A win for the Free State will almost secure them of their spot in the semi-finals, with only the Border Bulldogs to face.

Province in their turn are unbeaten, however, they will have to deal with the third-placed Boland Cavaliers next weekend.

The Free State captain, Jasper Wiese, told OFM Sport that there is a lot to play for this week.

“Province is a quality side and they shouldn’t be underestimated at all,” said the fiery loose forward.

“Anyone of the two sides can win it on the day. We have been preparing quite well for them but I don’t think that we must give them any more respect than what they deserve.

“We must just prepare well and focus on our stuff, and not too much on their game. I think that if we do that we should be fine.

“We have a really good chance and the team is ready. We must just go and do the job this weekend.”

Meanwhile, neither hooker Elandré Huggett nor the flyhalf, Ernst Stapelberg, will be available for the match. The pair’s contracts with the union have come to an end. Huggett is looking to continue his career elsewhere, while Stapelberg is done with the game. He will be returning to his native Port Elizabeth in order to work in the family business.

Another player not available for the Free State anymore and also heading to PE is the prop, Cameron Dawson, who has signed a lucrative contract with the Southern Kings.

Sunday afternoons’ game at the Wolfson Stadium kicks off at 12:30.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport