The Cheetahs are already in the semi-finals and will need to win their two remaining games in order to finish at the top of the standings. This can secure the Cheetahs a possible home final. 

The Pumas in their turn are still fighting for one of the two remaining spots in the semi-finals along with the Griquas and Sharks.

The Pumas outside back, Tapiwa Mafura, who will be returning to the Cheetahs told OFM Sport that it’s an important game.

“It's a very big one,” said the fleet-footed outside back.

“We really need the win to secure our semi-final spot and the Cheetahs are in the semis already, so I think that it's a more important game for us.

“We are looking forward to taking the five-points, but it's not going to be easy because the Cheetahs are a very good team and they will be looking to bounce back from their defeat to the Griquas.”

The last time the Pumas and Cheetahs met, the team from the Free State claimed a hard-fought 28-17 win at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit.

The Pumas are currently 5th in the standings on 22 points, and trail the 4th placed Sharks by two points.

Friday’s game at the Toyota Stadium kicks off at 18:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport