The Pumas defied all odds after reaching the championship match after beating the 14-man Sharks on Saturday evening at Kings’ Park in Durban.

The Pumas defence in the latter stages of the game was simply outstanding. This will no doubt give them a lot of confidence heading into the final against the team they famously beat in the semi-final last year.

This after the team snuck into the playoffs after regaining their winning ways on the back for four straight defeats.

The coach Jimmy Stonehouse said reaching the final remains something truly special, while adding that they are ready to defend their title home or away.

“I'm very proud of these kids, should I say men,” said a very happy Stonehouse.

“They're just amazing and they have fought week-after-week. We don't have the depth to change players and they just keep on going, and it's amazing to see the way fought out there tonight.

“We just hit them back over-and-over again, and that's pure heart and belief.

“We've got the belief to win, and it doesn't matter if it's home or away.”

The Pumas do have a nervous wait on the availability of their captain, Shane Kirkwood, who took a knockout during the final play of the match in Durban.

Kick-off for Saturday’s big final between the Cheetahs and Pumas at the Toyota Stadium is set for 16:00.

Scorers:

Sharks: Tries - Corné Rahl, Fez Mbatha Conv. - Lionel Cronjé 2 Pen. – Cronjé 2

Pumas: Tries - Corné Fourie, Simon Raw, Andrew Kota, PJ Jacobs Conv. - Tinus de Beer 3

Morgan Piek OFM Sport