Over the weekend, the Cheetahs ran riot in Bloemfontein, thrashing the Border Bulldogs 106–7 to seal their advancement. Eastern Province’s 20–14 victory over the Griffons further helped the Cheetahs’ cause, and may now see the Welkom-based side miss out on qualification.

While it’s still mathematically possible for the Cheetahs to secure a home semi-final, it would take something close to a miracle this coming weekend when they travel to Kimberley to take on the Griquas.

Tiaan Swanepoel. Photo: Morgan Piek

To finish second on the log, the Cheetahs would need to beat the Griquas by a margin of 36 points or more, while also ensuring the hosts don’t earn a single log point from the match.

As it stands, the Cheetahs are most likely to return to Kimberley next week for a potential semi-final showdown against their old rivals.

Cheetahs head coach Frans Steyn told OFM Sport that the team isn’t concerned about securing a home semi-final or final – the bigger picture is building towards the Currie Cup later this year.

“Let’s start here … scoring 100 points in a match is not easy – let’s just say that,” Steyn said.

“So I’m happy with the way the guys played. If they come to me on Monday and say they just enjoyed it and played their hearts out, then that’s fine – I don’t have a problem with that.

“But there are still areas we need to improve on if we want to beat the Griquas in Kimberley.

“I’m not worried about a home semi-final or final – that’s not the priority.

Marco Janse van Vuren. Photo: Morgan Piek

“If we stick to our processes, focus on what we want to achieve, and continue building towards our bigger goals, then we’ve got to give it our best against the Griquas.

“There’s a tough week of preparation ahead because we know the threat they pose. And really, when last did we win in Kimberley?”

On Saturday at 15:00, the Griquas will host the Cheetahs at the Suzuki Stadium in Kimberley in the eagerly anticipated derby.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg