As the defending champions, the Griquas have their sights set on back-to-back titles — but first, they need to get past the Cheetahs this week and possibly again next week.

The Griffons could do them a big favour in Welkom on Saturday when they face the Pumas, which may help the Griquas finish at the top of the log.

Griquas lock Albert Liebenberg told OFM Sport that they’ll be throwing the kitchen sink at the Cheetahs.

“We’re ready – no motivation needed,” said the hard-working lock. “We’re up against Free State – it’s a derby, and we want to make a statement.

“This is the last round before the knockouts, and then it’s on to the semis and finals. But right now, our focus is on this match. It’s a big one for us, and we’re going in all guns blazing.

“We’re still hungry for the title – that’s the goal. But first, we need to put in a strong performance against the Free State. They’ll definitely bring the heat too. It’s always a tough battle up front, with plenty of pace at the back. But we’ll give it our best and deliver a solid performance.”

Marco de Witt. Photo: Morgan Piek

Co-captain Marco de Witt will miss the match due to injury and is expected to be sidelined for a few weeks. However, the Griquas’ depth, particularly in the loose-forward department, ensures they remain a formidable force.

De Witt also believes the derby will be a humdinger, with both sides using the opportunity to build momentum ahead of the semi-finals. “Yes, it’s always exciting playing against the Cheetahs,” said De Witt, whose absence will certainly be felt.

“Our last few games were away, so it’s great to be back in the City of Diamonds and playing in front of our home crowd.

“We know the Cheetahs are a top-quality side, and we expect nothing less than their full effort, but that’s what we’ve been preparing for all week. With the semi-finals next week, both teams will be looking to build confidence, and that’s what we’ll be playing for.

“It’s going to be an amazing game.”

Saturday’s clash between the old rivals at Suzuki Stadium kicks off at 15:00.

Griquas - 15 Cameron Hufke, 14 Dylan Maart, 13 Mnombo Zwelendaba, 12 Tertius Kruger, 11 Gurswin Wehr, 10 George Whitehead (captain), 9 Thomas Bursey, 8 Gustav Erlank, 7 Phumzile Maqondwana, 6 Thabo Ndimande, 5 Albert Liebenberg, 4 Dylan Sjöblom, 3 Cebo Dlamini, 2 Janco Uys, 1 Corné Lavagna

Replacements - 16 Gustav du Rand, 17 Leon Lyons, 18 Ntobelo Shezi, 19 Athenkosi Khethani, 20 Stephan Smit, 21 Bobby Alexander, 22 Tylor Sefoor, 22 Zane Bester

Cheetahs - TBA

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg