The Suzuki Griquas edged the Cheetahs 41–38 in Kimberley, setting up an SA Cup final clash against the Pumas in Nelspruit. It was the second consecutive close defeat for the Cheetahs against their neighbours, having narrowly lost 31–29 the previous week in the same city during round nine of the competition.

While Free State suffered back-to-back defeats, their recent performances showed significant improvement. On Saturday, had the bounce of the ball gone their way, they might have been the ones booking a trip to the Lowveld.

Izak van der Westhuizen. Photo: Morgan Piek

The Cheetahs will now take a short break before shifting focus to their Currie Cup campaign, which includes a clash against Georgia in Bloemfontein.

There is also a change on the cards in the coaching setup. Forwards coach Izak van der Westhuizen has bid farewell to the team and will be succeeded by former Springbok and Stormers hooker, Tiaan Liebenberg.

Speaking to OFM Sport, Steyn expressed excitement about the fresh energy Liebenberg will bring to the side, and he looks forward to what will happen in the Currie Cup.

“Ja, Tiaan Liebenberg is also joining us, so it’ll be good to have another new voice in the group,” said Steyn.

“It is what it is. There are a lot of guys who are feeling down, and I’m sad for them too, because they really bought into the plan. They were all in over the last four weeks. If you look at how we played recently, it’s a massive difference from where we started. I’m looking forward to the Currie Cup. Let’s see what it brings.”

Steyn also paid tribute to Van der Westhuizen, calling him a true legend of Cheetahs rugby. He praised the coach for giving his all, right until the end.

Frans Steyn. Photo: Morgan Piek

“I think you could see the impact he had on the forwards today. He’s tough on them, but they definitely learned a lot from him,” Steyn added.

“You have to give him credit – to coach in a competition, knowing it might be your last with the Cheetahs, and still give your absolute best – that says a lot about him. He’s a real legend of Free State rugby.

“I take my hat off to him every day. He never held back. He kept working hard and gave everything for the Cheetahs. There really are no words to describe how grateful I am to Sakkie.”

Looking ahead, the Cheetahs will face the Griquas again in a warm-up game before their fixture against Georgia on 14 July in Bloemfontein. Their Currie Cup campaign kicks off on 27 July against the Boland Cavaliers in Wellington.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg