After a tough start, the Cheetahs managed to book their spot in the Currie Cup and reached the semi-finals of the SA Cup, only to fall just short. 

They lost a nail-biting semi-final 41-38 to the Suzuki Griquas in Kimberley, in yet another game they could have won had the bounce of the ball gone their way. The team entered the SA Cup without any warm-up matches, but for the Currie Cup, they’ll carry momentum from their recent campaign, along with preparation games lined up against the Griquas and the Georgian national team.

George Lourens. Photo: Morgan Piek

Flyhalf George Lourens, arguably the most improved player over the past month or so, told OFM Sport that the team’s character really came through, and they’ll draw confidence from that.

“The start of the season was really tough, for everyone, from management to players,” said Lourens.
“With new management coming in, players weren’t exactly sure where we wanted to be. And don’t forget about the injuries, we almost had to pull Ruan Pienaar out of retirement to cover the backline!

“It was a difficult beginning, but we built on things game by game. After a few early losses, there was a stage where we thought we might not even qualify for the Currie Cup. That would have meant the end of most of our jobs.

“So the boys made a big turnaround halfway through the season. We’re not completely satisfied with where we finished, but we’re proud of the growth we showed throughout the campaign.”

At this stage, Lourens looks set to be the first-choice flyhalf for the Currie Cup, though Ethan Wentzel is expected to return from injury, and Namibian international Tiaan Swanepoel, who recently made his debut, is also in the mix for the backline general role.

Lourens added that while competition is vital, consistent game time is just as important for personal development.

Ethan Wentzel. Photo: Morgan Piek

“That’s the thing, you need to play consistently. Not just one game here and there. If you get a run of games, that’s when you build momentum. It’s always difficult when you’re in and out of the team,” he said.

“I’ve been here, like you said, for four years now. So I’ve managed to get a few games under the belt. I’ve got some experience, but you still need form, and the only way to get form is by playing.

“By the end of the season, things started falling into place. I’m happy with how we finished overall. But, like I said, the guys are coming back from injury, and I just want to compete. I think it’s going to be a really good challenge.”

The Cheetahs are set to face Georgia in Bloemfontein on 12 July, followed by a clash against the Boland Cavaliers a week later in the opening round of the Currie Cup.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh