While it will be tough, it’s a golden opportunity to set the record straight with a strong start.

The Purple People Eaters find themselves back in the First Division after failing to qualify for the Premier Division. This follows a disappointing end to their SA Cup campaign, which had initially shown great promise. At one stage, the Griffons were serious contenders for a semi-final spot, but things fell apart late in the competition, costing them both their playoff hopes and their top-tier status.

The last time the Griffons faced the East Rand outfit, they squandered a big half-time lead and went down 45–40 in the SA Cup in Kempton Park – a result that marked the start of their downward spiral. That defeat ultimately ended their bid for the playoffs and a place in the Premier Division.

Willem van den Hever. Photo: Morgan Piek

Speaking to OFM Sport, Griffons hooker Willem van den Hever said the team has put the SA Cup disappointment behind them and are just eager to get back onto the park.

“Ja, look, the SA Cup was definitely a tough one, and I think we’re more disappointed in ourselves than anything else,” said the former Maties front-ranker.

“We started the tournament strongly, but unfortunately we couldn’t maintain that momentum. There were moments where we gave away soft points, and when we needed to capitalise, we just couldn’t. But that’s in the past now.

“Our focus is now 100% on the First Division. It’s a privilege to play rugby – something we sometimes take for granted – and I want to enjoy every moment of it.”

Looking ahead to Saturday’s fixture against the Valke, Van den Hever added they are expecting a tough and hard game against a well-coached side, but it’s all about sticking to their plans and structures.

“We’re up against the Falcons at home, and I think it’s going to be a great clash. Coach JP Immelman is a quality coach – his side will definitely be well-prepared. 

Duan Pretorius. Photo: Morgan Piek

“We know what to expect, especially after that SA Cup game against them. It was a real game of two halves. We dominated the first half, but in the second, they turned it around and we just couldn’t stop them.

“We’ve worked really hard these past few weeks. Now it’s just about sticking to our structures, doing our jobs, and then the results will follow. I’m excited to be back on the field and we’ll take it game by game from here.”

Saturday afternoon’s clash at the Down Touch Investments Stadium in Welkom kicks off at 15:00. Elsewhere, the Leopards will host the Border Bulldogs at Olën Park in Potchefstroom, while in Gqeberha, the Eastern Province Elephants will take on the SWD Eagles at the Madibaz Stadium. Both of these matches will also kick off at 15:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg