Despite being confident heading into the knockout clash, the Griffons remain mindful of their previous encounter against EP in the SA Cup, where they came up short in Gqeberha – a loss that ultimately proved costly. 

While they bounced back with a convincing 66–34 home win over the Elephants in Welkom, their focus has now shifted to securing a place in the final as they look to finish their season on a high.

Christopher Hollis. Photo: Morgan Piek

The Purple People Eaters are focusing on their own game and know they’ll need to be sharp across all areas of play.

Experienced and hard-running centre Christopher Hollis told OFM Sport that Saturday’s semi-final will come down to which team wants it more, as both sides are hungry for silverware.

“Towards the end of the SA Cup, we struggled a bit with our form and went through a bit of a rough patch,” said Hollis.

“At the start of the Currie Cup, we also battled a bit as well. The Valke beat us at home. Then we played Eastern Province early in the competition with a bit of a point to prove after the Gqeberha result.

“The guys stepped up, played some good rugby, and this weekend we’re feeling confident.”

Hollis added that the Griffons will look to use their home ground advantage and apply early pressure to Allister Coetzee’s team as they look to build momentum for a possible final.

“We’ve got the home crowd behind us, and the guys are looking expansive and creative,” said Hollis, who hails from the Eastern Cape and was schooled in Gqeberha.

Curtly Thomas played his 50th game for the Griffons earlier in the season. Photo: Morgan Piek

“That said, we know EP have a lot to offer and they’ll be just as desperate to win the trophy as we are.

“For us, we’re confident – but at the end of the day, it’s about who wants it more. In these playoff games, it’s not always about talent – it’s about intensity and who’s willing to give that little bit extra.”

Saturday’s semi-final at the Down Touch Investments Stadium kicks off at 15:00. At the same time, over at the Barnard Stadium in Kempton Park, the log-leading Valke will tackle the Leopards in the other semi-final.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg