The Elephants head into the clash with confidence, having beaten the Griffons during the SA Cup earlier this year. That said, they’ll be mindful of their last visit to Welkom, where they were handed a 66–34 defeat by the Purple People Eaters.

For EP, this is a golden opportunity – and they’ll be determined to cause an upset.

Former Springbok coach and current EP tactician, Allister Coetzee, told OFM Sport that while it will be a tough outing, his side is backing themselves.

Eastern Province Rugby

“Yes, it’s a great opportunity for us this weekend, playing in a semi-final,” said Coetzee.

“We’re definitely the underdogs in this one. The Griffons have been on a strong run of form in the First Division, so we know it won’t be easy.

“We’ve prepared well. They’ve got a powerful forward pack and dangerous outside backs who can punish you in broken play. But like I said, it’s one shot – one chance.”

Saturday’s semi-final at the Down Touch Investments Stadium in Welkom kicks off at 15:00.

Coetzee added that this is what the team has been building towards all season, and getting the detail right will be key.

“It’s a semi-final, and we’ve worked hard to be here. We’ve got our captain back, and we’re really looking forward to this one,” the former Stormers coach added.

“It would be fantastic for EP to reach a final. That’s what the players play for – to compete for silverware.

“But yes, we have to be accurate on the day and make sure we nail the detail against a very good Griffons outfit.”

At the same time on Saturday, over at Barnard Stadium in Kempton Park, the log-leading Valke will be up against the Leopards in the other semi-final.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg