After four rounds of action, the Cheetahs are the team to beat as they hold a narrow lead at the top of the log. But last year’s runners-up from Johannesburg pose a serious threat and, like most of the other teams, are still well in the mix for a home semi-final. 

Last week, the Cheetahs edged Western Province 31-24 in a hard-fought game, while the Lions pulled off an impressive 36-25 win over the Pumas in Nelspruit – no easy task.

Prince Nkabinde. Photo: Morgan Piek

The Cheetahs will again make a handful of changes to their line-up this week, thanks largely to the much-anticipated return of three backline players: Michael Annies, Munier Hartzenberg, and Prince Nkabinde.

That means a few in-form players will step aside to make room for the returning trio. Among them are the exciting Banie Britz, who has been in excellent form, and James Verity-Amm, who has impressed at fullback.

Cheetahs assistant coach Ruan Pienaar told OFM Sport that home advantage is crucial, especially against a side as settled and well-drilled as the Lions.

“It’s a big one. The Lions are a quality team and in such a short Currie Cup, you can’t afford to slip up – especially at home,” said the former Springbok.

“It’s really important to win your home games. They’ve played some brilliant rugby over the last few weeks, so it’s going to be a big challenge. But we’re always excited to play at home, and hopefully we can improve on our performance against Western Province.”

Pienaar admitted that discipline nearly cost the Cheetahs dearly against Province, and it’s something they’ve worked on this week. “We touched on it – in the last quarter of games, we’ve probably leaked more points than we’d like in situations where we were in control.

Munier Hartzenberg. Photo: Morgan Piek

“We’ve given away soft tries, which has put us under pressure and led to nervy finishes. That’s definitely something we’ve addressed.

“The Lions play at a high tempo for the full 80, so it’s going to be crucial to stay composed, play in the right areas of the field, and take our chances when they come. It’s going to be an exciting game. Both teams want to play an attacking brand of rugby, so I’m sure it’ll be a proper contest on Saturday.”

Kick-off between the Cheetahs and the Lions at the Toyota Stadium is at 14:00 on Saturday.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh