The Griquas booked their spot in the decider for the first time since 2022 with a 25-5 victory over the Toyota Cheetahs in Kimberley. While the scoreline suggested a comfortable 20-point win, the contest was far tighter. 

Had the visitors from Bloemfontein capitalised on their entries into the 22, the clash at Suzuki Stadium could have been a very different affair.

Credit must go to the Griquas’ defence, which was outstanding in the semi-final, and was instrumental in the Free State being unable to convert chances into points. That pleased Bergh, who will coach the Peacock Blues in a Currie Cup final for the second time since taking charge.

Griquas defending a Cheetahs maul in the semi-final. Photo: Morgan Piek

The Griquas’ most recent outing against the Lions at Ellis Park ended in a heavy 37-7 defeat, denying them a home final in Kimberley. The result is still fresh in the memory, and as underdogs this weekend, the Griquas will be determined to prove a point against the star-studded Lions.

Bergh told OFM Sport their main focus ahead of the final will be on sharpening their set-piece, though he was delighted with the defensive effort against the Cheetahs.

“I wasn’t quite happy with the performance.”

“I told the guys at half-time that if we fixed our lineout, it could become a good day for us. We struggled, losing five or six lineouts in the first half, which made it difficult to build momentum.

“We talk a lot about how our attack or our set-piece won’t always click, but our defence can always function. Today was probably our best defensive effort of the season. 

“The dominant tackles, the scramble defence, and conceding only one try against a confident Cheetahs side should give us belief going into the final, because we’ll need that same intensity against the Lions.”

Tom Nel and Gurwin Wehr tackling Prince Nkabinde. Photo: Morgan Piek

A key factor in the Griquas’ success this season has been consistency in selection and a relatively clean injury slate. Bergh is known for sticking to what works, and it’s unlikely he will tinker with the team for the final.

Bergh will confirm his matchday 23 later this week, and it will come as a surprise if he deviates from his tried and trusted modus operandi now.

Saturday’s Currie Cup final between the Lions and the Griquas kicks off at 15:00 at Ellis Park.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg