The Cheetahs have enjoyed a mini-preseason to work on some of the issues they faced during the Currie Cup, particularly towards the end of the campaign. While they reached the semi-finals, they started to run out of steam, which was evident in the 25-5 defeat to the eventual champions, the Suzuki Griquas, in Kimberley.

Fitness, conditioning, and speed have received extra attention, as these aspects will be crucial when the team turns its focus to the EPCR Challenge Cup, which kicks off in December. Another key focus is attention to detail and getting the small things right, including speed at the breakdown, handling, and better decision-making.

Frans Steyn. Photo: Morgan Piek

Coach Frans Steyn told OFM Sport that it’s important to build on their Currie Cup performance, and after some tough sessions, the players and coaching staff are on the same page.

“Yes, look, I think we also learned some lessons – as coaches, we’re really trying to emphasise the smaller things much more,” said Steyn.

“The guys realised that last week. It was a tough week, but they worked hard, and the vibe within the squad is very good. We’ve got a few key areas we want to focus on this weekend, and hopefully, we can execute them well.”

While Black Lion boast at least 12 internationals in their squad, the Cheetahs are focused on their own game and what they want to achieve. Steyn added that everything the team does in the park must improve, and that’s where their attention lies.

“I think, for me, we’re really focusing on ourselves,” Steyn said. “When I say that, I mean we’re looking at what we’re doing and how we can do it better – our rucks, mauls, strike plays, handling, everything. 

“It’s about improving in the areas that matter to us and where we want to go in the long run. Hopefully, that will come together over the weekend.”

Cheetahs mauling against Georgia. Photo: Morgan Piek

Meanwhile, new signing Zander du Plessis is expected to make his debut from the bench this weekend. The former Griquas and Lions fly-half started training with the Cheetahs on Monday and has already made a strong impression.

Steyn said he’s pleased with what he’s seen so far, but a decision on Du Plessis’ role still needs to be finalised, as he can play as the backline marshal, at inside centre, or at fullback – much like Steyn himself did in his playing days.

“We had this discussion on Monday – we’ve got a lot of players who can cover multiple positions, which isn’t always easy for them,” Steyn said.

Zander du Plessis, when still at the Griquas. Photo: Morgan Piek

“It’s something we need to figure out, and hopefully, we can find the perfect position for him. He came in on Monday, straight into training, and he’s looking good - he just needed to get back into playing rugby.

“He’s a big guy, and I think we’ll enjoy having a stronger presence in the midfield, someone who can crash the ball when we need it, especially on overseas trips. But there’s still a long way to go. He needs to slot into the team with his personality and style, so hopefully everything goes well.”

Friday’s first game between the Cheetahs and Black Lion at the Toyota Stadium kicks off at 18:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh