While the result matters little in pre-season, the defending Currie Cup champions powered their way to a 63–26 victory. It was a fiery affair at times, with tempers flaring and a red card adding to the drama. 

The final 30 minutes, in particular, descended into something of a scrap rather than a structured contest – more dogfight than dress rehearsal. That said, there were positives to take for both camps.

Sako Makata. Photo: Morgan Piek

For the Griquas, there are still three weeks to fine-tune combinations and iron out inconsistencies before they launch their bid to reclaim the SA Cup title they conceded to the Pumas. The Griffons, meanwhile, fielded a very young side that showed flashes of real promise. 

At scrum time, they often had the upper hand, and when they held onto possession, they played some enterprising rugby. Fitness and cohesion will need attention, but they too have time to tidy up the work-ons before facing the defending champions, the Pumas, in their next warm-up.

‘Win came at a cost’

For the Purple People Eaters, however, the win came at a cost. Newly signed lock/flanker Sergio Moreira – formerly part of the Portuguese national setup – suffered what appears to be a serious ankle injury in the second half. 

The former Cheetahs forward had been immense up to that point, carrying strongly and imposing himself physically despite his side spending long spells on the back foot.

Following the hard-fought battle in Welkom, Griquas head coach Pieter Bergh told OFM Sport while there were encouraging signs, his side is far from the finished product.

“Ja, I think there are a lot of positives. As you say, it’s not about the result today – it’s about the performance and the things we’ve worked on during pre-season, and seeing how we can execute that in a game situation.

“I thought there were lapses in concentration. We conceded two tries in about two or three minutes, then we controlled the game for 20 minutes, and again had a two- or three-minute spell where we conceded three penalties and put ourselves under pressure. So there’s definitely a lot of learning still to do.

Connor Mahoney and Caleb Abrahams. Photo: Morgan Piek

“I think we were very good on attack. What we’re creating there is very positive, and I believe our defensive structure is in place. But our set piece needs work. I’m not happy with where our scrum is at, and I’m not happy with our maul defence. 

“We conceded too many maul penalties and maul tries today, and two more last week against the Leopards. That’s a big focus area for us.

“Part of that comes down to not having all our forwards available. We’ve had a number of guys out on loan and a few injuries, including Derek Pretorius and Malembe Mpofu – that’s two locks – which makes live scrumming and proper maul defence sessions difficult.”

Sergio Moreira. Photo: Morgan Piek

“Hopefully over the next two weeks, we can spend quality time on those areas and make sure we’re ready for week one of the SA Cup.”

Although the Griquas walked away with the scoreboard in their favour, it was arguably the Griffons who won the physical exchanges. The visitors wanted a proper test before the real business begins - and they certainly got one in Welkom.

The Griquas will kick off their SA Cup campaign on 7 March against the Leopards at the Suzuki Stadium in Kimberley.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg