The side from Potchefstroom is still searching for its first win of the season. While they went down 64–7 to the Toyota Cheetahs at home last week, there were encouraging signs – particularly a much-improved defensive effort in the second half.

The North West outfit currently sits at the foot of the log, but their campaign has opened with two daunting assignments. 

Heavy defeats to the Suzuki Griquas – including a 101–7 loss in Kimberley and a 57-point defeat to the Free State at Olën Park – underline the challenge they’ve faced early on.

Riaan van Straten. Photo: Morgan Piek

Travelling to Welkom to take on the Griffons in their own backyard will be no easy task. However, it presents another valuable opportunity for the Leopards to test themselves against strong opposition before heading into a crucial block of fixtures against teams they are more likely to battle in the Currie Cup First Division later in the season.

Matches between the Leopards and Griffons are steeped in history and rarely lack intensity, with this long-standing rivalry often producing fiery, hard-fought encounters.

Leopards coach Riaan van Straten told OFM Sport the focus remains firmly on refining their systems and delivering a full 80-minute performance against the Purple People Eaters.

“We can’t chase outcomes if the process isn’t in place. Right now, our focus is firmly on getting those processes right and making sure we execute them consistently,” said Van Straten.

“The first few games were against two of the stronger teams in the competition. Those matches really tested our systems, but they also highlighted where we’re vulnerable – especially in terms of losing the ball too easily. There’s a big focus for us now on ball retention and building phases.”

Van Straten added that while the team has shown glimpses of its potential, consistency remains key. “We’ve shown glimpses of what we’re capable of and how we can exploit teams, but it comes down to holding onto possession and applying pressure over time.

Divan Pieters seen tackling Jooste Nel. Photo: Morgan Piek

“Against the Cheetahs, I thought our middle 40 minutes were particularly strong. We made things difficult for them and showed real intent on defence. Now it’s about maintaining that level for the full 80 minutes - that’s the standard we’re aiming for,” said Van Straten.

He emphasised the clash against the Griffons will be anything but straightforward, especially given last season’s results.

“The Griffons clash is always a big one – it’s an age-old rivalry and never an easy game. But the results from last year weren’t good enough, and that’s something we need to fix.

The Blitzbok Noegh Hayward and Brandon Keevy. Photo: Morgan Piek

“We’re sticking to our processes and trusting that if we get those right, the results will follow. There’s a sense that we’re building momentum, and that’s important as we head into the next phase of the SA Cup against teams we’ll be competing with later in the year.

“It’s going to be tough, but we’re ready for the challenge.”

Saturday’s match at the DTI Stadium kicks off at 15:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek sm