For the Cheetahs, a demanding stretch lies ahead. Their next four fixtures are all away from home – a test that could define their campaign. After a slightly inconsistent start, with two wins, one loss, and a no result, they currently sit fifth on the log with 13 points and will be keen to build some momentum.

Their journey begins in Welkom this weekend, where they face the Griffons in what promises to be a bruising Free State derby. Matches between these neighbours are seldom straightforward, and the Griffons are notoriously difficult to beat on their home patch. 

Cohen Jasper scored a hat-trick of tries against Eastern Province. Photo: Morgan Piek

The Purple People Eaters find themselves just behind the Cheetahs in sixth place on 10 points, having won two and lost two of their four opening matches.

Recent history suggests another tight encounter is on the cards. The last time these sides met in Welkom, the Griffons produced a late surge to edge the Cheetahs 36–33 in 2024. Even in Bloemfontein last year, the hosts were pushed all the way before eventually securing a hard-fought 38–31 victory.

There’s little doubt the Griffons will come out firing this weekend, eager to make a statement after their heavy 71–7 defeat to the Suzuki Griquas in Kimberley in round four. There is no doubt whatsoever that it will be a physical and bruising affair.

The Cheetahs, meanwhile, will take confidence from their convincing 51–19 win over Eastern Province in Bloemfontein. But they are under no illusions about the challenge awaiting them in Welkom – nothing will be handed to them, and they’ll need to front up physically and mentally to get the job done.

Captain Chucky van der Westhuizen believes the competitiveness of the SA Cup has reached new heights, pointing to recent results, such as SWD’s win against Boland in George, as proof that no team can be taken lightly. “Ja, 100% – the SA Cup is not easy anymore.”

Neels Volschenk captained the Cheetahs against the Griffons in the 2024 Toyota Challenge. Photo: Morgan Piek

“All the teams are improving, signing quality players, and working with top coaches. You can see the standard of rugby rising across the competition, and that’s good for South African rugby as a whole," said Van der Westhuizen.

“It’s a real feeding ground for the bigger unions. SWD are a quality side with a strong setup and a good coach, and playing them in George gives them that home-ground advantage. It won’t be easy, but our focus is on ourselves, our processes, and seeing how far we can go.”

Van der Westhuizen added the upcoming run of away fixtures – against the Griffons, SWD Eagles, Valke, and Border Bulldogs – will be a true test of the squad’s depth and resilience.

The forwards will have a big role to play in Welkom, and Tiaan Liebenberg will put them through their paces. Photo: Morgan Piek

“It’s going to be tough – we’ve got four away games in a row, and the travelling does take its toll,” he said.

“There will likely be some rotation in the squad after those long trips. But it’s in our hands, and we need to make the most of it.

“We believe we’re a quality side as well, and we won’t take that away from ourselves. Now it’s about making it happen and putting together a strong second half of the SA Cup,” Van der Westhuizen concluded.

The loose forward Neels Volschenk is expected to be the Cheetahs captain this week, while Dux Manyama, can make his return from concussion.

Saturday’s Free State derby between the Griffons and the Cheetahs at the DTI Stadium kicks off at 15:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek sm