It’s a pivotal week in the competition, with results likely to start shaping a clearer picture of the top four as the tournament moves past the halfway mark.

For the Purple People Eaters, this is a golden opportunity to show they are far better than the side that slumped to a 71–7 defeat against the Suzuki Griquas in Kimberley. They’ve also built a reputation for punching above their weight against their bigger neighbours from Bloemfontein.

It remains to be seen whether the rock-solid flyhalf and captain, Duan Pretorius, who has led the team more than 100 times, will be fit after taking a heavy knock against the Boland Cavaliers a few weeks ago. He has been training and could make a return after missing out against the Leopards and Griquas.

Be that as it may, the Griffons are always fired up for clashes against the Cheetahs, and the recent history between the sides proves it. In 2024, the Griffons stunned the Cheetahs with a 36–33 win in Welkom, while last year they pushed hard before going down 38–31 in Bloemfontein.

George Lourens, Duan Pretorius, and Prince Nkabinde. Photo: Morgan Piek

The powerful inside centre, Jandré de Beer, who has captained the side in Pretorius’ absence, told OFM Sport it’s a fixture that needs no extra motivation.

“Yes, for us it’s always a big one, and I think we are well prepared. We’re coming off a proper defeat to the Griquas in the last round, and we’ve used this week to fix things. Hopefully, we can apply that this weekend.”

“The Cheetahs are a team that plays at a high tempo and have a strong skill set in the set piece – it’s never easy here in Welkom.

“I think both teams are aware of what’s at stake and will want to go out and prove a point. For us, it’s about playing for the full 80 minutes and focusing on what we do well.”

Tighthead prop Justin Forwood, who previously played for the Cheetahs and now represents the Griffons, told OFM Sport they are relishing the chance to measure themselves against top opposition as they chase a return to the Currie Cup Premier Division after losing their status last year.

Justin Forwood. Photo: Morgan Piek

“This weekend is going to be a tough battle. I think all the Griffons boys know what’s at stake – we have to finish in the top four of the SA Cup to qualify for the Currie Cup Premier Division,” said Forwood.

“It’s going to be a physical contest, and we need to dominate the set pieces and execute our attacking plan. Our past performances haven’t been great, and there’s a lot we need to improve on.

“For us, it’s about focusing on ourselves, our plan, and our execution. That said, the boys are up for it, and we’re all looking forward to a big game.”

Saturday’s  eagerly anticipated Free State derby at the DTI Stadium in Welkom kicks off at 15:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg