Thomas, who started against his former side, and Smal, who made an impact off the bench, were both instrumental in the commanding 57–10 victory over the Purple People Eaters. The towering Thomas was outstanding in the lineouts - not only securing clean ball on the Cheetahs’ throw-ins, but also disrupting the Griffons’ possession. 

He added real value around the park with his surprising mobility and was rock-solid on defence.

Smal, meanwhile, played with the energy of a loose forward. He was lively in open play, accurate with his lineout throws, and capped off a fine performance by scoring his first try in the orange jersey.

Curtly Thomas. Photo: Morgan Piek

Liebenberg lauded Thomas for the work he has put in since making the move from the Griffons less than a year ago, while also backing Smal as a player with a bright future.

“It’s incredible how a guy who stands at around 2.08 metres can move the way he does,” said Liebenberg.

“He gets around the park really well. We’ve worked hard on his fitness and his lineouts, and you can see the improvement in his game every week.

“I knew Smal was a quality player from the first time I saw him at school at Paarl Boys’ High, and I was really pleased when we managed to bring him to the Cheetahs.

“He’s an outstanding player who doesn’t make many mistakes. I always joke that if he were a bit taller, he’d be in the Bok squad, because he’s that kind of talent. We’re very fortunate to have him, and it’s great to see him coming through the ranks and performing so well.

“I also have to commend the senior players for the role they’ve played. They’ve really taken him under their wing and put in a lot of work with him. There’s great cohesion in the squad at the moment – the guys genuinely care for each other, and that’s fantastic to see as a coach.”

Juan Smal. Photo: Morgan Piek

A former Springbok and Stormers hooker known for his pinpoint lineout throwing, Liebenberg added that Smal’s accuracy in this department is exactly what the Cheetahs were looking for.

“When we were looking for another hooker, lineout throwing was a key focus for us,” he said.

“The feedback we got during our due diligence was that it’s one of his biggest strengths, and that stood out. Since joining us, he’s settled in quickly – understanding the lineouts, the timing – and he rarely misses.

Juan Smal. Photo: Morgan Piek

“He’s very coachable too. You can give him feedback in training and he applies it immediately on the field, which is exactly what you want as a coach.”

Both players are expected to feature again for the Cheetahs when they face the SWD Eagles in George on Saturday in round six of the SA Cup.

Kick-off at Outeniqua Park is at 15:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek sm