It’s a game the seven-time Currie Cup champions simply have to win – and ideally with a bonus point. There’s no room for negotiation. 

The Cheetahs are staring down the barrel of failing to qualify for the 2026 Currie Cup, following last week’s shock defeat to the Valke in Kempton Park – a result that has sparked widespread reaction. The hope, however, is that it serves as the wake-up call the side needs to start delivering on its potential.

Traditionally, the Cheetahs have produced their best rugby when their backs are against the wall, and few situations have been as dire as this. Dropping into the Currie Cup First Division is simply not an option – particularly amid speculation that a return to the United Rugby Championship is being discussed at a high level.

Head coach Frans Steyn told OFM Sport the team has dug itself into a deep hole, and it’s now up to them to fight their way out and safeguard the future of Free State rugby.

“It’s definitely not what we expected. We need to look at ourselves, as coaches and in our planning. It felt like we ran out of legs in the second half,” said Steyn.

“What we do during the week and how we prepare needs to give us the best possible chance over the next two weeks.”

Frans Steyn. Photo: Morgan Piek

While the Cheetahs may need a favour or two from the Griquas and Pumas, their fate remains largely in their own hands, with ten crucial log points still up for grabs. Steyn stressed the focus must now be on execution.

“We need to stay positive and control what we can. We’ll come in every day, work hard, and give everything – and if it doesn’t work out, we’ll know we gave our all.

“Everyone here – the players, the coaches, all the staff – will do our best over the next two weeks.

“Questioning the players’ commitment isn’t fair. The week before, they put in a massive shift against SWD, coming back from a 7- to 10-point deficit under tough conditions.

Juan Smal, Tiaan Liebenberg and Ramon Uys. Photo: Morgan Piek

“It’s our job as coaches to fix this – and we will fix it.”

The Cheetahs are expected to field their strongest possible side for the trip to East London, as they look to return to Bloemfontein with a vital result ahead of next week’s crunch derby against the Currie Cup champions, the Griquas.

Saturday’s match at Sisa Dukashe Stadium kicks off at 15:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek sm