The Griquas have already locked in a home semi-final, regardless of the outcome on Friday. They head to Bloemfontein with nothing to lose after going unbeaten through the first eight rounds – the only side to do so – and will be keen to keep that perfect run intact.

That said, it’s a tricky assignment for the defending Currie Cup champions. The Cheetahs are a wounded side with everything on the line, and desperation can be a dangerous weapon. 

Their survival in the top tier effectively hinges on beating the Griquas. A defeat would all but condemn them to the Currie Cup First Division this season – a setback that will carry serious long-term consequences.

For Griquas, the focus will be twofold: maintaining momentum heading into the semi-finals and potentially the final, while also managing their squad smartly. 

At this stage of the competition, avoiding injuries to key players is just as important as the result itself. Fortunately for them, their depth has been a standout feature all season – so much so that even with wholesale changes, they remain a threat to any side on their day.

One thing is certain – the Griquas won’t be handing out any favours. If the Cheetahs want to keep their Currie Cup hopes alive, they’ll have to earn it the hard way.

Gustav Erlank. Photo: Morgan Piek

Last weekend, the Griquas underlined their class with a commanding 62–12 win over the SWD Eagles in Kimberley. It wasn’t all smooth sailing, though, as they had to claw their way back from a 12–0 deficit inside the opening 15 minutes.

Captain Albert Liebenberg praised his side’s composure and fighting spirit after the match.

“Firstly, well done to SWD – what a game, they really brought it,” Liebenberg told OFM Sport.

Dylan Maart. Photo: Morgan Piek

“The first 20 minutes showed it was always going to be a battle, but we worked our way back and finished well. To end top of the log with one game still to play is pleasing, but there’s still a job to do.”

He added that the team’s ability to stay calm under pressure has been built through experience, and panic is simply not a part of their DNA.

“We’ve often had to play as the underdogs in the Currie Cup, finding ourselves on the back foot, but we’ve been in those situations before and know how to respond,” he said.

Mnombo Zwelendaba. Photo: Morgan Piek

“The leadership group steps up, we regroup, and then we push forward together.”

Looking ahead to the Free State derby, Liebenberg acknowledged the challenge that awaits, and they understand that the Cheetahs are in a tight spot, but they also have their own ambitions and interests to look after.

“It’s always a big one against the Cheetahs and we’re really looking forward to it – it’s going to be a battle,” he said.

“SWD gave us good preparation because they play a similar style, and we’ve got strong depth in the squad. We want to keep building momentum heading into the semi-finals and final – no dip, just keep rising.”

Friday’s derby between the Cheetahs and the Griquas at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein is set to kick off at 18:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvs