After fighting their way into the playoffs, the Leopards will relish the opportunity to upset the competition’s top-ranked side on their home turf. Riaan van Straten’s men have built a reputation for grit and determination this season, qualities that were on full display in their decisive final-round victory over Border in Mdantsane. 

That hard-earned three-point triumph proved to be the difference, lifting the Leopards into fourth place on the log and knocking the defending champions, the Griffons, out of the play-off race. It was a fitting reward for a side that refused to give up despite facing pressure throughout the league phase.

Jandré Burger. Photo: Morgan Piek

Now the North West outfit stands just 80 minutes away from a place in the final. The challenge, however, could hardly be tougher.

The Eagles finished at the top of the standings with 22 points after five rounds and have been one of the standout teams in this year’s competition. 

Although they suffered a thrilling 52-45 defeat to Eastern Province in their final league match, the George-based side had already done enough to secure the top spot and home-ground advantage.

Riaan van Straten. Photo: Morgan Piek

Former Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer has transformed SWD into one of the most organised and dangerous teams in the First Division, with their expansive attack and physical edge making them formidable opponents.

The Leopards, though, have already shown they thrive when the odds are stacked against them. Their resilience, disciplined defence and ability to grind out results have carried them into the semi-finals, and they will back themselves to produce another upset on Saturday.

Victory in George would cap a remarkable late-season surge and send the Leopards into the Currie Cup First Division final with plenty of confidence.

Heyneke Meyer. Photo: Morgan Piek

The other semi-final will see Allister Coetzee’s Eastern Province hosting the Valke in Gqeberha.

Both of Saturday’s semi-finals will kick off at 15:00.

SWD Eagles - TBC

Leopards - 15 Noegh Hayward, 14 Sino Tshontyi, 13 Indiphile Tyeda, 12 Brandon Keevy, 11 Naiden Jaarts, 10 Jandré Burger, 9 Daimon O’Connell, 8 Adri Kermis, 7 Godfrey Sebokolodi, 6 Ricardo Fourie, 5 Babalo Makana, 4 Schalk van Schalkwyk, 3 Munashe Mhere, 2 Jason Alexander (captain), 1 Tatenda Chayayi

Replacements - 16 Liyema Mgwigwi, 17 Aletwa Buthelezi, 18 Rouwan Mitchell, 19 Gcino Mdletshe, 20 Arminn Posthumus, 21 Guhan du Bois, 22 Zack Serfontein, 23 Luyolo Doyi

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh