The Cheetahs survived a late surge from the Bulls in Pretoria last Sunday to claim a thrilling 62–52 victory. This put Frans Steyn’s side in a strong position to secure a place in the semi-finals. 

A bonus-point win against their bogey side would put the Cheetahs in an excellent position to secure a home semi-final – something they have not achieved since 2023. That happen last when Boland’s coach Hawies Fourie was in charge of the Cheetahs.

The Cheetahs need to play to their strengths. Photo: Morgan Piek

However, Boland have certainly earned their reputation as the Cheetahs’ bogey side. The Cavaliers have beaten the Cheetahs in their last three meetings, including two victories in Wellington, while they also claimed a win in Bloemfontein during the first round of the SA Cup earlier this year.

Boland arrive in the Free State with plenty of confidence after fighting back to beat the Lions 38–29 in Johannesburg last week. That victory came after their shock defeat to the Sharks in Durban the previous weekend.

The Cavaliers will also take plenty of belief from their recent results, as well as a clear understanding of where they can hurt the Cheetahs.

For the hosts, there are two major areas that need attention following the victory over the Bulls – defence and discipline. The Cheetahs finished that match with just 13 players on the field, and the lapse in discipline nearly proved costly as the Bulls mounted a spirited comeback.

Against Boland, the Cheetahs know they cannot afford to take their foot off the pedal.

The Cavaliers are a side that refuse to go quietly, and with renewed confidence behind them, they are likely to test the Cheetahs right until the final whistle.

Zander du Plessis. Photo: Morgan Piek

For Steyn’s charges, the mindset has already shifted towards knockout rugby, with every point and every mistake potentially carrying greater weight as the competition reaches its business end.

Cheetahs captain Neels Volschenk told OFM Sport Sunday’s clash would be a proper test of their ability and character, with the home side determined to dictate proceedings rather than allow Boland to find their rhythm.

“No, definitely, like you’ve mentioned, they’ve had our number over the last couple of seasons, and if they get their tail up, they play an exceptional brand of rugby,” said Volschenk.

Daniel Maartens and Tielman Nieuwoudt. Photo: Morgan Piek

“So, I mean, for us it’s about being switched on and focused for a full 80-minute performance. You can’t have moments where you have a lapse of focus and control in the game, where they could get their tail up and throw the ball around, and then you’re going to have a difficult day at the office.”

Volschenk added returning home after three consecutive tough games on the road was a welcome boost, with the Cheetahs eager to make the most of home advantage and bank maximum points before next week’s trip to Nelspruit. Definitely, I think the fact that it’s at home obviously helps.

This game against Boland, and then the one against Pumas, it’s almost playoff games for us because it’s crucial we secure five points, obviously, this weekend, first against Boland.

“Obviously, it’s going to be a good test, and I feel where we lacked in the previous week against the Bulls, they’re going to expose that if we don’t fix it this week. So, it’s going to be a good challenge.”

With the semi-finals now firmly in sight, the Cheetahs know there is little room for error. Against a Boland side that has repeatedly caused them problems, discipline, concentration and consistency will be just as important as attacking flair.

Sunday’s crunch clash between the Cheetahs and Boland Cavaliers at the Toyota Stadium kicks off at 15:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek sm