The favourites to host SA Cup final after defeating Airlink Pumas
In an exhilarating back-and-forth tussle between SA Cup frontrunners Suzuki Griquas and the Airlink Pumas, the team from Kimberley managed to snatch a late victory in their game and cemented their spot at the top of the log.
With two rounds remaining, this 31-26 victory put the Griquas on the inside lane to host a home final.
The match in Kimberley on Friday afternoon was a thrilling encounter, and the Griquas staged a dramatic comeback to snatch victory in the 81st minute from the visitors from Mbombela.
The match kicked off with an early try from the Pumas within five minutes of the game. The first half largely favoured the visitors, who led 16-3 just before half-time. However, a timely try right before the break injected hope into the hosts’ camp.
A rejuvenated Griquas side dominated the second half, taking the lead 17-16 on the 57th minute mark. Yet their advantage was short-lived as the Pumas quickly reclaimed the lead.
The hosts found themselves trailing by two points with time up on the clock, but a remarkable try by Cameron Hufke sealed the victory and secured the top spot.
The Griquas remain the log leaders with 35 points and a points difference of 360. The Pumas are second on 31 points with a points difference of 330.
The Pumas will face the Sanlam Boland Kavaliers at Mbombela Stadium at 19:00 on Friday, and the NovaVit Griffons, also at home, on May 17 at 19:00, in their two remaining matches.
The Griquas face the Phangela SWD Eagles on Saturday, and the Toyota Cheetahs the following Saturday. The SA Cup final will be contested between the two top teams on the log, with the side in first place having home ground advantage. With two rounds of matches to go, the Griquas and Pumas are the favourites to play in the final. But the Griffons and the Cheetahs are not out of the race yet.