GRIQUAS MUST TOPPLE TOP-DOGS
AS THE Currie Cup draws ever closer to its critical stages, the Windhoek Draught Griquas find themselves in a delicate position, currently sitting in fifth place with 28 points on the table after 11 rounds of intense rugby action.
With must-win games looming ahead, the Griquas are fully aware that their chances of securing a play-off spot heavily depend on their performance in the upcoming matches. Tomorrow, they face the formidable Toyota Cheetahs XV, who currently hold the top spot on the log with 38 points.
The Griquas have had a mixed season so far, securing six wins along with five losses. Their most recent triumph came in an impressive away victory against the Griffons, where they flexed their muscles and claimed a convincing 47-21 win and a bonus point for their effort.
This victory not only kept their slim Currie Cup semi-final hopes alive but also boosted their confidence heading into the challenging encounter against the Cheetahs.
Griquas assistant coach Barend Pieterse told the DFA as much when he said that their last three games are very important for the Griquas camp.
“The log currently is very tight, and a loss would mean that it would be very difficult to keep our hopes alive for any sort of playoffs. This game is vital for us, and so are the next three matches,” said Pieterse.
The Griquas are well aware of what awaits them in Bloemfontein tomorrow, as they have vivid memories of their previous encounter with the Cheetahs in this year's Currie Cup.
The Cheetahs proved their strength and clinical precision, dominating the Griquas with a comprehensive 42-19 bonus-point victory in the season-opener.
On that occasion, veteran midfielder Frans Steyn showcased his skills by pinning the Griquas deep in their own 22 with his expertly executed long range kicks. The Griquas' undoing was their ill-discipline, penalties, and the yellow and red cards they were shown.
They are determined to show that the result in Kimberley was not a true reflection of the team’s character and ability.
Adding fuel to the fire, a Cheetahs player made a bold statement on an OFM broadcast on Wednesday morning, confidently declaring their intention to defeat the Griquas, saying it will be similar to how the Pumas beat them in last year’s finals.
However, a quick-witted Griquas supporter promptly responded, reminding the Cheetahs that at least Griquas made it to the final last year.
These exchanges highlight the anticipation and intensity surrounding tomorrow’s match, and sets the stage for a battle of true rugby grit.
Realistically, a win against the table-topping Cheetahs will be like pulling a rabbit out of a hat for the Griquas. Nevertheless, they have their sights set on securing a more favourable position on the log as they strive to secure a play-off spot in 2023.
Speaking about the last game they played against the Cheetahs and what they need to do differently, coach Pieterse said that the Cheetahs were physically more dominant, and that is something they have been working hard on this season.
Another area they have focused on for this game was their mauls, because they know the Cheetahs have a good maul.
The history of the Griquas reminds us that they have often shown resilience when pushed against the wall.
Underestimating the Peacock Blues has proven to be a grave mistake in the past, and the Cheetahs would be wise not to repeat such an error because everybody knows that the Griquas are the comeback kings of the game.
Looking ahead, it doesn’t get easier for Griquas though. Following the battle against the Cheetahs, the Griquas will welcome the resurgent Western Province, who are currently in fourth spot on the log with 31 points, to their home ground, Windhoek Draught Park, on June 2.
This will be followed by a challenging encounter against the tough-as-nails defending champions Pumas, who are third on the log with 35 points, on Friday, June 9.
These upcoming fixtures will undoubtedly test the mettle of the Griquas, and their performances in these matches will significantly impact their journey towards the play-offs.
Will the Griquas rise to the occasion and cause an upset, or will the Cheetahs continue their dominance and solidify their position at the top of the table? One thing is for certain: tomorrow’s showdown promises to be a battle showcasing determination, skill, and unyielding spirit.