The second-string Sharks team stunned the much more fancied Cheetahs with a 24-17 win on Friday in Bloemfontein to move to third in the standings.

The Cheetahs managed to retain the second place on the log, however, the defeat meant that the defending champions, the Pumas have opened up the gap at the summit.

The Cheetahs looked flat and lacklustre throughout the game, despite their comeback attempt in the second half, which ultimately proved to be too little, too late.

While some 50/50 calls didn’t go the way of the Cheetahs, they certainly didn’t make the most of their possession they were able to get.

This week the Cheetahs will host the Griffons in Bloemfontein in a Free State derby and this match will be the ideal opportunity for the side to lift their game. After playing just two home games in their last eleven outings, the Cheetahs may opt to give some players a break as they did look tired in the game.

The Cheetahs' forward coach, Izak van der Westhuizen, told OFM Sport that they have to lift themselves up following their display against the Sharks.

“The times we had possession we didn't use it and we spilt a lot of opportunities,” said Van der Westhuizen.

“I just felt like we were asleep at the wheel a little bit and we just struggled to get going.

“We are a proud team and we pride ourselves on what we do.

“This week will be a good opportunity to take a good look at ourselves and figure out what we need to get right going into the second half of the competition.”

On Friday at 19:05, the Cheetahs will tackle the Griffons at the Toyota Stadium.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport