This match was the Cheetahs’ sole warm-up fixture before they head to the Netherlands for their opening encounter in the EPCR Challenge Cup. The team secured a 31-14 victory over the Bulls, and while it was only a hit-out against a team far from being full-strength, it was a promising sign as they prepared for the competition.

This marks the Cheetahs' third season competing in the tournament. In the previous two campaigns, they successfully reached the knockout stages on both occasions.

Young Cheetahs tighthead prop Laurence Victor, speaking to OFM Sport, revealed the team’s ambitious mindset ahead of the season.

“French teams are well-known for their scrums – they have very strong set-pieces. So, we’ve been working hard on our scrums. It’s crucial for us to get low, maintain good shape, and give it everything we’ve got,” said the 22-year-old.

“I’m very excited. We’ve got a mindset to go and win, and I think everyone has bought into that idea. We’re giving our best every day in training. It’s great to learn these things and to test what we’ve been working on during the past three weeks of pre-season. So, yeah, it’s good.”

Laurence Victor. Photo: Facebook

Adapting to the synthetic pitches in Europe presents a unique challenge, particularly for younger players. However, Victor added that the adjustment process is manageable.

“At least it’s not my first time, but for some of the guys, it will be. You’ve got to get new studs – smaller ones that fit the pitch properly – but it’s a change you adapt to quite quickly,” he explained.

The Cheetahs are set to announce their touring squad on Monday, ahead of their first match against Perpignan next Sunday in Amsterdam.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg