The team from Welkom is heading into the derby with confidence after their remarkable 38-35 victory over the Boland Cavaliers on Saturday – making a comeback from a 28-7 deficit at half-time.

The Griffons are one of only three unbeaten teams left in the competition and they are determined to maintain this momentum.

Griffons loose forward Ulrich Stander told OFM Sport their win against Boland has given them a significant boost, especially with the top four teams in the SA Cup qualifying for the Currie Cup Premier Division.

“After the Boland game, we see every match as an opportunity – to play, to give our best,” said Stander.

“They were coming off a big win, and we knew their confidence was high, so we had to dig deep to secure the victory. The first half didn’t go according to plan, but we pulled through in the second half. It was a massive win for us, especially in this year’s Currie Cup, where qualifying for the top four is crucial. The team really put up a strong fight.

“As I said, every game is an opportunity for us to showcase what we, as the Griffons, are capable of.”

Stander, who is playing for the Griffons on a six-month contract, added that while they are confident, they cannot underestimate the wounded Leopards in this upcoming derby.

Jan Fourie Trophy. Photo: SupaRugby

“Looking ahead to this weekend’s game against the Leopards, we know they’ll come out strong. We beat them in a friendly, and the Cheetahs and Griquas also had big wins against them, so they’ll be looking for revenge.

“But just because we’re coming off a big win, doesn’t mean anything is guaranteed – we still have a lot of work to do before the end of the SA Cup.

“The key for us is to stay focused, take this game as just another match, and neither underestimate nor overestimate any opponent. Every match is a chance to prove ourselves and move closer to qualifying for the Currie Cup later this year.”

Saturday’s derby for the Jan Fourie Trophy at Olën Park in Potchefstroom kicks off at 15:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg