The Griffons will arrive in Bloemfontein determined to bounce back after their 52-33 defeat to the Suzuki Griquas last weekend. Meanwhile, the Cheetahs will aim to build on their 47-35 victory over Eastern Province, particularly as they now face four consecutive home games, where securing the full 20 points is non-negotiable.

Nearly a year ago, during the inaugural SA Cup, the Griffons staged a second-half comeback to stun the Cheetahs with a 36-33 victory in Welkom. However, the Cheetahs responded in the Toyota Challenge in October, securing a commanding 45-21 win in Bloemfontein.

Neels Volschenk (number 8). Photo: Morgan Piek

Cheetahs loose forward Neels Volschenk, who captained the team against the Griffons in Bloemfontein last year, told OFM Sport that increasing their physicality will be a key focus – especially against a team renowned for its toughness. After all, the Griffons aren’t affectionately known as the “Purple People Eaters” for nothing.

“The Griffons will definitely come to Bloem this weekend believing they can beat us on Saturday,” said Volschenk.

“We all know what they are capable of – they are a strong team, and you can’t afford to give them even a sniff of an opportunity.

“Physicality has been a shortcoming for us throughout this SA Cup campaign. It was evident again last weekend against Eastern Province, and we made life difficult for ourselves. As forwards, we pride ourselves on our set-pieces, winning collisions, dominating contact, and generating momentum and clean ball for our backs.

“We want to re-establish that dominance this Saturday and put on a display of quality running rugby.”

Volschenk added that with qualification for the Currie Cup Premier Division at stake, the Cheetahs must secure a win this weekend and follow it up with three more bonus-point victories over the next month.

Vernon Paulo. Photo: Morgan Piek

“We have four home games ahead of us, and we need to make them count,” he continued.

“Our goal is to secure all 20 points from these matches. As a team, we have spoken about making Toyota Stadium a fortress – somewhere opponents find it incredibly difficult to get a result.

“We are looking forward to the weekend. We know we need to improve, and hopefully, we can deliver a performance that makes both ourselves and our supporters proud.”

Saturday’s clash between the Cheetahs and the Griffons at Toyota Stadium will kick off at 15:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg