The Airlink Pumas and Toyota Cheetahs delivered a high-octane spectacle under the lights, with the home side emerging victorious 46-38 in a pulsating 13-try SA Cup battle. In a match where momentum swung like a pendulum, it was the Pumas’ superior composure in key moments that proved decisive.
First Half: Try-Fest Underway
The tone was set early as Neels Volschenk (8′) crashed over for the Cheetahs, converted by Cohen Jasper, who would go on to have a perfect day off the tee. The Pumas responded through Ntsika Fisanti (13′), converted by Clinton Swart, who then scored one himself minutes later to tie things up.
Both teams traded tries in rapid succession:
- Carl Wegner (17′) and Ali Mgijima (30′) scored for the Cheetahs
- Wian Van Niekerk (37′) and Darren Adonis (39′) hit back for the Pumas
With the scoreboard ticking relentlessly, the Pumas went into the break 26-24 ahead.
Second Half: Fireworks Continue
The second half opened with controversy as Pumas hooker Jan-henning Campher was sent off (46′), leaving the hosts down to 14 men. Just moments earlier, the Cheetahs had leveled the scores at 31-31 through a try from Louis Van Der Westhuizen (45′).
Despite the red card, the Pumas refused to back down. A quick double strike from Ross Braude (54′) and Jay Cee Nel (58′) pushed the lead out again. Nel would go on to score a second try (74′), while replacement Danrich Visagie added a penalty and conversion to seal the deal.
The Cheetahs kept the pressure on with a try from Michael Annies (51′), but their effort wasn’t enough to overhaul the resilient Pumas.
Cards and Chaos
In total, the Pumas finished with one red card—first Campher (46′) which then forced Ruwald Van Der Merwe to be replaced. Despite the numerical disadvantage, they managed to control territory and possession thanks to accurate tactical substitutions and clutch scoring.
Key Performers
- Jay Cee Nel (Pumas) – Bagged a brace of tries, turning the tide when his team needed it most.
- Clinton Swart (Pumas) – Controlled the first half with a try and three conversions.
- Cohen Jasper (Cheetahs) – Flawless from the tee with five conversions and a penalty.
Final Thoughts
The Airlink Pumas’ ability to adapt under pressure and score with 14 men on the field was nothing short of remarkable. This 46-38 victory not only keeps them firmly in the SA Cup title conversation but also sends a clear message: the Pumas are built for high-pressure rugby.
The Cheetahs, meanwhile, will rue defensive lapses and the inability to take full advantage of the Pumas’ red card. Nonetheless, their attacking threat remains potent and dangerous for any opponent going forward.
