In a game that showcased the Free State Cheetahs’ prowess, the home team dismantled the Griffons with an emphatic 82-20 victory on Saturday, setting the stage for the big Springbok clash. Despite the possession and territory statistics showing a balanced contest, the Cheetahs’ superior skill and execution were evident, particularly highlighted by their 11 turnovers.
Outscoring a much-changed Griffons team by 12 tries to two, the Cheetahs made a massive statement of intent. The greater accuracy of the Cheetahs against a Griffons side with ten players on Currie Cup debut saw them pull away in a 50-point second-half rout.
Key Moments:
- 80′ – Full-Time Whistle: The referee blows the final whistle, sealing an extraordinary victory for the Cheetahs.
- 79′-80′ – Tries and Conversions: Jandre Nel finishes a wonderful passing move, followed by a try from Marco Jansen van Vuren. George Lourens converts both.
- 78′-79′ – Quickfire Tries: Daniel Kasende and Gideon van der Merwe cross the line, with conversions by George Lourens.
- 67′ – Griffons Fight Back: Gurshwin Nikhole Wehr scores a try, converted by Qamani Kota.
- 65′ – Cheetahs Surge: Neels Volschenk scores after a setup by Jandre Nel.
- 59′ – Jandre Nel’s Solo Magic: Nel scores a stunning solo try, converted by Ethan Wentzel.
- 49′ – Daniel Kasende Strikes Again: Kasende powers through for a try set up by Gideon van der Merwe.
- 43′-44′ – Early Second Half: Tries from Jeandre Rudolph and Litha Nkula, both converted by Ethan Wentzel, pile on the points.
- 40′ – Half-Time: Cheetahs head to the break with a commanding lead, 28-13, thanks to a penalty try and Gideon van der Merwe crashing over after a series of powerful carries.
- 19′-28′ – Discipline Issues: The champions had Victor Sekekete and Jeandre Rudolph sin-binned within ten minutes of each other. Sekekete was sent off for cynically collapsing a driving maul, resulting in a penalty try for the Griffons. While still a man down, Gideon van der Merwe burst over, and on the stroke of half-time, the Cheetahs were awarded another penalty try, with Griffons hooker Chadley Wenn joining the sin bin parade.
- 12′ – Early Onslaught: Early tries from new signing Sbu Nkosi and rookie flyhalf Ethan Wentzel gave the Cheetahs a 14-3 lead within the first 12 minutes.
Player Performances:
- Top Carries:
- Gideon van der Merwe (Cheetahs) – 10
- Sbu Nkosi (Cheetahs) – 9
- Daniel Kasende (Cheetahs) – 9
- Top Tackles:
- Gideon van der Merwe (Cheetahs) – 15
- Ali Mgijima (Cheetahs) – 12
- Jandre de Beer (Griffons) – 11
Tactical Analysis:
The Cheetahs showcased their superiority with relentless offensive pressure and rock-solid defense. Despite an equal share of territory and possession, the Griffons were unable to match the Cheetahs’ intensity and execution. The Cheetahs’ ability to create and exploit turnovers played a crucial role in their dominance.
Statistical Summary:
- Territory: Cheetahs 50%, Griffons 50%
- Possession: Cheetahs 50%, Griffons 50%
- Ball Carries: Cheetahs 101, Griffons 101
- Tackles Made: Cheetahs 117, Griffons 83
The Cheetahs’ fans had plenty to cheer about as their team displayed a masterclass in rugby, setting a high bar for the upcoming Springbok clash. The Griffons, despite their promising first-half efforts, ultimately succumbed to the superior class and experience of the Cheetahs.