The Toyota Cheetahs’ dream of a third successive Challenge Cup playoff appearance came to an abrupt end on Saturday night, as Lyon handed them a heavy 68-21 defeat at Matmut Stadium.
Cheetahs Outclassed in France
The Free State side struggled to match Lyon’s pace and precision, conceding 10 tries in a one-sided affair. The loss eliminates the Cheetahs from the race for a place in the round of 16, marking a disappointing end to their Challenge Cup campaign after two consecutive playoff appearances in prior seasons.
Flanker Daniel Maartens, winger Prince Nkabinde, and replacement loosie Neels Volschenk scored the Cheetahs’ three tries. However, a 57-minute drought between the first and second tries allowed Lyon to dominate proceedings.
Lyon’s Commanding Performance
Flyhalf Leo Berdeu, celebrating his 104th appearance for Lyon, starred with 28 points from two tries and nine conversions. Kiwi centre Josiah Maraku added two tries as the French outfit converted a 33-7 halftime lead into a statement victory that secured second place in Pool 1 and a spot in the last 16.
Cheetahs Reflect on Campaign
For the Cheetahs, the result underscores the challenges of competing against Europe’s elite. Despite flashes of brilliance, they were unable to build momentum in a game dominated by Lyon’s clinical finishing and superior physicality.
As the Cheetahs head home, they’ll look to regroup and take valuable lessons from their European campaign, focusing on local competitions in the coming weeks.