It’s game day in Nelspruit, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. The Airlink Pumas and the Suzuki Griquas go head-to-head this evening in a top-of-the-table SA Cup showdown at Mbombela Stadium – a match that will not only determine the outright log leader but could be decisive in securing a home semi-final and potentially a final.
In an exclusive Coach’s Corner sit-down with Renaldo Bothma, Pumas head coach Jimmy Stonehouse opened up about everything from tonight’s massive clash to broader challenges facing South African rugby – with his trademark honesty and passion on full display.
A Break, A Boost, and a Big One
Coming off a welcome bye last weekend, the Pumas are fresh and focused heading into this critical fixture. Despite the unfortunate injury to hooker Stefan Coetzee, Stonehouse reported a high-energy buildup.
“We had a great rest last weekend and came back strong on Monday,” Stonehouse said. “Training went well, and we’re looking forward to this encounter. Pumas vs Griquas – it’s always a special one.”
And special it will be. With both teams level on points and only separated by for-and-against, tonight’s result could shape the rest of the tournament.
Griquas: Loaded, Dangerous, and In-Form
Stonehouse knows exactly what his team is up against.
“Griquas don’t have weak points. Strong set piece, pacey back three, powerful midfield, and then there’s George Whitehead – the master. He reads the game so well,” he said.
Adding to the Griquas’ depth is their access to Stormers-linked loan players like Leon Lyons and Weilbach, giving them a serious edge up front. “That loan system gives them an advantage. They’ve been playing great rugby this season – if they want to go around you, they do. If they want to go through the breakdown, they do.”
The Return of Willie Engelbrecht
A key addition for the Pumas this week is the experienced loose forward Willie Engelbrecht, back from his stint with the Stormers. His leadership and calmness under pressure could be vital in a high-stakes, physical clash.
“Willie’s return has been great,” Stonehouse said. “He brings a lot of calm and experience, and that helps the young guys learn. But we’ve also got great depth in our loose forwards with Ruwalt, Kwanda, and Fushia. It’s good to have competition and quality off the bench.”
Tactical Decisions: 6-2 Split and Weather Watch
The Pumas have opted for a 6-2 forwards-heavy split on the bench – a move partly influenced by unpredictable Lowveld weather.
“If it rains like it has, the game will come down to scrums and mauls – exactly how Griquas want to play. We’ve prepared for that. And we’ve got Darren, the former Blitzbok, who’s been trained as our second scrumhalf option if needed.”
A Bigger Picture: SA Rugby’s Development Crisis
Beyond the white lines, Stonehouse also voiced strong opinions about systemic issues in SA rugby, especially regarding player development and the lack of proper systems beyond school level.
“If you don’t make Craven Week or get a contract straight out of school, your rugby is basically done,” he said. “There’s no strong U20 national league. No B-sides at provincial unions. We’re losing late bloomers – the kind of guys who used to go from club rugby to Bok colours.”
He stressed the need for a better development pipeline, especially at smaller unions.
“There’s quality in SA, but there’s nowhere for players to go. And when bigger unions do take your talent, they don’t always send anyone back. It’s tough.”
The Loan Player Dilemma
Stonehouse also highlighted the ongoing imbalance in the loan system. While smaller unions are expected to contribute players to the bigger franchises, the reverse rarely happens.
“We gave players to the Lions and Bulls, but they don’t return. Either they get bought out mid-contract or there’s always an excuse when we ask for help,” he said. “We’d love to work together, but there needs to be mutual respect and honouring of contracts.”
Matchday in Mbombela
With all eyes on the Mbombela turf tonight, Stonehouse expects a massive crowd and a hard-fought encounter.
“Tickets are selling fast. We’ve handed out plenty to local schools like Hoërskool Nelspruit. This game’s going to be massive,” he said.
His message to fans? “Come support. This is what SA Cup rugby is all about – two quality teams battling it out for top spot. You don’t want to miss it.”
Final Word
With just a few rounds left and the top four spots hotly contested – Boland, Griffons and Valke are all still in the race – every match now is knockout rugby in disguise.
But tonight’s clash feels like a final before the final. It’s Pumas. It’s Griquas. It’s for the summit. And if Jimmy Stonehouse has anything to say about it, the Pumas won’t go down without a fight.
