In a heart-stopping EPCR Challenge Cup clash, the Cheetahs kept their playoff hopes alive with a dramatic 22-18 victory over Zebre on Sunday in Amsterdam. Fullback Cohen Jasper was the hero, scoring the match-winning try after the final whistle in a game filled with tension, lead changes, and relentless determination.
A Match of Twists and Turns
The encounter saw the lead shift hands no fewer than seven times, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Despite a dry spell of scoring for over 35 minutes in the second half, the tension never eased. Zebre held an 18-17 lead for the majority of the second period and appeared to have done enough to claim the win.
However, the Cheetahs refused to back down. As the clock ticked into overtime, the South African side launched a final attack, building phases just 30 metres out. Flyhalf Ethan Wentzel, in a risky decision, attempted a low-percentage chip kick into Zebre’s 22. While it seemed a gamble too far, replacement scrumhalf Jandre Nel chased the ball with incredible determination, winning it back just five metres from the try line. From there, the ball was swiftly spread wide, finding Jasper who crossed the whitewash to snatch victory for the visitors.
First-Half Action
The Cheetahs had started the match brightly, heading into the break with a 17-11 lead. Fullback Michael Annies and No. 8 Jeandre Rudolph both scored crucial tries, with Wentzel converting both and adding a penalty to keep the scoreboard ticking.
Zebre, however, stayed within reach, responding through a try from Simone Gesi and two penalties slotted by flyhalf Giovanni Montemauri and scrumhalf Thomas Dominguez.
Zebre’s Comeback and Cheetahs’ Resilience
Early in the second half, Zebre took control as hooker Tommaso di Bartolomeo powered over the line, with Dominguez converting to give the hosts an 18-17 lead. From there, Zebre defended with grit, keeping the Cheetahs at bay for over half an hour and frustrating their attacking efforts.
Yet, the South African outfit showed their resilience. With the clock in the red, they executed the game-winning sequence, showcasing both individual brilliance and team cohesion under pressure.
Playoff Picture
The Cheetahs’ thrilling victory keeps them in playoff contention, with just one pool match remaining against Lyon this Saturday. Currently sitting behind Perpignan in Pool 1 by a mere two points, they will be hoping for a Zebre win when the Italian side hosts Perpignan on Sunday.
This nail-biting finish not only keeps the Cheetahs’ campaign alive but highlights their fighting spirit as they chase European success. The stage is now set for a high-stakes finish to the pool stage.