After a gritty clash against the Griquas last weekend, the Boland Cavaliers are aiming to bounce back in style as they prepare to face the Border Bulldogs this coming weekend. But while some might see this as an easier fixture, Coach Hawies Fourie isn’t buying into that narrative.
You don’t know what to expect from them,” he cautioned. “They always play better at home, and they’ll be desperate to turn things around.”
Last weekend’s narrow loss to Griquas was a hard pill to swallow for Fourie and his squad. The Cavaliers held their own for most of the match, executing their game plan with confidence, but two simultaneous yellow cards late in the game left them vulnerable against Griquas’ sharp kicking game and dangerous back three. In the space of 15 minutes, the match flipped — with Griquas scoring three tries to clinch the win.
It was a tough one,” Fourie admitted. “But I was proud of the effort from the guys. Even down on numbers, we kept fighting and scored a try in the 80th minute. That bonus point might be vital later in the campaign.”
With that fighting spirit still fresh, Boland are now setting their sights on a five-point win over the struggling Bulldogs — a side that suffered a heavy defeat to the Pumas in their previous outing. But for Fourie, the focus is less on the opposition and more on consistency, execution, and smart squad management.
Squad Rotation with Purpose
This week sees a bit of squad rotation — not wholesale changes, but enough to keep key players fresh while rewarding others who’ve been grinding it out on the training ground.
We’ve given opportunities to a few players who’ve been sharp at training and waiting for their shot,” said Fourie. “It’s about finding that balance — resting guys who need it, but keeping our performance levels high.”
That balance is especially critical considering the Cavaliers’ long-term goals. Every point counts, and in a competition where margins are tight, bonus points and points difference could ultimately decide semi-final spots.
The aim is simple — we want five points. And if we can do that, then we’ll look to increase our points difference,” Fourie explained. “Because if teams are level on the log at the end, that difference could be the decider.”
Constructive Rugby and Ruthless Execution
For Fourie, the message is clear: stick to the plan, play constructive rugby, and be ruthless when opportunities arise. It’s not just about winning — it’s about building momentum, fine-tuning combinations, and maintaining focus in a competition where one slip-up can cost dearly.
We’ve got to play well and keep improving. This weekend is about showing our depth, staying sharp, and putting in a complete performance.”
With the Boland Cavaliers gunning for a top-four finish, every fixture matters. And while the Bulldogs may be under pressure, that unpredictability is exactly what keeps Fourie on his toes.
We respect them. But we’re focused on ourselves and what we need to do to keep climbing the log.”
