With the SA Cup entering its final stretch, the race to the top four is heating up – and Boland are right in the thick of it. Currently sitting fourth on the log with 40 points, level with the Novafit Griffons and Valke, every match from here on is do-or-die for the Wellington-based side. This weekend, they host a resurgent Leopards outfit, and head coach Hawies Fourie is under no illusions about what’s at stake.
In a voice note exchange with Renaldo Bothma this week, Fourie gave an inside look at the team’s preparation following a timely bye.
“We started training this morning again after a few days off,” he said. “We gave the players a break since Thursday morning last week. They trained hard until Wednesday, so I think the rest was needed – both physically and mentally. The guys are fresh and ready to go.”
Leopards Reinforced, Boland Refocused
While Boland will take confidence from their strong season so far, Fourie is wary of the Leopards’ threat, especially with reinforcements expected from their Varsity Cup affiliate, Pukke.
“We know that the Leopards will probably get some reinforcements from Pukke, which will strengthen their team. It happened the same time last year after the Varsity Cup,” Fourie explained. “We expect them to have a much stronger team than what we’ve seen earlier in the competition. They’ve improved in every game they’ve played, so we know we’re in for a tough one.”
That awareness has sharpened Boland’s focus, especially with the Currie Cup picture tightening up. With only four teams progressing, there’s absolutely no room for slip-ups.
We are in a situation where we can’t drop any log points. We can’t afford any slip-ups anymore,” said Fourie. “So we are focused and we know exactly what we need to do this weekend.”
Positive Energy Building in Wellington
Despite the high stakes, there’s a palpable sense of positivity around the Boland camp – something fans have noticed on social media and match days alike. The team has built a strong identity this season, playing enterprising rugby with a blend of youthful energy and experienced heads.
“There’s definitely a good vibe here,” Fourie said. “The squad is looking positive, and you can feel there’s belief growing in the group. We’ve got momentum, and now it’s about maintaining it when it matters most.”
The off-week seems to have come at the perfect time for the side, offering a chance to recharge ahead of what will likely be three massive rounds to determine their Currie Cup fate.
Currie Cup Crunch Time
Boland’s match against the Leopards is just one of several make-or-break encounters in the coming weeks. With the Griffons and Valke also level on points, it’s a sprint to the finish, where every try, every kick, and every tackle could be the difference between playoff rugby and an early off-season.
Fourie knows it too. “The margins are tight. We have to take our chances and play smart rugby,” he added. “The Leopards will be up for it – but so will we. And we’ll be playing in front of our home crowd in Wellington, which gives us a big boost.”
Looking Ahead
Boland’s path to the playoffs is simple: win, and keep winning. The journey starts this weekend against the Leopards – a team hungry to disrupt, but a team Boland must overcome if they are to keep their Currie Cup dream alive.
With the squad re-energised, the coach clear-eyed, and the mission well understood, expect a fired-up Boland side to take the field in Wellington this weekend – ready to fight for every inch.
