The Sanlam Boland Cavaliers produced a commanding performance to defeat the Toyota Cheetahs 45-29 in an electrifying SA Cup clash at Boland Stadium. The home side showcased a balance of powerful forward play and slick backline execution, sealing victory with five well-worked tries.
Cavaliers Set the Tone Early
The match kicked off with Boland showing early intent, and Cornal Hendricks (6′) opened the scoring with a try, converted by Ashlon Davids. The Cavaliers continued their early dominance with a Lunathi Nxele try (14′), before hooker Sidney Tobias (23′) bulldozed over from close range. Davids slotted his second conversion, extending the lead to 19-0.
The Cheetahs, struggling to get a foothold in the game, finally responded in the 34th minute when Prince Nkabinde crossed the whitewash, with John Lourens adding the conversion. Pierre-Raymond Uys (39′) added a second try before halftime, closing the gap to 19-12 at the break.
Second Half: Cavaliers’ Tactical Control Seals the Win
The second half started with Ashlon Davids (42′) adding a penalty for Boland, but the Cheetahs fought back with a try from Jandre Nel (44′). The game remained tight as John Lourens (49′) added another for the visitors, converted by Cohen Jasper, bringing the score to 22-19 in Boland’s favor.
However, the Cavaliers regained control through their structured attack, with Lunathi Nxele (64′) scoring his second try. Davids converted, stretching the lead to 29-19.
The Cheetahs struggled with discipline, as Jeandre Rudolph was sent to the sin bin (69′), and Boland capitalized. Replacement Garth April kicked two penalties (71′, 74′), further extending the lead before Duren Hoffman (79′) scored the final try, sealing a 45-29 triumph.
Standout Performers
- Lunathi Nxele (Boland Cavaliers) – Two crucial tries at key moments.
- Ashlon Davids (Boland Cavaliers) – Controlled the game well, contributing three conversions and two penalties.
- Jandre Nel (Cheetahs) – Scored twice but couldn’t prevent his side’s defeat.
Final Thoughts
The Sanlam Boland Cavaliers’ superior game management and tactical kicking allowed them to control proceedings, while the Cheetahs’ ill-discipline and defensive lapses proved costly. With this result, Boland establishes itself as a strong contender in the SA Cup, while the Cheetahs will need to sharpen their defensive structure for their next outing.
