The Suzuki Griquas delivered a masterclass in attacking rugby, running in 10 tries to dismantle the Leopards 64-7 in their SA Cup clash at Olen Park. The visitors showed their class from the outset, racing to a 31-0 halftime lead before sealing a ruthless second-half performance.
One-Sided First Half as Griquas Dominate
The Griquas wasted no time asserting their authority, opening the scoring through Carl Els (17’). That set the tone for a relentless period of attack, with further tries from Cameron Hufke (22’), Marco De Witt (28’), Connor Mahoney (35’), and Gustav Tiaan Du Rand (42’), all expertly marshaled by fly-half Tylor Sefoor, who slotted four conversions.
The Leopards struggled to find any attacking momentum, as the Griquas’ defensive line speed shut down any hope of a breakthrough. The halftime whistle blew with the visitors in complete control at 31-0.
Griquas Keep Their Foot on the Gas
The second half continued in the same fashion, with Carl Els (45’) grabbing his second try before Sefoor added another conversion. The Griquas’ dominance was briefly disrupted by a yellow card to Gustav Erlank (55’), which gave the Leopards a glimmer of hope.
That hope materialized into points when Arminn Posthumus (59’) crossed the whitewash, with Shaun-Christian Baxter converting to put the hosts on the scoreboard at 38-7. However, that would be the only moment of joy for the home side, as the Griquas responded with another wave of tries.
Late in the game, George Whitehead (70’), Mnombo Zwelendaba (73’), Connor Mahoney (79’), and Tertius Kruger (81’) all added to the tally, with Whitehead converting three of them to complete the 64-7 rout.
Star Performers: Els and Mahoney Shine
Griquas flanker Carl Els and winger Connor Mahoney were standout performers, each scoring two tries, while fullback Cameron Hufke and fly-half Tylor Sefoor controlled proceedings with precision.
Leopards Left with Much to Improve
For the Leopards, it was a tough outing, as they were outplayed in all areas. Their set-piece struggled, and they failed to contain the Griquas’ expansive game. Arminn Posthumus’ try was a brief highlight, but they will need to regroup quickly to avoid another heavy defeat in their next outing.
Final Thoughts
This dominant display cements the Suzuki Griquas as serious contenders in the SA Cup, while the Leopards will need to regroup after a humbling afternoon. With 10 tries scored, the Griquas sent a clear message to the rest of the competition—they mean business.
