With the race for a Currie Cup Premier Division spot heating up, the Valke find themselves in a pressure cooker of opportunity and uncertainty. Sitting sixth on the SA Cup log, they still have everything to play for – and head coach JP Immelman knows it.
After a disappointing loss last weekend, the Valke’s ambitions took a knock. But in true rugby fashion, the camp has bounced back with a renewed focus ahead of Saturday’s all-important clash against the Leopards in Potchefstroom.
Speaking to Renaldo Bothma on Coach’s Corner, Coach JP didn’t shy away from the sting of their most recent defeat – but also made it clear the team has regrouped and redirected its energy toward what’s still within reach.
“We had to look at ourselves and have some good, tough conversations,” Immelman said. “It came down to our standards – what we say we’ll do versus what we’re actually doing. But that’s part of the growth. Come Monday, you dust yourself off and go again.”
A Do-or-Die Run-In
With two games remaining in the SA Cup, the Valke are part of a three-horse race with the Griffons and Boland Kavaliers for what could be the last available Currie Cup Premier Division qualification spot. It’s neck-and-neck, with every point now carrying weight – particularly bonus points.
Their clash against the Leopards is more than just a fixture – it’s a lifeline.
“We know going to Potch is never easy,” JP admitted. “It’s always physical, always bruising. But we’ve had a good week and reset our targets. We’re taking it one game at a time, and we know what’s at stake.”
A Look at the Bigger Picture
This weekend’s schedule makes things particularly interesting. Boland, one of Valke’s direct competitors on the log, are up against the high-flying Pumas – arguably their toughest fixture of the campaign. A bonus-point win for Valke against the Leopards, combined with a slip from Boland, could propel JP’s men into prime position heading into the final round.
“We’re hoping to keep the pressure on Boland and the Griffons,” Immelman explained. “If we can do our job, and if the cards fall our way, we’re right in the mix by the time the last round comes around.”
It’s a pragmatic approach from a coach who understands the margins at this level – but also a clear sign that belief still runs deep in the Valke squad.
Bounce Back Mentality
After a season that’s seen its fair share of ups and downs, the Valke are not unfamiliar with adversity. What’s important now is how they respond. And if the mood in the camp this week is anything to go by, they’re not just hoping to sneak in – they’re ready to earn it.
“It’s about more than just this week. It’s about what this group is building,” said JP. “Last weekend hurt, yes. But we’ve addressed it. And now the energy is on what we can control – our effort, our intensity, and our execution.”
All Eyes on Potch
The Leopards, for their part, will be no pushovers. Known for their grit and home-ground advantage at Olën Park, they’ll want to end their season on a high – and potentially play spoiler in the SA Cup playoff race. But the Valke are coming with intent, clarity, and a renewed hunger.
With everything on the line, Coach JP’s message is simple: keep the belief, do the work, and let the table take care of itself.
