The Cheetahs were just too strong for Griquas in the first Currie Cup game of the 2023 season when the Bloemfontein boys ran out convincing 42-19 winners in Kimberley.
THE TOYOTA Cheetahs XV were just too strong for their Kimberley based hosts in the first Currie Cup game of the 2023 season when the Bloemfontein boys ran out convincing 42-19 winners against the Windhoek Draught Griquas in a thrilling encounter at Windhoek Draught Park on Friday afternoon.
The match saw both teams put up an excellent fight, with the Griquas making a strong comeback in the second half and scoring three tries in the process.
However, at the end of the day, the Cheetahs forwards were just too strong and physical for the Griquas, ultimately securing the win for the visitors.
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The first 15 minutes of the game saw a lot of kicking from both sides, with neither team able to gain a clear advantage. However, as the game progressed, the Cheetahs began to assert their dominance.
Though Griquas tried their best to contain the Cheetahs forward movement they were unable to do so. As the first half came to an end, the Cheetahs had already built up an impressive 22-0 lead.
Full Time: 🏉🧡
Windhoek Draught Griquas 19-42 Toyota Cheetahs.#GRIvCHE #CurrieCup
@ToyotaSA pic.twitter.com/dMb0EH9mf6— Toyota Cheetahs (@CheetahsRugby) March 10, 2023
The second half threatened to carry on in this manner when, shortly after the break Friedle Olivier scored another try which was converted by Ruan Pienaar. However, the Griquas came back with renewed energy and spirit and they were able to breach the Cheetahs’ defence scoring three tries, after flanker Olivier was sin-binned.
Despite the Griquas brief resurgence, the Cheetahs forwards remained dominant throughout the match. Their sheer size and strength allowed them to control the scrums and mauls, making it difficult for the Griquas to gain any momentum. The Cheetahs forwards were relentless in their pursuit of victory, and their efforts paid off as they emerged as the winners of the match.
First assignment ✅. On to the next one. 💪#GRIvCHE #CurrieCup #WhereLegendsRise
@ToyotaSA pic.twitter.com/ThtlbzXfSo— Toyota Cheetahs (@CheetahsRugby) March 10, 2023
Griquas, although disappointed with the loss, can take heart in the fact that though they seemed to be misfiring at times, they put up a good fight. Their second-half comeback showed that they have the potential to be a formidable team. However, they need to work on their defence and find a way to counter the physicality of teams like the Cheetahs with powerful and mobile forwards.
The Cheetahs, on the other hand, can be proud of their performance. Their forwards were outstanding throughout the match and were instrumental in securing their win. They will look to build on this victory and continue their winning form in the coming matches of the competition.
Point Scorers:
Windhoek Draught Griquas 19 (0) – Tries: Gustav du Rand (2), Luther Obi. Conversions: Lubabalo Dobela (2).
Toyota Cheetahs 42 (22) – Tries: Marnus van der Merwe, Gideon van der Merwe, Jeandré Rudolph, Friedle Olivier, Daniel Kasende. Conversions: Ruan Pienaar (4). Penalties: Pienaar (3).
