Western Province face the Golden Lions in a potentially make-or-break Currie Cup round three clash at DHL Newlands on Saturday, writes Shaun Goosen.
Western Province v Golden Lions
27 July 17h15
DHL Newlands
To Win
Western Province 1/5
Draw 34/1
Golden Lions 17/5
Given this year’s edition has favoured a single-round format, teams can ill-afford to lose two matches if they are to host a playoff at season’s end.
WP, who went down 30-27 in Durban last week, have already accumulated one strike and will need a much-improved showing if they are to take down a dangerous Lions outfit at home on Saturday.
John Dobson’s men, who he accused of lacking passion in their defeat to the Sharks, have been boosted by the return from injury of the likes of Springbok captain Siya Kolisi and Sergeal Petersen, while Dillyn Leyds joins the squad after being released from the Bok camp.
While Kolisi is unlikely to feature, Leyds and Petersen should offer the side more on attack.
The Lions come off a bye following their narrow one-point win over the Pumas in round one and will look to keep intact their 100% record in the competition ahead of a few tricky fixtures to come.
Key for them will be the performance of winger Madosh Tambwe, who bagged four tries in that Pumas game a fortnight ago. If the Lions forwards gain the upper hand, Tambwe may well outshine Leyds, et al.
Verdict: Western Province 1/5
However, Province should find an extra gear to come away with a win at Newlands and get their campaign back on track.
