Shaun Goosen previews the Currie Cup fixtures taking place between 24 and 25 July 2021.
Saturday 24 July
Cheetahs v Sharks
14h30
Toyota Stadium
The Cheetahs tackle the Sharks at Toyota Stadium on Saturday as they look to keep intact some much-needed momentum.
It has been a stop-start affair in the Currie Cup for all teams due to a number of factors. SA Rugby is doing everything it can to keep the show on the road despite six matches having been cancelled so far.
Nevertheless, Hawies Fourie’s side have won two on the bounce and head into this one off the back of an impressive 38-21 trampling of Western Province on Wednesday. They will back themselves to pick up another W at home here.
Of the matches cancelled so far, the Sharks have been involved in three of them and haven’t had a chance to pick up any sort of form yet. Following the cancellation of their Wednesday match against the Bulls, they will play this one a little underdone.
Verdict: Cheetahs
The Cheetahs should be able to claim a valuable win as they continue their quest to get off the bottom of the standings.
Sunday 25 July
Pumas v Western Province
13h00
Mbombela Stadium
Jimmy Stonehouse’s Pumas will seek to inflict a fourth loss on Western Province when they meet at the Mbombela on Sunday.
The hosts have been terrific again in a season of massive disruptions and are still in the fight for a knockout berth. They are second on the standings and can maintain the pressure on the log-leading Griquas with another victory here.
Not unlike several other bigger unions, WP have had something of a campaign to forget so far. There’s still time for them to haul themselves back into the playoff positions but must act fast.
Verdict: Pumas
The Pumas look a force to be reckoned with and should claim another narrow win here.
Bulls v Lions
15h15
Loftus Versfeld
The Bulls take on the Lions in the trans-Jukskei derby at Loftus Versfeld on Sunday.
The home team have played just two games all season, the last of which came exactly a month ago during their narrow win over the Pumas. Still, they will be heavy favourites here after the defending champions miraculously beat SA ‘A’ 17-14 last week.
The Lions are still in search of a second win having suffered losses to the Pumas and, disappointingly, the Griquas at home on Wednesday.
Cash van Rooyen’s men will be up against it again here and will need a big shift to upset Jake White’s men.
Verdict: Bulls
The Bulls should have no issues here. They’re looking really good
