The table-topping Free State Cheetahs travel to Hollywoodbets Kings Park to take on a Sharks side looking to narrow the deficit between themselves and the leaders in the pick of the round on Friday.
Friday 19 May
Western Province | Draw | Pumas
Handicap
WP | Pumas
Odds TBA*
Province are fourth with a 50% record from their 10 games and head into this one off the back of a hard-fought 25-21 win in Welkom over the Griffons.
The second-placed Pumas lost ground in their home defeat to the Sharks in the previous round but still have a narrow two-point buffer over the Durbanites (third).
With the 34 000 seater Athlone Stadium playing host to Friday’s encounter, the away team could sneak it here.
Pumas to take it.
Sharks | Draw | Free State Cheetahs
Handicap
Sharks | Cheetahs
The Sharks will take much confidence from their comeback win over the defending champs in Mbombela last week but face a Cheetahs lineup hurting after their home loss to the Golden Lions.
The Free Staters, occupying top spot with 38-points, will be eager to get back to winning ways and the hosts will need to be at their best if they are to take this one.
Cheetahs to win.
Saturday 20 May
Griffons | Draw | Griquas
Handicap
Griffons | Griquas
Griffons came within four-points of claiming a second win of their campaign against WP last week but have another shot at collecting another W against Griquas here.
The men from Kimberley are sixth, four-points off the playoff spots but could find themselves ambushed in Welkom.
Griffons to win.
Golden Lions | Draw | Blue Bulls
Handicap
Lions | Bulls
The Lions will be riding the wave after beating the table-toppers in Bloemfontein last week and should carry that momentum into the trans-Jukskei derby here.
Even with their URC players back the Bulls may not have enough in Johannesburg.
Lions to win.
