Currie Cup Predictions – Round 4

Friday’s catfight between the undefeated Cheetahs and Pumas headlines this weekend’s Currie Cup action, writes Quintin van Jaarsveld.

The top-of-the-table clash in Bloemfontein is preceded by the Round Four opener between the Griffons and the Bulls in Welkom while Saturday sees the Lions square off with the Sharks in Johannesburg and Western Province and Griquas to Cape Town.

Griffons v Bulls

Friday, 31 March – 15:00

Last weekend’s game against the Lions, which saw the Griffons lead 23-12 and ultimately lose 41-26, was another example of the growing pains they’ll experience in the Premier Division. One good half of rugby isn’t enough to get over the line at this level.

They’ll fancy their chances against a struggling Bulls team who were no match for the Cheetahs, however, the Bulls’ former Springboks and greater balance will give them the fuel and sustained force to come out with a bonus-point win. 

Cheetahs v Pumas

Friday, 31 March – 17:05

The timing of the top-of-the-table showdown is unfortunate given the Cheetahs ‘A’ team have flown off to France for their European Challenge Cup last 16 clash against Toulon. 

Unlike the four United Rugby Championship franchises, the Cheetahs don’t have the luxury of a two-squad system and therefore find themselves in a pickle here. 

The Pumas didn’t have it all their own way against Griquas last weekend but closed the game out well and they’ll have too much firepower for the depleted Free Staters. 

Lions v Sharks

Saturday, 1 April – 15:30

The Lions will be buoyed that they broke their duck against the Griffons but were far from convincing and face an altogether different challenge in the Sharks, who handed Western Province their first loss last weekend. 

The Sharks’ Currie Cup side seem to have settled and the depth of the Durban franchise allows them to field some next-level talent in the likes of James Venter, Reniel Hugo and Yaw Penxe. 

That superior depth will be the driving force behind the men in black and white bagging the win.  

Western Province v Griquas

Saturday, 1 April – 19:15

After being brought down to earth in Durban last weekend, Western Province will look to bounce back at home. A more balanced side will be needed than the rookie-laden one that went down to the Sharks and they should be able to call on some experienced heads who won’t be part of the Stormers’ plans. 

Griquas looked as if they might get revenge for last year’s final heartbreak as they pushed the Pumas hard but fell off in the second half. An 80-minute performance would get them close, but the personnel Western Province should be able to call on and home-ground advantage make them the pick.