Cheetahs have one foot in semis
The Free State Cheetahs have positioned themselves well for a place in the Currie Cup semifinals thanks to their 52-21 hammering of Griquas in Kimberley on Saturday.
The Bloemfontein-based side scored no less than six tries against a flustered Griquas and now only need a single bonus point in next Saturday's home game against the Blue Bulls to secure their spot in the semifinals of the competition.
Coach Naka Drotské lauded his side for their emphatic victory and said it takes some pressure off the team heading into the final round of the regular season.
"We did very well on the day. We knew it was going to be tough in Kimberley and it was," Drotské said.
"In the first half we struggled to get out of first gear, but in the second the guys really performed well.
"This takes off some of the pressure for our game against the Bulls."
The visitors started pretty slow against a Griquas side that could not shake their bad run of form.
The Cheetahs entered the break 14-7 in the lead and in the second half put their foot down to score the bonus point try.
Wing Raymond Rhule showcased his skill, ultimately scoring four tries on the day.
Rhule was left out of the squad for their game against Western Province last weekend and the Cheetahs management gave his poor form and lack of confidence as reasons for his absence.
Being included for the Kimberley outing, the challenge was on the wing to convince Drotské he is at his best.
The youngster did that with the flair he has become known for.
"Raymond did really well. Anyone who scores four tries in a game can look back and say that they've had a good day at the office.
"Credit must also go to guys like Johann Sadie and Sarel Pretorius for their contributions."
SAPA
