Maart’s double fires Griquas into Currie Cup decider against Lions

Griquas booked their place in the Currie Cup final after cruising to a 25-5 victory over neighbours, the Cheetahs, in Kimberley on Saturday evening.

The Peacock Blues outscored the Cheetahs three tries to one at Suzuki Park to set up a clash against the Lions. The final will be contested at Ellis Park this coming weekend after the Lions comprehensively beat the Boland Cavaliers in the first semi.

While the Griquas scored three excellent tries to take the game by the scruff of the neck, they know some hard work lies ahead. They will need to make a significant step up in Johannesburg if they are to claim the title on Saturday. They’ve already had a taste of what to expect from the Lions a couple of weeks ago, so they know an improved performance will be required.

Despite not being at their best, the Griquas still managed to entertain the home crowd with some well-taken tries. The Kimberley side’s physicality is one aspect of their game that can compete with the Lions, but they must sharpen up their attack to capitalise fully on the opportunities they create.

There was a touch of magic in their backline, highlighted by the first try from lock Albert Liebenberg. Fullback Cameron Hufke dazzled with his footwork before the ball went wide to find Liebenberg in space to score.

Winger Dylan Maart’s first try — one of two — showed just how poorly the Cheetahs defended at times.

Points scorers

Griquas 25 (12): Tries: Albert Liebenberg, Dylan Maart (2). Conversions: George Whitehead (2). Penalties: Whitehead (2). Cheetahs 5 (5): Try: Prince Nkabinde.

A kick from flyhalf George Whitehead landed in no-man’s land, and the visitors failed to collect, allowing Maart to scoop up the loose ball and run in untouched for his side’s second score. That try came just two minutes after Van den Berg crossed the line and effectively knocked the wind out of the Cheetahs’ sails.

In the 56th minute, Maart’s second try in the corner after he showed some incredible athleticism all but sealed the result. That try emanated from a strong rolling maul before it was spread wide to the winger to go over. Although the Cheetahs showed glimpses of fight, they consistently undid their own efforts with unnecessary penalties and costly turnovers.

Neither side impressed in the lineouts, and that remains an area the Griquas will need to improve on ahead of the final.

Still, they delivered a strong performance, especially on defence, and will head to Johannesburg ready to challenge the Lions for the title.