The SA Cup playoff race is set for a dramatic finish, with six teams still in contention heading into the final round after a weekend of high-scoring, high-stakes action.
Griquas tightened their grip on top spot with a commanding 62-12 victory over SWD Eagles in Kimberley, maintaining their perfect record and moving to 40 log points – seven clear of their nearest challengers.
Defending champions Pumas kept pace with a thrilling 38-31 win over Boland Cavaliers in Nelspruit, a result that keeps them firmly on track for a home semi-final.
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The weekend’s standout attacking display came from the Cheetahs, who reignited their campaign in emphatic fashion by hammering Border Bulldogs 87-5 in East London. The Free Staters ran in 13 tries, with Michael Annies leading the charge with four.
Eastern Province boosted their campaign with a hard-fought 31-28 win over the Griffons in Welkom, holding off a late comeback to claim their third victory of the season.
Meanwhile, the Valke kept their slim playoff hopes alive with a tense 31-27 win over the Leopards in Kempton Park.
With one round remaining, the log remains finely poised. Griquas lead the way on 40 points, followed by the Pumas on 33, while the Cheetahs sit third on 30. Boland and SWD are level on 27 points, with Boland edging into fourth on points difference, while the Valke remain within striking distance on 24.
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The final round promises fireworks.
The headline clash sees the Cheetahs host Griquas in Bloemfontein on Friday evening, while the Pumas take on the Griffons in Nelspruit.
Saturday’s fixtures could prove decisive: SWD face a must-win clash against the Leopards, Boland can’t afford a slip-up against an improving Eastern Province in Wellington, and the Valke will target a big result against Border in East London.
The league phase of the #SACup is heading for a tight finish as six teams are still in with a chance of making the playoffs – more here: https://t.co/9bhYuTt2jD 🫡#LetsPlayRugby pic.twitter.com/OWCo84NZk0
— The Carling Currie Cup (@TheCurrieCup) May 4, 2026
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
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