Pumas coach Jimmy Stonehouse and Griquas rival Pieter Bergh have identified execution and discipline as key to lifting the Currie Cup trophy in Kimberley on Saturday.
The Pumas reached their third final after edging the Cheetahs 27-24 in Bloem this past Sunday, while defending champions Griquas booked their place with a 52-12 mauling of the Lions at Griqua Stadium.
“We have to make sure we are solid in the fundamentals and also make sure we make as few mistakes as possible,” Stonehouse was quoted by Netwerk24. “If you can do those things well, there is a good chance that things can go well for you.”
The Lowvelders have already beaten Griquas in a Currie Cup final, winning 26-19 in Kimberley in 2022. They also defeated them in this year’s SA Cup final, although Griquas won their most recent meeting 38-14 in Nelspruit.
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Stonehouse wants his players to stick to their usual preparations despite the occasion.
“Make no mistake, the players are only too aware that it’s a final and what’s being said in the media and on social media. We’re going to follow our normal programme this week, but we’d like to go there and continue to make history.”
For Griquas, Bergh wants another composed performance after they surged into a 35-5 half-time lead against the Lions.
The hosts had to contend with wet conditions and strong wind in the semi-final, but Bergh was pleased with their set-piece and ability to convert opportunities.
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“We scrummed well again and our lineouts were good in the wind,” Bergh said. “And we took our chances when we got into their 22 area.”
Bergh knows the importance of another strong start, particularly after lightning disrupted proceedings around the semi-final.
“In playoff games you have to have good discipline and you have to take your chances.”
Griquas are chasing successive titles, while the Pumas are seeking their first since 2022. For Stonehouse, the opportunity also carries significance for players leaving the union.
“There are quite a few players leaving us. They now have the opportunity to say goodbye on a high note.”
Photo: Dirk Kotze/Gallo Images
The post Currie Cup finalists cook up plan for success appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Pumas coach Jimmy Stonehouse and Griquas rival Pieter Bergh have identified execution and discipline as key to lifting the Currie Cup trophy in Kimberley on Saturday.
The post Currie Cup finalists cook up plan for success appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
