By Lucky Maree
Lovers of Currie Cup rugby would agree that the match between Griquas and the Free State could not be a better start to this year’s Currie Cup season.
To sweeten the deal, this match could not ask more interesting questions.
There was a time when the field at Windhoek Draught Park in Kimberley, previously known as Griqua Park, was a place where the visitors went for grass burns and painful tackles.
These days the surface is more forgiving but the commitment of the boys from the Northern Cape has not slowed down in the least.
While the Griquas are depending on enthusiasm and speed, as evidenced by Rosko Speckman on the right wing, the Free State have gone for experience, including Ruan Pienaar and Frans Steyn.
During the SuperRugby Unlocked series the Griquas did not win a single match, but coach Scott Mathie will be looking to change that trend.
After 15 minutes, to be honest, the Griquas have still not settled down. Basic errors cost them possession which leads to a dominant Free State forwards try that Ruan Pienaar converts.
Their second try, a replay of the first comes after 25 minutes.
For the Griquas, storm clouds are gathering on the horizon. Sadly, their forwards don’t look like they are anywhere close to competing with the Free State pack – and there is nothing to indicate that it will get any better.
Free State score another try that Griquas can do nothing about.
Halftime arrives and except for a dreadful yellow card decision against Rosko Speckman very little happens.
A few minutes into the second half, Free State score a converted try.
And then a bit of never-say-die determination gives the Griquas a converted try. No more than a minute later they do it again. Two magic moments the team can take with them when they have a beer after the match this evening.
The Cheetahs go on to score their fifth try with 18 minutes to go.
The Griquas are in for a tough tournament, but they have grit and character. Expect them to play their hearts every time they run onto the field. Their consolation try in the 79th minute is well-deserved.
Remarkably Ruan Pienaar, at 39 years of age, is still one of the best scrumhalves in the country.
Griquas (3 tries) 19-42 (5 tries) Free State.
Pictured above: Ruan Pienaar
Image source: Twitter
