With the ABSA Currie Cup tournament drawing to a close, this is what is currently happening and what might be expected for the tow semifinal games taking place this weekend.
WESTERN PROVINCE vs LIONS
Western Province go into the match knowing
that victory will secure a home final for the first time since 2001 after they
claimed the title in Durban last year. Coach Allister Coetzee has a full set of
players to choose from with Captain Jean De Villiers making his return at 13,
partnering the in-form Damian De Allende.
Province went through the round robin
phase unbeaten and have only lost once at home this year .They beat their
opponents by 13 points two weeks ago, but semi-finals are always tightly
contested and the Lions have shown this season that they are a better side than
the -9.5 on handicap on Province suggests.
SHARKS vs FREE STATE CHEETAHS
There is a new sense of belief and buzz in
Durban following the appointment of Jake White as Technical Director .The KZN
franchise also has a new sponsor and they will be looking to end the season on
a high.
The Sharks have received a major boost with Bok star Frans Steyn
returning to action after a five month absence while the talented Pat Lambie
starts at 10.The Sharks won both their matches against the Cheetahs this season,
putting 50 points past the hapless visitors at Kings Park last month and more
of the same is expected on Saturday as the Sharks look to make up for the
disappointment of losing last year’s home final.
Cheetahs coach Naka Drotske
believes kicking will decide the game and has included Riaan Smit at wing. Smit
will take over the kicking duties having converted 15 from 15 this season.
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