Griquas look to rebound in Currie Cup after SA Cup disappointment

THE SUZUKI Griquas will turn their attention to the Currie Cup with renewed focus and a point to prove after falling short in their SA Cup title defence.

- DANIE VAN DER LITH

Coach Pieter Bergh's men came into the 2024 SA Cup final hoping to repeat last year's triumph, but a red card early in the game saw their campaign unravel in a 39-14 defeat to the Airlink Pumas in Nelspruit. Now, as the squad regroups during a short break, attention shifts to the demands of South Africa's premier domestic rugby competition.

Bergh is clear-eyed about the setback - but determined to use it as fuel. "Playing with one player down will always tire you out in defence because now you have to work extra hard," he said of the final. "But we've taken valuable lessons from the campaign that we'll carry into the Currie Cup."

BUILDING BLOCKS AMID THE DISAPPOINTMENT

While the final didn't go according to plan, Griquas' SA Cup campaign featured several strong performances. Emerging talents were blooded, and combinations tested - something Bergh sees as essential preparation for what lies ahead.