Griquaas, Pumas set the SA Cup pace as race hots up for Currie Cup spots

THE unbeaten duo of the Pumas and Griquas have been dominating the SA Cup, but a chasing pack are desperate to secure a place in the top four to ensure qualification for the Currie Cup Premier Division.

- MIKE GREENAWAY

Only one match was scheduled for yesterday, when Griquas hosted Eastern Province in Kimberley.

The defending champions Griquas are in rampant form and are heavy favourites to extend their remarkable winning streak, which has seen them win all matches so far since the start of the competition last year.

Today's full programme of four games — all of which start at 3pm - will see the Border Bulldogs hosting the Kavaliers in East London; the Leopards facing the Pumas in Potchefstroom; the Cheetahs welcoming SWD Eagles to Bloemfontein; and the Valke entertaining the Griffons in what promises to be an enthralling encounter in Kempton Park.

With only a third of the league phase remaining, a fierce race is developing below the Griquas and Pumas for the remaining two qualifying spots for the Currie Cup Premier Division.

Last year's inaugural champions, Griquas, and beaten finalists, Pumas, lead the chase with 25 league points each from their five bonus-point wins.