Round 2 Forecasts for Currie Cup
Revitalized Currie Cup Roundup
Get ready for a thrilling second round of the Currie Cup where home teams eye triumph this weekend, following the opening round's away side domination. Quintin van Jaarsveld pens this enticing preview.
The Pumas, Lions, and Bulls all secured opening victories on foreign soil, while the defending champions Cheetahs claimed home-ground advantage last weekend.
Two encounters on Friday include Griquas and the Sharks XV in Kimberley, and the Pumas squaring off against the Lions in Nelspruit. The weekend's crown jewel takes place in Bloemfontein, where the Cheetahs meet Western Province, with the round concluding in Welkom on Sunday as the Griffons challenge the Bulls.
Currie Cup Bets
Griquas v Sharks XV
- Friday, 12 July - 15:00Both teams hunt their first victory after home setbacks last week. Griquas stumbled against the Pumas, while the Sharks narrowly lost to the Lions, despite a strong start. The open-ended result follows the enduring challenges faced in the rugged Kimberley setting, where Griquas are expected to edge the contest.
Prediction: Griquas by 3.
Pumas v Lions
- Friday, 12 July - 17:15This enticing catfight promises a showdown in Nelspruit as the Pumas aim to affirm their title aspirations after a 20-point victory over Griquas. The Lions unveiled their typical resilience against the Sharks despite being outscored in tries. The settled Pumas squad should captivate the home fans with another dominating performance.
Prediction: Pumas by 7.
Cheetahs v Western Province
- Saturday, 13 July - 13:30The Cheetahs displayed force and tactical prowess in their 80-22 rout of the Griffons, hinting at a formidable title defense bid. However, they must address their disciplinary woes after conceding two yellow cards in the Free State derby. Competing against the weather-beaten Western Province, who faltered against the Bulls at home, the Cheetahs should continue their impressive form.
Prediction: Cheetahs by 14.
Griffons v Bulls
- Sunday, 14 July - 15:00The Bulls will tread carefully in Welkom, mindful of their painful previous visit that resulted in a shock 32-28 defeat to the Griffons. Regardless, expect the seasoned Bulls squad to outmatch the struggling Griffons, boasting more class and potency on the field.
Prediction: Bulls by at least 28.
Expert analyst Quintin van Jaarsveld, with over 15 years of experience, offers his insights, having previously worked for various sports publications like SARugby.com and Rugby365.com. Stay tuned for more updates as the Currie Cup progresses.
In the upcoming rugby matches of the Currie Cup, Griquas are predicted to edge out the Sharks XV by 3 points in their Friday encounter, as both teams search for their first victory following home losses last week.
On the same day, the Pumas aim to assert their title aspirations against the Lions in Nelspruit, with a predicted score of 7 points in the Pumas' favor, reflecting their dominating performance against Griquas in the opening round.
