Lions too strong for Griquas at Ellis Park

The Suzuki Griquas fell to the Golden Lions in their final Currie Cup round-robin match on Saturday with the home side claiming a 37-7 victory at Ellis Park. Despite a spirited opening, the Lions’ second-half dominance proved decisive as they secured top spot on the Currie Cup log pushing Griquas to No 2 on the table.

Kick-off was delayed by more than an hour due to lightning but when play finally began it was the Griquas who struck first. Lourens Oosthuizen powered over the tryline within five minutes and George Whitehead added the conversion to hand Kimberley’s team a 7-0 lead. The early strike highlighted the Griquas’ energy and intent to unsettle their hosts.

The Lions, however, responded with tries from Henco van Wyk and Richard Kriel to move 12-7 ahead. Just before half-time, Mnombo Zwelenedaba was shown a yellow card for repeated infringements and Lions flyhalf Chris Smith slotted the penalty to give the Lions a 15-7 advantage at the break.

The second half was all about the Lions. Nico Steyn broke through for a try soon after the restart before Angelo Davids finished brilliantly in the corner. Quan Horn added another late on after a flowing move, with Smith’s accurate boot pushing the scoreline to 37-7. The Griquas continued to fight but struggled to regain territory and possession against the Lions’ pace and power.

Oosthuizen stood out for the Griquas, scoring the opening try and working tirelessly around the park. Zwelenedaba was active in midfield but his time in the sin-bin proved a turning point. Janco Uys impressed with his work rate, while the forward pack held their own in the scrums despite coming under pressure at the breakdown.

Although opportunities were scarce for the back three, their defensive effort and chasing game reflected the never-say-die spirit that defines the Griquas. The collective effort was clear, even if execution under pressure let them down at key moments.

The opening try came from direct, accurate phase play that caught the Lions off guard. However, once the hosts adjusted their defensive shape, the Griquas struggled to generate quick ball. Discipline also played a role, with Zwelenedaba’s yellow card shifting momentum firmly toward the Lions.

In contrast, the Lions executed their game plan with precision, using Van Wyk and Davids to bend the defensive line before moving the ball wide at pace. Their ability to punish turnovers, as seen with Horn’s late try, highlighted the clinical edge that separates the top teams in Currie Cup rugby.

After the game, the Griquas coaches acknowledged the challenge of facing a team in form. “We started brightly and showed what we’re capable of but against a side of this quality you can’t afford lapses in discipline and accuracy. I’m proud of the fight the boys showed,” was the message from the changeroom.

Fans on social media echoed that sentiment, praising Oosthuizen’s performance and the team’s early effort.

Although the result was not what the visitors hoped for the team’s fighting spirit remains strong. The lessons learned from Ellis Park this evening will be invaluable as preparations for their home semi-final are already in play. Kimberley can be proud of their team, who continue to embody the passion and resilience of Griquas rugby. Get your tickets early, as they take on the Toyota Cheetahs at Suzuki Stadium this coming weekend.

Scores

Fidelity ADT Lions – Tries: Henco van Wyk, Richard Kriel, Nico Steyn, Angelo Davids, Quan Horn; Conversions: Chris Smith (3); Penalties: Chris Smith (2)

Suzuki Griquas – Tries: Lourens Oosthuizen; Conversions George Whitehead (1)