Staff Reporter.
The Toyota Cheetahs fought back from a halftime deficit to score three second-half tries that clinched them a thrilling 28-21 Carling Currie Cup win over DHL Western Province in a pulsating and entertaining game in Cape Town on Easter Friday.
The results sees the Cheetahs cut the deficit on the table-topping Vodacom Bulls, and the Free State side will be confident of reclaiming top spot with a game in hand over the Bulls.
WP went into the game with just one win this season, and fought bravely to lead 16-7 at half time, but were only able to come away with a losing bonus point and remain in sixth place.
While the Cheetahs took an early lead through Alulutho Tshakweni, it was the hosts who went into the break ahead of the scoreboard, thanks largely to Tim Swiel’s unerring boot and a wonder try from Tristan Leyds.
Province extended their surprise lead early in the second half when Angelo Davids scored in the 51st minute.
The visitors fought back when Louis van der Westhuizen went over, and David Brits scored to make it 21-21 going into the final quarter, before Van der Westhuizen notched up his second try to put the Cheetahs ahead in the 70th minute.
WP continued to pressure the Cheetahs’ tryline, but the visitors were able to scramble on defence and hold out for the win.
The Cheetahs deserved the win as they were more ruthless with their scoring opportunities but no-one would have begrudged WP if they’d scored late to tie the game.
Scores
Toyota Cheetahs 28 – Tries: Alulutho Tshakweni, Louis van der Westerhuizen 2 and David Britz; Conversions: Ruan Pienaar 4.
DHL Western Province 21 – Tries: Tristan Leyds, Angelo Davids; Conversion: Tim Swiel; Penalties: Tim Swiel 3.