Currie Cup round 13: Preview
The 13th round of the Currie Cup is set to go over the weekend and with only two more games remaining in the round-robin, competition for third and fourth in the standings is coming down to
the wire. The Blue Bulls, Free State, Golden Lions and the Griquas all have a shot at the final two play-off spots.
Natal Sharks vs. Leopards
The Natal Sharks will host the Leopards in Durban over the weekend.
The Sharks will be looking to clinch first spot with a win over the Leopards this weekend. The Sharks suffered a stunning two point loss to the Golden Lions last week and will be keen on entering the second
round on top of their game.
The Leopards are guaranteed relegation and are now playing the role of the spoiler. Looking for positives heading into next season the visitors will be interested in spoiling the Sharks chances of clinching
top spot.
The Sharks are currently in first with 47 points, while the Leopards are in eighth with five points.
Blue Bulls vs. Western Province
The Blue Bulls welcome their rivals Western Province to Pretoria in round 13.
The Bulls have managed to climb their way into third spot and now have their eyes on second position with two games left in the season. With a win the Bulls are all but guaranteed a play-off spot. However,
if they suffer a loss they will once again be at risk of missing out on the second round.
Western Province continues to fight for top spot in the League and will be completely unwilling to hand a win to their bitter rivals. WP has an opportunity to help bump the Bulls out of the play-off picture
and will certainly do everything they can do to so.
The Blue Bulls are in third with 38 points, while Western Province is in second with 43 points.
Pumas vs. Griquas
The Pumas will host the Griquas at home in Witbank on Saturday
The Pumas are not able to make the second round, having earned only 17 points this season. However, the side is in perfect position to play the role of spoiler, as a win over the Griquas would end their
chances at the post-season.
The Griquas will need to run the table in order to get into the second round. They should benefit from an easy match-up against the Pumas this week, putting themselves in a good position to earn the fourth
play-off spot in the final week of the season.
The Pumas are in seventh with 17 points, while the Griquas are in sixth with 31 points.
Free State vs. Golden Lions
Free State will take on the Golden Lions at home in Bloemfontein this weekend.
Free State can lock up a post-season position with a win over the Golden Lions on Saturday. However, they will have to play some of their best rugby of the season as the Golden Lions have proven they are
desperate for a post-season berth.
The Lions have benefited from the development of some very skilled young players in the latter half of the season. Nevertheless, these players will have to continue to progress and win the final two games
of the year if they hope to qualify for the second round.
Free State is currently in fourth with 37 points, while the Golden Lions are in fifth with 35 points.
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