Valke edge Cheetahs in thrilling SA Cup encounter
Valke increases their change to qualify for the Currie Cup Premier Division.
Valke and Toyota Cheetahs supporters created an electric atmosphere at Barnard Stadium in Kempton Park on April 25, as the home side secured a hard-fought 43–36 victory in Round 7 of the SA Cup.
The Valke, chasing a Currie Cup Premier Division spot, boosted their qualification hopes with a determined performance against the Free State outfit, a match in which both teams were eager to collect maximum points.
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Both sides have faced challenges throughout the tournament, but neither held back in a high-intensity contest, with five points and bragging rights firmly on the line.
Photo: Masego Mashilo
Toyota Cheetahs player Sisonke Vumazonke admitted his side fell short on the day.
“Today was not a good performance for us. We made too many mistakes and played in the wrong areas. In the first half, we had control of the game, but in the second half, we went to sleep for the first 20 minutes and Valke played very well,” said Vumazonke.
“We can’t cry about the outcome now. It’s done. We have to reset and fight harder in the last two remaining games to qualify for the Currie Cup.”
The Cheetahs initially dominated possession despite Valke striking first through Godfrey Muzanargwo, with Sergio Stalmeester adding the conversion.
The visitors responded quickly to level the scores, while Valke were temporarily reduced to 14 men after Mosolwa Mafuma was sent to the sin bin.
The numerical advantage allowed the Cheetahs to build momentum, scoring three tries in the first half.
Mafuma later returned to the field and added a second try for Valke, but the visitors still led 24–14 at halftime.
Valke made tactical changes early in the second half, with Liam Kloosman replacing Wernich Aucamp, helping to shift momentum.
Stalmeester then crossed the line twice to put Valke in front at 28–24, before the Cheetahs fought back to regain the lead.
The match remained tightly contested as both teams exchanged tries in a gripping second half.
Ultimately, Valke sealed the win when Tylor Sefoor scored a decisive late try, securing a 43–36 victory and keeping their Currie Cup Premier Division hopes alive.
Valke head coach JP Immelman praised his team’s resilience and belief.
“This is why we coach. After the disappointment of the previous game, days like today make it worthwhile. You come back on a Monday and keep believing,” said Immelman.
“It is awesome to beat one of the big unions at home. I don’t coach to lose, I expect to win. What matters is the people in our circle who believe we can win, and the players delivered on that belief today.”
