The Airlink Pumas claimed their third win in four outings when they defeated the Valke 42-36 in a high tempo clash at Mbombela Stadium on Sunday, March 29.

The result lifts the defending champions to third on the log with 17 points, keeping them firmly in the running as the competition approaches its midway point. The Suzuki Griquas top the log on 20 points, and the Dotsure SWD Eagles are second, also on 17.

Despite conceding an early try to Mosolwa Mafuma on Sunday, the Pumas rallied quickly and took charge through a superb first-half hat-trick from flank Ntsika Fisanti, whose powerful ball carries repeatedly breached the Valke defence.

Additional tries from Tiaan de Klerk and Jay-cee Nel ensured the hosts held a 28-19 lead at the break.

The Pumas extended their advantage soon after half-time through Gustav du Rand and Sango Xamlashe, with Clinton Swart’s flawless goal-kicking proving crucial.

However, the Valke refused to fade, hitting back with a penalty try and a late score by Marco Fuhri to set up a tense finish.

The teams will enjoy a break this coming weekend. When the action resumes, the Griffons host the Toyota Cheetahs in Welkom, the Leopards welcome EP to Potchefstroom, the Dotsure SWD Eagles travel to Kempton Park to face the Valke, Border face the Airlink Pumas in East London, and the Sanlam Boland Kavaliers and Suzuki Griquas clash in Wellington, all on April 11.