Strong statement from Toyota Cheetahs in Guinness PRO14 opener
The Toyota Cheetahs made a strong statement in their season-opening Guinness PRO14 match against the Glasgow Warriors in Bloemfontein on Friday, as they powered their way to a big 48-14 victory, but despite putting up a good fight, Isuzu Southern Kings came up short against the Cardiff Blues in Port Elizabeth on Saturday, the visitors snatching a narrow 31-27 victory thanks to as superior second-half display.
The Toyota Cheetahs picked up where they left off after winning the Currie Cup a few weeks ago, outscoring the Glasgow Warriors seven tries to two for a convincing 48-14 win.
The Free Staters were in fine form from the outset, scoring three first-half tries for a 24-7 lead, and they added four more after the break while limiting the visitors to two in the match for the rewarding win.
Experienced scrumhalf Ruan Pienaar was rock-solid in his performance, scoring a try and kicking five conversions and penalty goal for 18 points, while Joseph Dweba (hooker) and Rhyno Smith (fullback) scored braces. Get the full match report here.
In Port Elizabeth, the Isuzu Southern Kings went down 31-27 against the Cardiff Blues despite delivering a spirited performance.
It was tightly fought first half as both teams threw everything at one another, but the Isuzu Southern Kings made better use of their chances in the opening stanza, allowing them to build up a 13-5 halftime lead.
The Cardiff Blues, however, fought back strongly in the second half, outscoring the hosts four tries to two to increase their tally for the match to five for the 31-27 victory. Click here for the match report.
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