The Cheetahs will be aiming to boost their chances of securing a spot in the PRO14 semi-finals as they face the Scarlets this Saturday, 2 December.
After a less than stellar showing in Port Elizabeth last weekend, the Scarlets are eager to redeem themselves when they visit the Toyota Stadium. Meanwhile, the Cheetahs, fresh off a solid 33-13 victory over Edinburgh, are powering ahead and looking to cement their playoff position with home advantage on their side.
Cheetahs v Scarlets | Saturday 2 December | Toyota Stadium | 19:35
Full-Time Result (80 Minutes)
Cheetahs 2/11 | Draw 25/1 | Scarlets 38/10
Cheetahs
Representing Bloemfontein with pride, the Cheetahs have demonstrated remarkable form this PRO14 season. Occupying third in Conference A as we head into Round 10, they sit 6 points clear of the Cardiff Blues and 6 points shy of Munster. While overtaking Munster to second spot might be a stretch, their consistent performances have placed their playoff fate firmly in their own hands — barring any dramatic downturns.
This Saturday, they’ll face the reigning champions Scarlets at home. With the international clash between Wales and South Africa in Cardiff this weekend, both teams will miss key internationals, providing an excellent opportunity for the Cheetahs to collect maximum points. The Scarlets narrowly escaped defeat against the Kings last week and may be vulnerable again, leading us to believe the Cheetahs could follow the lead of their South African rugby counterparts with a strong result on December 2nd.
Scarlets
The Scarlets from Llanelli present a much-different configuration without key players like Jonathan Davies and Scott Williams. Their last win in Port Elizabeth was lucky, and they may find trouble in Bloemfontein. Their forward pack was outmatched by the Kings, and defensive lapses were glaring. If they allow the Cheetahs similar freedom, they could face a tough, possibly humiliating afternoon.
Still, this is a championship-caliber team, even with these setbacks. Expect a stronger forward effort and much stiffer defence this time. However, their challenges on the road could see rivals Leinster and Ulster closing the gap in Conference B.
Our Verdict: Cheetahs at 2/11 (Favourite)
Without their seasoned internationals, the Scarlets are not the same force. Should the rainy weather forecast prove true, it might just top off a favourable day for the Cheetahs. Based on last week’s performances, this is an outing the Cheetahs will be keen not to lose.