Boland brace for Lions in Currie Cup semi-final showdown

By Lonwabo Miso
11th September 2025

Sanlam Boland Kavaliers coach Hawies Fourie says there’s been little time to dwell on their 40–22 defeat to Western Province at DHL Stadium, with all focus now on Saturday’s Carling Black Label Currie Cup semi-final against the Lions.

Fourie admits their second-half performance was below par but believes they’ve addressed those shortcomings in training this week.

"We trained at a higher intensity and lifted the standards, so I'm very satisfied with how things have played out up until now.

"We know it will be a tough ask against the Lions, they've got a very strong side and they are playing quality rugby. We will have to be really sharp on the day."

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The Lions head into the semi-finals on the back of a dominant 37–7 victory over Griquas last weekend.

While Boland beat the Johannesburg side earlier in the season, Fourie warns that this will be their toughest challenge yet, with the Lions expected to bolster their squad with several United Rugby Championship players for the Ellis Park clash.

Regardless of the result on Saturday, Boland can be proud of reaching the playoffs in their first season back in the Currie Cup Premier Division since 2016.

Playmaker Juan Mostert has praised the coaching staff and the bond within the squad, saying their collective effort has been the foundation of the team’s success.

"What is really nice about this coaching staff, and medical team, is that they give us that space for us to express ourselves and to play with confidence.

"And playing amongst players that really work hard for each other, gives you as an individual player so much confidence."

Province’s win over Boland in Cape Town last week denied the Kavaliers a chance to host a semi-final in Wellington. Mostert says the community’s belief has been a driving force behind their fairytale run this season.