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Suzuki Griquas coach Pieter Bergh says his side’s Currie Cup title proves there’s still space for smaller unions to thrive in South African rugby.
In a dramatic Ellis Park final, the Griquas edged the Fidelity ADT Lions 27–25, with veteran flyhalf George Whitehead slotting the winning penalty in the dying seconds.
"I'm so emotional right now. For a long time, we have said that there is space for the smaller unions in South African rugby, and hopefully this shows that smaller unions like the Griquas can do more than just compete against the bigger unions, with only a fraction of the budget."
George Whitehead wrote his name into Griquas folklore, kicking the decisive penalty to seal their fourth Currie Cup crown.
It was also redemption for the Kimberley outfit, who fell short in the 2022 final against the Pumas at home.
Bergh says the team’s belief has been rewarded and hopes it won’t take another half a century to celebrate again.
The Lions thought they had snatched victory when replacement flyhalf Lubabalo Dobela landed a late penalty, nudging them 25–24 ahead.
But a TMO review revealed a deliberate slap-down by a Lions defender moments earlier, handing Griquas one last chance.
Whitehead calmly converted the penalty, breaking Lions’ hearts and sparking wild celebrations.
Bergh says those final moments summed up the emotional rollercoaster of the contest.
The Griquas were massive underdogs going into the decider, especially after being thumped 37–7 by the Lions in the pool stages.
With the Johannesburg side tipped as favourites, the Lions looked in control for much of the match but never pulled clear on the scoreboard.
Bergh says their team motto, “find a way,” was exactly what carried them to one of the most famous wins in Currie Cup history.
" 'Find a way' has been our slogan for the whole year. I said to the boys before this final that the Griquas are renowned for playing with passion, and are known as a team that never gives up.
"I knew we had a good tactical plan in place, so I just asked for passion, hard work, and desperation."
