Skipper Marsh confident Boland can finish the job despite narrow loss to Pumas

Despite the defeat, the Kavaliers showed attacking intent, scoring four tries and securing a losing bonus point to remain firmly in contention for a top-four finish.

Those two valuable log points keep Boland inside the playoff positions heading into the final round.

After taking a narrow 19-14 lead into the break, Marsh praised his side’s resilience but acknowledged that small lapses proved costly in the end.

"So obviously with regards to the result of yesterday's game, I am quite disappointed by how we let it slip. I think we confronted them physically because that is their strength, and leading at half-time, 19-14,  we went out they scored first. But big ups and compliments to my guys; they showed huge character to stay in the fight and to get a valuable two points out of this game," said Marsh

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With just one round remaining in the SA Cup, the stakes are clear, the top four teams will not only advance to the semi-finals but will also secure automatic entry into the Carling Currie Cup Premier Division.

Marsh says the equation is simple for Boland: a full five-point haul in their final fixture will remove any doubt about their qualification and strengthen their position on the table.

They are set to host Eastern Province at Boland Stadium in Wellington on Saturday, 9 May, in what is effectively a must-win encounter for the hosts.

The Kavaliers have built a reputation for being difficult to beat at home this season, with consistent performances at Boland Stadium boosting their campaign.

Marsh believes returning to familiar surroundings, coupled with vocal home support, could provide the edge they need in their decisive final match.

Photo credit: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images for the Border Bulldogs photographs