Glasgow Warriors head coach Franco Smith has been unable to return to his native South Africa because of visa delays. Photo: Gerhard Steenkamp/BackpagePix
Currie Cup: Franco Smith delighted to add to Cheetahs trophy cabinet
After losing several players before the start of the season, the Cheetahs managed to rebuild and claimed a sixth Currie Cup title.
Glasgow Warriors head coach Franco Smith has been unable to return to his native South Africa because of visa delays. Photo: Gerhard Steenkamp/BackpagePix
The Free State Cheetahs were the toast of Bloemfontein on Saturday after holding off a spirited Lions side to win the Currie Cup final.
Franco Smith’s men led 31-7 at halftime, before being given a scare by the Lions, who scored 21 unanswered points – falling just short to suffer a 31-28 defeat.
Six of the best for the Cheetahs
This gave the Cheetahs a sixth Currie Cup title, their first since the last final played in Bloem, back in 2016 when they overcame the Blue Bulls.
For Smith, it was a second cup triumph at the helm, and a special one since the province had to rebuild, following a spate of player departures.
“It is always an excellent feeling to win the Currie Cup,” said Smith.
“This is the flagship tournament in South African rugby, and I hope it stays that way. #CurrieCupReloaded was a fantastic initiative this season, and it was great that the tournament was so competitive. It is a real privilege to finish as the champions.
“We started building again last year after several players left, and there is currently a dream at the union to win the Currie Cup and Guinness Pro14 in one season. The players worked very hard for this and all credit to them.”
Franco Smith
Grit hands Free State men Currie Cup title
The Cheetahs’ path to glory looked a straightforward one inside the first 40 minutes, when a strong forward display pinned the visitors in their own half.
Despite trading scores early on, the hosts would break away significantly towards the end of the half, heading to the tunnel with a more than comfortable lead.
However, the Lions threatened to stage a comeback of the ages, running in three tries, while keeping their opponents quiet.
The Cheetahs had to spend most of the second half protecting whatever lead they could salvage, and were eventually successful in the end.
Smith lauded his charges for the fight they showed.
“It was an excellent first half, but we ended up fighting to stay in the game. But I am very proud of the guys for hanging in for the win.”
Franco Smith
