15 September 2024 – Johannesburg, South Africa

In a weekend that epitomized the drama and passion of South African rugby, the Fidelity ADT Lions and the Hollywoodbets Sharks XV have booked their places in the 2024 Carling Currie Cup Premier Division Final. The stage is set for a climactic showdown at Emirates Airline Park next Saturday, promising a thrilling conclusion to a riveting season.

The Carling Currie Cup is more than just a tournament; it's a testament to South Africa's rich rugby heritage. Established in 1891, it stands as one of the oldest and most revered domestic competitions, a showcase of talent where legends are born and rivalries are forged. This year, as ever, it has delivered a spectacle of athleticism, strategy, and raw emotion, culminating in a final that promises to be unforgettable.

The first semi-final at Emirates Airline Park was a clash of titans. The Fidelity ADT Lions, seeking their first final appearance in five years, faced the defending champions, the Toyota Cheetahs. A fiercely contested first half ended 19-19, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess.

The second half was a rollercoaster of excitement. The Lions, propelled by the tactical brilliance of playmaker Sanele Nohamba, who scored a dazzling individual try and contributed crucial conversions and a penalty, surged ahead. Ethan Wentzel's dual tries and Victor Sekekete’s relentless efforts kept the Cheetahs in the hunt, but ultimately, the Lions’ superior second-half intensity secured their place in the final.

At Loftus Versfeld, the Vodacom Bulls and Hollywoodbets Sharks XV delivered a dramatic contest that went down to the wire. The Bulls led 23-19 at halftime but faced a spirited Sharks comeback. Despite playing with a man down, the Sharks managed to equalize at 33-33 by full-time, setting the stage for extra time.

In the extra period, the Bulls looked poised to clinch victory with a 40-33 lead, thanks to Stravino Jacobs’ second try. However, the Sharks, demonstrating remarkable resilience, leveled the scores once more with Trevor Nyakane’s crucial try. The drama intensified when a late penalty attempt by the Bulls’ Boeta Chamberlain fell short, allowing the Sharks to advance to the final on the basis of scoring more tries.

With both semi-finals showcasing intense, high-caliber rugby, the final promises to be a spectacular showdown. The Fidelity ADT Lions will host the Hollywoodbets Sharks XV at Emirates Airline Park on 23 September 2024 at 16:00. The match will be broadcast live on SuperSport, bringing the thrilling action directly to fans across the globe.

The Lions, energized by their dramatic semi-final victory, will look to harness the home advantage and capitalize on their attacking flair. Meanwhile, the Sharks, having demonstrated their grit and determination in a tense semi-final, will be eager to finish the season on a high.

In a season defined by breathtaking performances and nail-biting finishes, the 2024 Currie Cup Final is set to be a fitting climax. Rugby enthusiasts should not miss this opportunity to witness a match where passion meets precision, and where the quest for glory reaches its zenith.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]