The Leopards ran in eight tries to beat the EP Kings 54-14 in Potchefstroom in their Currie Cup Qualifier, while there were also wins for Griquas and the Free State XV.

The Leopards scored four tries either side of half-time as they recorded just their fifth win of the season. Flyhalf Benhard Janse van Rensburg contributed 15 points, via five conversions and one try.

The hosts raced to a 14-0 lead with left wing Jaco Hayward completing a brace of tries after just five minutes. The hosts scored a further two converted tries through right wing Rowayne Beukman and fullback Gene Willemse, while lock Mthetheleni Fuzani crossed for the Kings’ first try as the Leopards led 28-7 at the break.

The Leopards drew first blood after the restart as Janse van Rensburg scored a self-converted try. Flankers Juan Language and Juan Jonck then crossed the line.

The hosts ran in two more tries through replacement wing Ryno Wepener and Language to complete the victory.

Meanwhile, the Free State XV overcame a two-point half-time deficit to beat the SWD Eagles 24-16 in George, while Griquas strengthened their position at the top of the table with a 37-14 victory against the Pumas in Kimberley on Thursday.

Leopards (54) – Tries: Jaco Hayward (2), Rowayne Beukman, Gene Willemse, Benhard Janse van Rensburg, Juan Language (2), Ryno Wepener. Conversions: Janse van Rensburg (5), Schalk Hugo (2).
EP Kings (14) – Tries: Mthetheleli Fuzani, Juan Jonck. Conversions: Garrick Mattheus (2).

SWD (16) – Try: Johan Steyn. Conversion: Hansie Graaff. Penalties: Graaff (3).
Free State XV (24) – Tries: Tienie Burger, Mosolwa Mafuma. Conversion: Sias Ebersohn. Penalties: Ebersohn (4).

Griquas (37) – Tries: Christiaan Meyer, AJ Coertsen (2), Ntabeni Dukisa, Mzwanele Zito. Conversions: Clinton Swart (3). Penalties: Swart (2).
Pumas (14) – Tries: Carel Greeff, Heinrich Steyl. Conversions: Justin van Staden (2).

Photo: Lee Warren/Gallo Images