Overview

• The Cheetahs won 47-31 over the Lions in Bloemfontein in round five, banking a bonus-point victory after a fast start.
• Four yellow cards underscored a fractious contest, with two first-half sin-binnings for the Lions and one for the Cheetahs in the closing stages.
• Prince Nkabinde was named Man of the Match for a decisive two-way display that included a first-half try.
• SA Rugby reported the win returned the Cheetahs to first place on points difference, with the Lions slipping to fourth.
• The Bulls confirmed a 12-player reshuffle for Sunday’s meeting with Griquas, promoting 19-year-old hooker Esethu Mnebelele, as a Griquas win would secure their semifinal spot.