The Free Staters scored seven unanswered tries, with Joseph Dweba (hooker) earning a brace, to snatch their sixth win of the season and maintain their unbeaten status against the Isuzu Southern Kings in the competition.

The Toyota Cheetahs dominated the first half thanks to their committed attack and patient approach to take the ball through phases, and this paid off with three tries to none by the visitors for an encouraging 17-0 halftime lead.

They built on this form in the second half, adding four tries to their tally, while their unrelenting defence allowed them to keep the opposition scoreless.

Dweba scored his two tries from effective rolling mauls – in the 11^th and 29^th minute respectively – while Chris Massyn (flanker) scored their other first-half try from a pick-and-go after the team gained some good momentum on attack.

The Isuzu Southern Kings, meanwhile, battled to get their hands on the ball for a large part of the half, and when they did have possession they were unable to break through the defence despite getting close to the tryline on a few occasions.

They had a golden opportunity to score their first points shortly before halftime as after Toyota Cheetahs’ lock Walt Steenkamp received a yellow card for repeated infringements by the team, but again they battled to capitalise on their chances.

The Toyota Cheetahs continued to make their presence felt after play resumed and they added their bonus-point try in the 57^th minute compliments of Jasper Wiese (No 8) after some fantastic handling following a crucial turnover.

The Isuzu Southern Kings’ hopes of fighting back were dealt a blow soon after as Elrigh Louw (No 8) received a yellow card for a dangerous tackle, and Clayton Blommetjies (winger) pounced on this, scoring their fifth try from a quick tap.

Rhyno Smith (fullback) added his name to score sheet almost immediately after as he gathered a stunning kick from Blommetjies to touch down, and they maintained this burning form as the clock wound down with Louis Fouche (replacement back) forcing his way over the tryline with two minutes to play. This sealed a rewarding 45-0 victory for the Free Staters.

Scorers:

Toyota Cheetahs 45 (17) – Tries: Joseph Dweba (2), Chris Massyn, Jasper Wiese, Clayton Blommetjies, Rhyno Smith, Louis Fouche. Conversions: Ruan Pienaar (2), Tian Schoeman, Louis Fouche (2).