Cup classic in store as Lions host Province

Western Province flyhalf Demetri Catrakilis has a polished kicking game, but it is his distribution skills that have unleashed the team's strike runners effectively over the past fortnight and he will be aiming for more against the Golden Lions tomorrow.

The top-of-the-table Currie Cup clash is one to salivate over. It features not only the two best

attacks in the tournament, but also two of the best defences.

Both teams have 10 points and statistically there is very little to choose between them.

Western Province have had more carries (109) and more clean line breaks (12) and achieved more running metres (1119) than the Lions, but the Joburgers have scored more tries (13 to 10).

Either way it is shaping up to be a classic between two sides evolving into potentially great squads.

Western Province have changed their defensive, abrasive style into a more attacking approach to accommodate excellent runners such as fullback Cheslin Kolbe and wing Seabelo Senatla and it is working.

"I'm excited to get the ball into the hands of our great attacking threats out wide," Catrakilis said.

Sharks v Cheetahs

Former England international prop Matt Stevens will start for the Sharks when they welcome the Cheetahs to King's Park in Durban tomorrow night.

Stevens came off the subs' bench in the first two games against Griquas and the Pumas.

He will run on alongside loosehead Dale Chadwick who comes in for Thomas du Toit.

The youngster drops to the bench along with Lourens Adriaanse.

Bulls v Kings

Blue Bulls coach Frans Ludeke has made seven changes for his team's first home game against the Eastern Province Kings, expecting better decision-making from his players after two heavy defeats in their opening Currie Cup games.

There are four new faces in the backline and three in the forward.

Tony Janties will start at flyhalf, with Rudi Paige wearing the number nine jersey.

In other games the Pumas host Griquas at Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit tonight.