Cheetahs bow out of Super Rugby with 20-21 over Kings

Kings 20-21 Cheetahs, Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium
Scorecard

A late penalty from Niel Marais proved vital as Cheetahs came from behind to pip out Kings with a 20-21 win at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in the final round of Super Rugby clash on Friday.

This will also be their last appearances in Super Rugby and now both the South African teams are set to join Pro 12 from next season.

Fred Zeilinga kicked a fifth minute penalty to get Cheetahs off the mark but 14 minutes later, Makazole Mapimpi crossed over for Kings followed by a conversion from Lionel Cronje. The hosts went into half time with a nine point lead after a try from Wandie Mjekevu that came in the 34th minute.

Lubabalo Mtyanda further extended Kings' advantage in the second half with a touchdown in the 43rd minute following which Zeilinga and Cronje exchanged penalties.= as the home side maintained their 14 point lead heading into the final 15 minutes.

This is when Clinton Swart and Raymond Rhule scored tries for Cheetahs to give them hope but it was Marais, who held his nerve and kicked a conversion and the decisive penalty that came in the 74th minute to complete a one point win for Cheetahs.