Ntokozo Makhaza scored two tries to help the Cheetahs beat Georgia in Bloemfontein on Friday night.

The 24-year-old former UCT winger, who was recently part of an extended Springbok squad, made a memorable debut in a match that celebrated the Free State Rugby Union’s 130 anniversary with a 24-2o win.

Makhaza opened the scoring midway through the first half, finishing a counter-attack sparked by left wing Banie Britz. Britz then dotted down himself, chasing down a clever kick from flyhalf Ethan Wentzel.

Georgia finally struck after the half-time hooter, with right wing Shalva Aptsiauri scoring to make it 14-7.

Georgia wing Shalva Aptsiauri intercepted early in the second half and raced 80m to score his second, before a penalty from Cohen Jasper edged the Cheetahs back in front.

Two penalties from flyhalf Tedo Abzhandadze gave the visitors a 20-17 lead but substitute fullback Clayton Blommetjies then sent Makhaza away down the right wing for the match-winning try.

It was the Cheetahs’ 11th win in 32 matches against international opposition, and a confidence boost ahead of the 2025 Currie Cup.

Georgia’s full-strength team will face the Springboks in Nelspruit next Saturday.

Photo: @CheetahsRugby/X