Preview: Super 14 final

All the odds point to the Bulls but the consistent Stormers represent a genuine threat in Sunday's Rebel Sport Super 14 final in Soweto.  Read more

Preview: Bulls v Crusaders

VENUE & TIME: Orlando Stadium, Soweto, Saturday May 22, 17.00 local, (Sunday 23 May 03.00 NZT).  Read more

Preview: Blues v Chiefs

VENUE & TIME: Eden Park, Auckland, Saturday May 15, 19.35 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 14 – Blues 8, Chiefs 6.  Read more

Preview: Crusaders v Brumbies

VENUE & TIME: AMI Stadium, Christchurch, Friday May 14, 19.35 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 17 – Crusaders 9, Brumbies 8.  Read more

Preview: Brumbies v Highlanders

VENUE & TIME: Canberra Stadium, Canberra, Sat May 8, 9.40pm (NZT)

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 14 – Brumbies 8, Highlanders 6.  Read more

Preview: Lions v Blues

VENUE & TIME: Ellis Park, Johannesburg, Saturday May 8, 15.00 local (Sunday May 9, 01.00 NZT).  Read more

Preview: Chiefs v Waratahs

VENUE & TIME: Waikato Stadium, Hamilton, Saturday May 8, 19.35 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 14 – Chiefs 6, Waratahs 8.  Read more

Preview: Bulls v Crusaders

VENUE & TIME: Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria, Friday May 7, 19.10 local (Saturday May 8, 05.10 NZT).  Read more

Preview: Hurricanes v Reds

VENUE & TIME: Westpac Stadium, Wellington, Friday May 7, 19.35 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 14 – Hurricanes 9, Reds 5.  Read more

Preview: Cheetahs v Blues

Back on home soil after a tough tour the Cheetahs will be looking to put the pressure on the Blues in Bloemfontein.  Read more

Preview: Hurricanes v Chiefs

It doesn't get any easier for the Chiefs, who have now suffered more injury woes, up against a Hurricanes team at home and on a mission.  Read more

Preview: Stormers v Crusaders

After 80 minutes of this clash in the lea of Table Mountain the Crusaders might have cause to regret their upset loss to the Force because the Stormers look favoured.  Read more

Preview: Highlanders v Waratahs

Attempting to stop a Waratahs train travelling a full pace looks a daunting task for the Highlanders even on a ground where Australian sides have tripped up so often in the past.  Read more

Preview: Sharks v Blues

It is crunch time for both sides in Durban, neither of whom can afford a loss. That should it make the contest all the more compelling on Sunday morning (NZT).  Read more

Preview: Highlanders v Hurricanes

Needing competition points should be sufficient incentive for the Hurricanes to avoid the sort of malaise which has marred its recent Rebel Sport Super 14 games with the Highlanders even if the game is in Dunedin.  Read more

Prevew: Chiefs v Cheetahs

Misery for the Chiefs since their return from South Africa should end when meeting the Cheetahs in Hamilton on Friday.  Read more

Preview: Blues v Force

Successive wins will have boosted confidence in the Force side, but disappointment from last week should prove the greater spur for the Blues at Eden Park.  Read more

Preview: Crusaders v Cheetahs

Another Crusaders win is shaping on Saturday as the Cheetahs excursion to Australasia reaches week three in the Rebel Sport Super 14.  Read more

Preview: Chiefs v Stormers

Hometown advantage has not applied to the Chiefs this year and will undergo a huge test on Friday in the Rebel Sport Super 14 match against the Stormers at Waikato Stadium.  Read more

Preview: Highlanders v Force

The Highlanders will have a match on their hands when they play the Force who are fresh off a big win over the Stormers. Both sides are struggling to win this season so a good result in Queenstown could provide a platform off which to finish the season strongly.  Read more

Preview: Crusaders v Waratahs

This battle between two of the top three teams promises to be a cracker. Although the Crusaders have history on their side, the Waratahs have been exceptional in 2010 and will push the red and blacks for the full 80.  Read more

Preview - Blues v Stormers

The Blues managed to dish out the Bulls' first loss of the season last week and will be looking to continue against the Stormers who are hurting after their loss to the Force. If the Blues can again demonstrate their ability to attack in all areas of the field, the Stormers will be needing all hands on deck.  Read more

Preview: Chiefs v Highlanders

After a scratchy win against the Lions the Highlanders meet a hurting Chiefs side that should have too much fire-power. The match will be won up front. If the Highlanders can ruin the Chiefs ball, like many sides have this year, they are in with a shot. Otherwise the Chiefs backline will cut loose and it with be a long night for Jimmy Cowan’s men.  Read more

Preview: Blues v Bulls

Undefeated at Eden Park against the Bulls, the Blues face a huge test on Saturday. The Bulls are top of the table, but looked average against the Force last week. They strike a Blues side that is in-form despite their results – should be a cracked.  Read more

Preview: Hurricanes v Crusaders

The Hurricanes have now dropped four in a row and it doesn't get any easier with the best of the New Zealand sides coming to town. The Crusaders have named their strongest line-up and it's hard to see them dropping this one.  Read more

Preview: Hurricanes v Sharks

The Hurricanes return to the capital desperately needing to rekindle their season, which won't be easy against an underrated Sharks side.  Read more

Preview: Cheetahs v Reds

The Reds were in hot form before the bye, but now face their toughest Test in the form of an African safari. Home town Support will give the inconsistent Cheetahs an edge, but the visitors should do enough to steal this one.  Read more

Preview: Highlanders v Lions

It is now or never for the Highlanders. Up against a winless, hapless Lions side – a win should be a given. But the House-of-Pain is not as formidable as it once was and the Lions like to attack.  Read more

Preview: Highlanders v Sharks

Back at home base the Highlanders have a great chance to extend the misery the Sharks have experienced this season in the Rebel Sport Super 14.  Read more

Preview: Crusaders v Lions

Life on the road doesn't get any easier for the Lions and even with a reduced Crusaders side, in terms of experience, it will be a daunting prospect in Christchurch on Saturday.  Read more

Preview: Blues v Brumbies

It's past time for the Blues to achieve consistency of performance and its 2010 campaign demands that it wins its home games and a return to Eden Park against the Brumbies should be a starting point.  Read more

Preview: Bulls v Hurricanes

Coach Colin Cooper has taken a big punt on selection changes to lift their Hurricane out of their inertia but the Bulls are playing so well it is an even tougher prospect for the Wellington-based side.  Read more

Preview: Chiefs v Crusaders

The Chiefs have recent history on their side against the Crusaders at home but will it be enough after a defeat to the Reds last week?  Read more

Preview: Cheetahs v Hurricanes

After seeing what happened to the Chiefs, the Hurricanes will be wary of taking the Cheetahs lightly in their Rebel Sport Super 14 clash at Bloemfontein.  Read more

Preview: Crusaders v Blues

It's one of the first big Rebel Sport Super 14 matches of the year between two old rivals now far enough into the season to be well and truly into their work.  Read more

Preview: Stormers v Highlanders

Stung by their loss to the Brumbies, the Stormers will be looking to make life difficult for the Highlanders in their Rebel Sport Super 14 game in Cape Town.  Read more

Preview: Chiefs v Reds

Back on home turf for the first time in the Rebel Sport Super 14 the Chiefs will be looking to show their fans the sort of form against the Reds that has them unbeaten so far this season.  Read more

Preview: Cheetahs v Highlanders

It's a tough assignment for the Highlanders after their tough game with the Blues and the Cheetahs are already riding high after their win over the Sharks in the Rebel Sport Super 14.  Read more

Preview: Hurricanes v Lions

Anything other than a comfortable Hurricanes victory in this Rebel Sport Super 14 match would rank as one of the greatest upsets in the history of the competition.  Read more

Preview: Crusaders v Sharks

After the shock of a loss at the hands of the Reds the Crusaders have every incentive to lift their effort against the Sharks in their Rebel Sport Super 14 clash on Friday evening.  Read more

Preview: Hurricanes v Force

Injuries have hit the Western Force hard, and after the encouraging start by the Hurricanes on the North Shore last week, this Rebel Sport Super 14 clash should make it two from two for the home team.  Read more

Preview: Lions v Chiefs

Last week's first round win gave the Chiefs a rare good start to the Rebel Sport Super 14 season, and they have the chance to build on that against the Lions on Friday (SA time).  Read more

Preview: Highlanders v Blues

Having each suffered losses in the Rebel Sport Super 14 first round both the home team Highlanders and the visiting Blues have plenty to play for at Carisbrook on Friday evening  Read more

Preview: Blues v Hurricanes

For two sides that are always well supported at the betting agencies, neither the Blues nor Hurricanes has delivered much in recent seasons. Both look promising in 2010 – the Hurricanes more so - but it's time to put some decent winning streaks together.  Read more

Preview: Crusaders v Highlanders

This southern battle will have every supporter singing just one song – can we please have something better than that ghastly match a year ago that set a new low for points scored in a Rebel Sport Super 14 rugby match? With Daniel Carter and Richie McCaw on one side and a solid-looking, experienced Highlanders team on the other, it isn't much to ask for.  Read more

Final Preview: Bulls v Chiefs

For the Chiefs, this is unknown territory – a Rebel Sport Super Rugby final. The Bulls know how to get the job done, having won the title two years previously, but will experience prevail over enthusiasm?  Read more

Semi-final Preview - Bulls v Crusaders

Home advantage is crucial for the Bulls and they are now favoured to beat the Crusaders and win the Rebel Sport Super 14 competition.  Read more

Week 14 Preview: Blues v Crusaders

By the time this Rebel Sport Super 14 match kicks off the Crusaders will have a fairly good idea of what's required for them to make the playoffs – a win will probably do it but a bonus point may be needed. The Blues will only have 80 minutes left in their season, whatever happens.  Read more

Week 14 Preview: Chiefs v Brumbies

What a way to open the final round of the Rebel Sport Super 14 competition – with a match between second and fifth on the ladder and both sides in the remarkable position where a win almost guarantees a playoff spot (it does for the Chiefs) and a loss could well be the end of the season.  Read more

Week 13 Preview: Brumbies v Blues

VENUE & TIME: Canberra Stadium, Saturday May 9, 7.40pm (AEST).
HEAD TO HEAD: Played 15 – Blues 9, Brumbies 6.  Read more

Week 13 Preview: Bulls v Cheetahs

Forget Pamplona - about this time every year the running of the Bulls takes place in Pretoria. The Bulls have often needed a big performance in the final two rounds and almost without fail thy have got it – a trend that should continue this weekend.  Read more

Week 13 Preview: Chiefs v Hurricanes

By Thursday afternoon Waikato Stadium was virtually sold out for this match, and so it should have been. Any number of people have complained this year's Rebel Sport Super 14 has been moderate at best, with just cause, but this match definitely should be one for the highlight reel.  Read more

Week 13 Preview: Lions v Highlanders

This is the only match of the round that has no bearing on the payoff race but both teams have pride and, in individual cases, national selection to consider when they take the field on Friday night.  Read more

Week 13 Preview: Crusaders v Reds

The Crusaders are facing a Rebel Sport Super 14 opponent they should dispatch comfortably but the official line is the home side is 'wary' of the Reds. They shouldn't be – the 2009 Reds are average at best – and the Crusaders need to be looking for a good win and five points on Friday.  Read more

Week 12 Preview: Stormers v Chiefs

This match features two teams who normally get hot about this stage of the Rebel Sport Super 14 competition, although it's too late for the Stormers in 2009 – which means the Chiefs really need to be concentrating when they hit the Newlands pitch.  Read more

Week 12 Preview: Sharks v Highlanders

Matches in Durban between these teams are often high-scoring and lop-sided, although not necessarily won by the form team. All of that makes for a very interesting prospect in the wee small hours of Sunday morning.  Read more

Week 12 Preview: Lions v Crusaders

No other series in Super rugby has provided so many high scores or lop-sided matches but perhaps the match two years ago, which the Lions won 9-3 at Jo'burg, might be a better pointer to what we can expect in this one.  Read more

Week 12 Preview: Hurricanes v Blues

While one-country battles in the Rebel Sport Super 14 are often tight and tense, the meeting of the Hurricanes and Blues sees the visitors at a huge disadvantage with a long injury list and still trying to recover from a shock loss to the 13th-placed Reds.  Read more

Week 11 Preview: Bulls v Chiefs

After the unusual results of last weekend this is third hosting first, an enticing prospect that may or may not be a Rebel Sport Super 14 playoff preview. Whatever happens later, it should be a top match on Saturday.  Read more

Week 11 Preview: Cheetahs v Crusaders

The Crusaders, having done the hard yards recently, will be very aware that failure against the Cheetahs will undo a month's good work in the Rebel Sport Super 14 so Todd Blackadder has resisted any temptation to make sweeping changes as his side faces the cellar-dwellers.  Read more

Week 11 Preview: Hurricanes v Brumbies

The Hurricane and Brumbies often provide interesting, close matches that are only decided by some late scoring action. With both teams still in the thick of the Rebel Sport Super 14 playoff race, this match promises to be another in similar vein.  Read more

Week 11 Preview: Blues v Reds

The only thing that one can see tripping the Blues up this week is complacency, as Pat Lam's men have suddenly begun to look like a Rebel Sport Super 14 contender rather than a win-one, lose-one mid-table threat and the Reds are on a slide into the table's nether regions.  Read more

Week 11 Preview: Highlanders v Stormers

With both teams almost certainly out of the running in 2009, pride rather than a potential playoff berth may be the biggest motivating factor at Carisbrook on Friday.  Read more

Week 10 Preview: Sharks v Crusaders

These two are traditional Rebel Sport Super 14 heavyweights and have staged some huge battles at Durban down the years but this time the Crusaders are playing for their playoff lives rather than just to determine their semi-final venue.  Read more

Week 10 Preview: Cheetahs v Chiefs

This match is considerably more important for the Chiefs than it is for the Cheetahs but, after last week's boilover, not one that the visitors can take lightly.  Read more

Week 10 Preview: Hurricanes v Stormers

If the Hurricanes are not concerned about this match it could prove to be a costly stumble on what should be the road to a playoff spot. The Stormers are a lot better than their 11th placing indicates and will be keen to demonstrate that.  Read more

Week 10 Preview: Blues v Highlanders

There will be a lot more than just the Gordon Hunter Memorial Trophy up for grabs this Friday at Eden Park – try an extended run at the playoffs for the winner but a bleak future for the loser.  Read more

Week 9 Preview: Cheetahs v Sharks

It's the old story of the top dogs lining up against the cellar dwellers when the Sharks take the field in Bloemfontein this Sunday (NZT). If the first eight rounds of the season are anything to go by it could be a case of Sharks feasting on Cheetahs in what should be a miss-match.  Read more

Week 9 Preview: Highlanders v Reds

The Reds make the trek into unpleasant territory this week, history is against them and with a Highlanders team looking to make their way into playoff contention this ensures to be a tough encounter.  Read more

Week 9 Preview: Blues v Lions

In the season to date both the Blues and Lions have shown they are quick on attack but not so flash of defence, so if running rugby and plenty of tries is what you like to see then this could be the game to watch.  Read more

Week 8 Preview: Sharks v Hurricanes

It's hard to shake the feeling the Sharks are building nicely into what should become a decent playoff run, although they have a bunch of tough matches to come. This is one of them, but the Sharks look strong enough to take it by 5-10 points in what promises to be an extremely physical match.  Read more

Week 8 Preview: Crusaders v Bulls

These teams are getting used to facing each other at the business end of the season and while this is not a playoff match it certainly has playoff implications. If you like it tough, rugged and don't care about a high score this could be the game for you.  Read more

Week 8 Preview: Chiefs v Lions

With the Chiefs suddenly the hottest ticket in town, one would like to think they'll draw like it on Saturday. If the last two weeks are anything to go by, those who turn up could be in for a show.  Read more

Week 7 Preview: Lions v Hurricanes

If the Hurricanes thought things couldn't get much worse, they now have to deal with the fallout from last Friday's Rebel Sport Super 14match, the long trip to South Africa and an improving Lions side that may actually draw a crowd to cheer them on. That's no easy combination.  Read more

Week 7 Preview: Highlanders v Bulls

The Highlanders deserve to be commended for the initiative of taking a match outside their area and one hopes it will be a raging success at the gate. The table-topping Bulls may have something to say about it being as successful on the pitch, though.  Read more

Week 7 Preview: Crusaders v Stormers

These teams featured in many pre-season selections but both made a mess of their starts and the loser of this match is in some bother. Given the even quality of the sides and the fact both can play good rugby at times, this promises to be a gripping game for the purist.  Read more

Week 7 Preview: Blues v Waratahs

The Waratahs head for Eden Park, a venue where they have never won, in danger of falling away from the head of the ladder and lying in wait is a Blues team that is also dead keen to fix some glaring issues.  Read more

Week 7 Preview: Reds v Chiefs

The Chiefs have a grand chance to cement their place among the top echelon of teams when taking on the Reds in their Rebel Sport Super 14 clash in Brisbane on Saturday.  Read more

Week 6 Preview: Highlanders v Cheetahs

If the Highlanders don't win this Rebel Sport Super 14 match, they are consigned to being pests for the remainder of the season. If the Cheetahs don't win it, the wooden spoon could well be heading their way. Fear of failure rather than positive thoughts may dominate Saturday's early game.  Read more

Week 6 Preview: Chiefs v Blues

As both teams begin to mount what could be a serious playoff assault, this Rebel Sport Super 14 match is one of those that will count double in the final wash-up. The fact it's a border battle only adds spice to what should be a quality contest.  Read more

Week 6 Preview: Hurricanes v Bulls

The first of the season's really big Rebel Sport Super 14 matches takes place a Wellington on Friday and even this far out it could have a big influence in determining the shape of the top four come mid-May.  Read more

Week 4 Preview: Blues v Cheetahs

Recovered from their jetlag and with a close call against the Sharks last weekend the Blues should be looking to hit the Cheetahs hard in their Rebel Sport Super 14 game at Albany on Friday.  Read more

Week 5 Preview: Highlanders v Chiefs

What a difference a week makes. The Highlanders face a tough opponent in the Chiefs in Invercargill, but will back itself in what is shaping as a tight encounter.  Read more

Week 5 Preview: Crusaders v Force

The injury-stricken Crusaders face a worrying time to avoid another defeat when meeting the Force in Christchurch on Saturday.  Read more

Week 4 Preview: Blues v Sharks

VENUE & TIME: Eden Park, Auckland, Saturday March 7, 17.30 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 16 – Blues 8, Natal/Sharks 8.  Read more

Week 4 Preview: Bulls v Stormers

The Bulls habve managed a win from all three games so far this season and are looking like adding one more to their tally against the Stormers. Although the Bulls were unlucky not to win against the Blues last week, beating the Bulls at home is a whole different story.  Read more

Week 4 Preview: Chiefs v Force

The Chiefs are still looking for their first win of the season and are under a lot of pressure to get a winning season underway. The return of All Black Richard Kahui is a welcome relief for the home team but they will have to be on top-form to beat the Force who claimed a well-earned victory over the Brumbies last week.  Read more

Week 3 Preview: Lions v Bulls

VENUE & TIME: Coca-Cola Park, Johannesburg, Saturday February 28, 17.00 local (Sunday March 1 04.00 NZT).  Read more

Week 3 Preview: Chiefs v Sharks

VENUE & TIME: Waikato Stadium, Hamilton, Saturday February 28, 19.35 NZT.
 Read more

Week 3 Preview: Brumbies v Force

VENUE & TIME:Canberra Stadium, Saturday February 28, 19.40 AEDT.

HEAD TO HEAD:Played 3 - Brumbies 2, Force 1.  Read more

Week 3 Preview: Waratahs v Highlanders

VENUE & TIME:Sydney Football Stadium, Friday February 27, 19.40 AEDT.

HEAD TO HEAD:Played 13 - Waratahs 10, Highlanders 3.  Read more

Week 3 Preview: Reds v Cheetahs

VENUE & TIME: Suncorp Stadium, Sunday March 1, 17.00 AEDT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 3 - Cheetahs 2, Reds 1.  Read more

Week 3 Preview: Stormers v Blues

VENUE & TIME: Newlands, Cape Town, Saturday February 28, 19.10 local (Sunday March 1 06.10 NZT).  Read more

Week 3 Preview: Crusaders v Highlanders

VENUE & TIME: AMI Stadium, Christchurch, Friday February 27, 19.35 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 17 – Crusaders 13, Hurricanes 3, drawn 1.  Read more

Week 2 Preview: Brumbies v Crusaders

No-one in their right mind could suggest the Crusaders can win this one without McCaw, McDonald and Thorn, who between them have amassed 255 Rebel Sport Super caps and 146 Test Caps. But this is the Crusaders and it just doesn't feel right tipping against them.  Read more

Week 2 Preview: Stormers v Reds

Another big ask for the Reds who, although they have won in Cape Town before, have lost their previous five encounters against the Stormers.  Read more

Week 2 Preview: W Force v Cheetahs

Word on the street suggests things have never been worse at the Force, despite their constant claims they all love each other once more.  Read more

Week 2 Preview: Waratahs v Chiefs

Traditionally these are tight encounters and we can see no reason why that won't be the case again on Friday night.  Read more

Week 2 Preview: Bulls v Blues

The Blues are about as understrength as they would ever possibly want to be and will have to be on top form to beat the Bulls this weekend.  Read more

Week 2 Preview: Sharks v Lions

The Lions will have their claws full this Saturday when they attempt to stop a Sharks outfit that already look destined to be a top-four team.  Read more

Week 2 Preview: Hurricanes v Highlanders

With both sides narrowly missing out on a win last week in the opening round, it will be desperation stuff as each team attempts to notch a valuable early Rebel Sport Super 14 win. With such huge things expected from the Hurricanes, the Highlanders won't have nearly as much to lose and will be looking to topple the boys from the capital city.  Read more

Week 1 Preview: Stormers v Sharks

This should be one of the biggest matches of the opening round, between two teams who don't like each other but who are both among the leading contenders for a top four spot come May. Even this early, a win might just count double in this heavyweight clash.  Read more

Week 1 Preview: Crusaders v Chiefs

Making bold predictions about either of these teams should come with a health warning – there are just too many unknown quantities in so many areas. That being so, neither can be written off as a playoff hopeful and they appeal as being two of the better teams in the 2009 field.  Read more

Week 1 Preview: Hurricanes v Waratahs

Q: What do these teams have in common that they would rather not share?
A: They both lost to the Crusaders in the 2008 playoffs.  Read more

Week 1 Preview: Highlanders v Brumbies

The Rebel Sport Super 14 season opener pits two teams who are not favoured to make the top four against one another, but it also gives us the first look at a couple of sides who might be a bit better than many people think. They have a history of tight matches, too, so this is not a bad way to get the 2009 season under way.  Read more

Final preview: Crusaders v Waratahs

The Crusaders' power will be well and truly tested by a determined, and capable, Waratahs side when the teams meet at AMI Stadium in what is shaping as a rousing finale to the Rebel Sport Super 14 season and the connections to the coaches of both sides.  Read more

Semi-final Preview: Waratahs v Sharks

While the Sharks showed what they can do in attack against the Chiefs last week, the Waratahs' defence is a vastly different proposition and should find a way to shut-out the men from Durban.  Read more

Semi-final preview: Crusaders v Hurricanes

Two long-standing rivals, the Crusaders and the Hurricanes, will produce an undoubted thriller in Christchurch to decide which side will represent New Zealand in next week's Rebel Sport Super 14 final.  Read more

Week 14 Preview - Sharks v Chiefs

With so many injury worries it is difficult to see the Chiefs being able to do enough against a Sharks team which has its own reasons for wanting a victory when they meet in Durban on Sunday (NZT).  Read more

Week 14 Preview: Crusaders v Highlanders

VENUE & TIME: AMI Stadium, Christchurch, Saturday May 17, 19.35 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 15 - Highlanders 4, Crusaders 11.  Read more

Week 14 Preview: Blues v Hurricanes

Plenty rides on this annual struggle between two old rivals - semi-final places for both, with the Hurricanes chasing a home semi, and the Blues just wanting a place in the final four of the Rebel Sport Super 14.  Read more

Week 13 Preview: Crusaders v Reds

A reward for the Crusaders' dominance of this year's Rebel Sport Super 14 is the ability to rest weary legs in the penultimate round of the regular season. There's still a multitude of class across the park to take on a Reds side hell-bent on defending their territory.  Read more

Week 13 Preview: Highlanders v Blues

At stake here is the vague playoff hopes of the Blues, along with the added motivation of the Gordon Hunter Memorial Trophy. Hunter was a hugely popular coach of both franchises, which adds an extra dimension to a clash that is already full of feeling as the southern men take on the city slickers.  Read more

Week 13 Preview: Lions v Chiefs

The Chiefs put the pressure on themselves when they lost to the Force last week and put a huge question mark on their semi-finals hopes, so a five-point win against the Lions is now crucial. The last-placed Lions have only pride to play for but will do everything they can to stop another New Zealand team from reaching the top four.  Read more

Week 13 Preview: Hurricanes v Force

What promises to be a real battle will occur on Friday night when the Hurricanes host the Force in Wellington. The Force showed they can beat the best when they downed the Chiefs in Perth last weekend and will try and upset another kiwi team attempting to secure a semi-finals berth. The Hurricanes will be really wanting to win this game and will hope for five crucial points in the dying stages of the round-robin competition.  Read more

Week 12 Preview: Force v Chiefs

The fourth-placed Chiefs head on the road for their last three round-robin matches as they chase a playoff spot. The first hurdle comes on the long trip to Perth, where the Force are all but out of the post-season race but are always tough to beat on their own patch.  Read more

Week 12 Preview: Hurricanes v Lions

Back at home, the Hurricanes have everything to play for in their last three games and the Lions are the first side to get in their way and Saturday's Rebel Sport Super 14 game is a chance for the home team to make an emphatic statement for the semi-finals.  Read more

Week 12 Preview: Crusaders v Sharks

Injuries have reduced the prospects of the Sharks being able to stop the Crusaders juggernaut in their keenly-awaited Rebel Sport Super 14 clash in Christchurch on Friday.  Read more

Week 12 Preview: Reds v Blues

The Blues have to overcome recent poor form, and a record that has seen them lose three out of three to Australian teams when they attempt to beat the Reds in their Rebel Sport Super 14 game in Brisbane on Friday.  Read more

Week 12 Preview: Cheetahs v Highlanders

The Highlanders could wipe out some of the frustrations of their season by beating the Cheetahs in their Rebel Sport Super 14 game in Bloemfontein on Saturday morning (NZT).  Read more

Week 11 Preview: Cheetahs v Hurricanes

VENUE & TIME: Vodacom Park, Kimberley, Sunday April 27, 19.35 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 3 - Hurricanes 2, Cheetahs 1.  Read more

Week 11 Preview: Stormers v Highlanders

VENUE & TIME: Newlands Stadium, Cape Town, Sunday April 27, 19.35 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 12 - Highlanders 9, Stormers 2, Draws 1.  Read more

Week 11 Preview: Chiefs v Reds

VENUE & TIME: Waikato Stadium, Hamilton, Saturday April 26, 19.35 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 12 - Chiefs 6, Reds 6.  Read more

Week 11 Preview: Crusaders v Blues

VENUE & TIME: Jade Stadium, Christchurch, April 25, 19.35 NZT.
HEAD TO HEAD: Played 14 - Crusaders 6, Blues 8.  Read more

Week 10 Preview: Bulls v Highlanders

VENUE & TIME: Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria, Saturday April 20, 1.00 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 12 - Highlanders 8, Bulls 3, Draws 1.  Read more

Week 10 Preview: Stormers v Hurricanes

VENUE & TIME: Newlands, Cape Town, Sunday April 20, 3.05 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 11 - Hurricanes 5, Stormers 6.  Read more

Week 9 Preview: Bulls v Hurricanes

VENUE & TIME: Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria, Sunday April 11, 5.05 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 12 - Hurricanes 7, Bulls 5.  Read more

Week 9 Preview - Blues v Brumbies

VENUE & TIME: Eden Park, Auckland, Saturday April 12, 19.35 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 14 - Blues 9, Brumbies 5.  Read more

Week 9 Preview - Crusaders v Lions

VENUE & TIME: AMI Stadium, Christchurch, Saturday April 12, 17.30 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 1 - Crusaders 0, Lions 1.  Read more

Week 9 Preview: Highlanders v Sharks

VENUE & TIME: Carisbrook, Dunedin, Friday April 11, 19.35 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 12 - Highlanders 6, Sharks 6.  Read more

Week 8 Preview: Waratahs v Blues

Both these sides won ugly last weekend, but they won – which is something they've been doing for most of the season. With the competition half over and the playoff race hotting up, the winner will make a real statement of intent on Saturday night.  Read more

Week 8 Preview: Hurricanes v Sharks

This is the match of the weekend, with two top-four sides going head to head. The all time series is the competition's most even and each team has won three times on the other's ground, and on current form it's hard to split them. Strap in – it'll be a real battle.  Read more

Week 8 Preview: Highlanders v Lions

This weekend's opener features two teams with one win between them, yet the big interest will be to see if the Highlanders can finally get an eye open on the scoreboard after a frustrating number of narrow losses.  Read more

Week 8 Preview: Brumbies v Chiefs

After grinding away through difficult starts and having a steady stream of key players off to the doctor's surgery, these teams still find themselves at the back end of the top group. The winner here stays in touch while the loser falls off the pace.  Read more

Week 7 Preview: Chiefs v Highlanders

The Chiefs kept a finger-hold on serious contention last week with a five-pointer over the Bulls but the Highlanders, after a fifth straight loss (all by less than 10 points) are already playing out the string and will provide nothing more than nuisance value in 2008.  Read more

Week 7 Preview: Blues v Bulls

If the Bulls are going to do anything other than make a nominal defence of their title in 2008, time has almost run out and they are in action at a venue where they have never won and taken a few thumpings into the bargain. It's a tough life, being at the top – even if that stay looks temporary at present.  Read more

Week 7 Preview: Hurricanes v Crusaders

One team on a six-match winning run, the other having won four straight – that sounds like a recipe for an outstanding match. When one realises that we're talking about the Hurricanes and Crusaders, the anticipation will click up a notch or two …  Read more

Week 6 Preview: Highlanders v Force

Although the Highlanders have won squeakers in the previous two meetings of these teams, they'll have to be at their best to maintain that record at Queenstown in Saturday afternoon's match.  Read more

Week 6 Preview: Blues v Stormers

These teams are starting to become a pair of evil twins – when one wins, the other does not. That record will continue this weekend but picking which twin will come out on top is far from easy.  Read more

Week 6 Preview: Chiefs v Bulls

This match at Rotorua is the Last Chance Saloon for the Chiefs (currently 10th) and the Bulls (11th) prepare for what is surely their final opportunity to make an impression on the 2008 competition.  Read more

Week 6 Preview: Crusaders v Waratahs

The weekend opener offers another of those intriguing match-ups between serious playoff contenders, with added spice due to the fact the Crusaders are one of only two remaining unbeaten teams.  Read more

Week 5 Preview: Blues v Force

The Crusaders may have trouble with the Force at Perth but the Blues have not had the same issues in the past and will be looking to make it three straight good wins when the sides clash at Albany in the Saturday evening contest. This time, however, we are not expecting a 30-pointer.  Read more

Week 5 Preview: Crusaders v Cheetahs

The Crusaders have racked up hefty scores in the last two meetings between these sides and, following a good tour of South Africa and Australia, will be looking for a hat-trick this Saturday on their return home.  Read more

Week 5 Preview: Brumbies v Hurricanes

While both these teams began 2008 with playoff aspirations it looks highly unlikely there will be room for both in the top four, so this match may well prove vital when the playoff scramble is on a few weeks from now.  Read more

Week 5 Preview: Chiefs v Stormers

For two teams trumpeted this season, as in most seasons, as being among the biggest threats to the regular playoff sides, 2008 has started in uncertain fashion and this match is a must-win if either side wishes to mount a serious challenge in May.  Read more

Week 4 Preview: Force v Crusaders

History, form and everything else says the Crusaders should pick up at least four points here, but two years ago the Force ended the Crusaders' record winning streak and nearly caused a massive upset when the match was drawn 23-23.  Read more

Week 4 Preview: Sharks v Blues

For the third week running two of the 2007 semi-finalists square off and this one promises to be one hell of a battle. Neither team has yet been beaten and both are looking likely playoff contenders, so a win here could be worth plenty in three months.  Read more

Week 4 Preview: Chiefs v Cheetahs

Week four might be a bit premature to talk of must-win games but the Chiefs are almost in that position. Many pre-season picks tipped them to be a playoff contender but any result other than a good win here will mean that for the third season running they will be off to the sort of poor start that may make recovery impossible.  Read more

Week 4 Preview: Highlanders v Hurricanes

The Hurricanes have shown a pleasing upward trend in results, even if there is still plenty of room for improvement on the field, while the Highlanders have come up just short three weeks in a row.  Read more

Week 3 Preview: Cheetahs v Blues

Having lost both previous matches to last-minute penalty goals, the Cheetahs will be hoping for a change of luck – but the Blues do not look like a team that will leave many crumbs lying around for the less talented teams in the competition.  Read more

Week 3 Preview: Highlanders v Waratahs

After comparing hard luck stories from the first two weeks, expect these teams to bash each other in what promises to be an uncompromising clash. Whichever pack gets on top will set its team well on the winning road, but superiority will not come easily.  Read more

Week 3 Preview: Hurricanes v Chiefs

These sides have mirrored one another in 2008, with a bad defeat in the opening round being followed with a scratchy win in the second. As for what's going to happen this week … Who knows?  Read more

Week 3 Preview: Stormers v Crusaders

While everything about this match points to a healthy Crusaders victory, the team will be only too aware that they have come to grief in Cape Town on more than one occasion – most notably in 2006 when they suffered their only defeat in a championship season.  Read more

Preview: Hurricanes v Reds

Both these sides attempted to play a fast-paced game last week, with widely differing results. The Reds claimed a rare first-up win over the Highlanders, while the Hurricanes were shut down by an aggressive Waratahs line-up.  Read more

Preview: Bulls v Crusaders

Less than 12 months ago these teams met in a rugged semi-final and this match also promises to be a high-intensity affair between two of this year's favoured teams.  Read more

Preview: Waratahs v Hurricanes

The last time these teams met, in the final round in 2007, the Waratahs gave a woeful Hurricanes side a bath at Wellington in a match that counted for nothing. This time it represents a meeting of two serious playoff candidates and a win here may well be worth double at the end of the season.  Read more

Preview: Blues v Chiefs

If the new ELVs are designed to speed the game up, these two sides are sure to see just how fast it can be played. A border battle and any number of talented players in both teams are sure to provide value for money in this Rebel Sport Super 14 thriller at Eden Park on Saturday.  Read more

Preview: Reds v Highlanders

While nobody seriously expects either of these two teams to be around at playoff time, a win in the opener could easily set up a better than expected season, while whoever loses will find that the Rebel Sport Super 14 14-week season just got a whole lot longer.  Read more

Preview: Crusaders v Brumbies

Two of Rebel Sport Super 14 rugby's most successful teams square off in the opener of what promises to be one of the most even competitions in years and both these regular playoff teams will be hunting for four points to kick-start their campaign.  Read more