What a bizarre weekend! There were some major upsets and suddenly the log has changed around completely from where it was a few weeks ago. Many teams will be rueing those one or two gaes were they have completely lost the plot and potentially damaged the Super 14 aspirations of chances of home advantage come  the playoffs.

Picks 3/6

Islanders (11) v Stompers (18)
Just when you think you’ve got the Stompers figured out, they will go and do the exact opposite. I should’ve known!
Whilst they still didn’t create much, the victory can be put down to the fact they got much better territory than they have enjoyed in all their other tour matches.
It effectively takes the Islanders out of the running.

Farce (55) v Lions (14)
The Lions were brought back down to earth with a completely inept display. Injuries have hit them hard but that is still no excuse. The Farce seem to be coming right at the right time of the season but still have to travel to SA yet.

Blues (24) v Reds (31) 
What a turnaround! 19 Straight games lost on the road. They lost last week at home. Yet away from home, against all odds, the Reds smashed the Blues. It was a lucky victory as it could have elevated the Blues to second place otherwise. The Blues still remain an enigma and I think they’ll miss out and rue this game.

Horrorcanes (56) v Brumbies (7)
The Horrorcanes now move in to first spot. What an awesome display. Confidence and inspired running rugby. They will now be looking for home ground advantage come the playoffs and remain the most dangerous team in the competition. But they can often have an off day so whilst they are formidable, you always fancy your chances. The Brumbies now look to be out of it, mentally I think they’ve done their dash.

Cheaters (20) v Crusaders (13)
The Cheaters showed what determination and perseverance can do. The Crusaders had beaten all other South African teams this year, but simply could not grind out one last win. It was an important win for the Cheaters, as it severely dented the Crusaders title aspirations. I think they’ll miss out now too.

Bulls (33) v Chiefs (27)
It wasn’t always pretty but it was effective. The Bulls don’t lose often at Loftus, and the Chiefs came up short. The Bulls will be disappointed not to have gained the bonus point, but it was imperative to secure victory first at all costs. Unfortunately the Chiefs did grab their bonus point, and they may be crucial at the end of the tournament. Bulls have a couple of easier games now and must win them before setting up what could be a must win game away against the Sharks.