Week 13 sees a crucial weekend for determining the makeup of the semi-finalists and just who will earn a home semi-final. I’m hoping for a massive favour and the chiefs beating the Horrorcanes so my Bulls can get top spot. I also believe it’s a “final” for the Sharks. In my mind they haven’t constructed much this year, and Jacobs has been influential in getting them tries from turnover ball. Pienaar will be the key. If he can’t produce a miracle, I think the Sharks are gone. My semi-finalists at this stage: Bulls, Horrorcanes, Chiefs and …Worrytahs or Farce.

Crusaders v Reds 
Crusaders are still in with a shot, but have to travel back from South Africa. The Reds have nothing to play for, but do surprise. They had a bad game last week, so they may get up for this. Even without McCaw, i’m picking Crusaders by 9.

Chiefs v Hurricanes 
A tight one. The Chiefs are putting alot of focus on this game and both teams are very similiar. They have average packs and lots of speed out wide. Neither team will be afraid to throw it out wide, so it should be free flowing and open. I’m backing the Chiefs mostly because I need them to win more! Chiefs by 8.

Lions v Islanders 
Oh dear…will anyone follow this game? A win to the Lions would be useful for final log position but in reality it doesn’t mean much. Islanders haven’t looked that good in the last few weeks, I think they’ve run out of puff and ideas. Lions by 8.

Brumbies v Blues 
The Brumbies have to come good to do me a favour in the last week! Unfortunately they don’t look as stable at the back wihout Gerrard. The Blues have been awful for the last 2 weeks, and could so eaasily have had a semi-final spot. The Blues defence has been almost non-existent. Brumbies by 10.

Sharks v Worrytahs 
The Sharks forwards last week showed they can dominate the opposition and create the platform for a decent victory. However the backs and tactical appreciation o the players has been the worst i’ve ever seen from them. Not even Pienaar can save the Sharks. The Worrytahs are borng and dull but play smart. Worrytahs by 9. Goodbye Sharks.

Bulls v Cheaters 
The Cheaters don’t even belong on the same field as the Bulls. They may have produced the odd upset at Loftus, but never again. Look for a massive forward battle, but greater consistency from the Bulls backs. Bulls by 10. Cheaters go back to Bloem!

Stompers v Farce 
Now the Stompers have been demolished, outplayed and have no chance, their team is breaking down left, right and centre. It seems fairly appropriate, and nothing is being laid down at this stage for next year. Farce by 12.