Super 14 Round 12

Hurricanes v Chiefs: This encounter kicked off an entertaining round of Super 14 matches played over the weekend. The Hurricanes had to work hard for this win but their experience was the difference in the end. Ma'a Nonu, in particular, had a great game and his numerous line breaks kept the men from the nation's capital on the front foot. The Hurricanes backline is one of the best in the competition and wouldn't look out of place behind an All Black forward pack. Unlike many other sides in the Super 14, they are benefitting from having players in their proper positions and have kept changes to a minimum. If their forward pack can deliver, and there is no reason why they shouldn't given their size and experience, then they will a force leading into the finals.

Crusaders v Stormers: The Crusaders had to overcome enormous odds if they were to win this one. First, they had to face the formiddable Stormers at home, were forced to wear those horrible grey outfits and deal with a referee that was determined to squash out any remaining chance they had of winning. The Stormers are the form side and beating the Crusaders by a record margin is no mean feat. The Crusaders were physical on defence and it rattled the Stormers. There was nothing in it until referee, Stu Dickinson, decided he was going to penalise the Crusaders out of the game. The fact that Richie McCaw didn't lose his cool was remarkable and almost any other leader would have lost his patience. Take nothing away from the Stormers, but this was a momentum turner and they never looked back.

Force v Lions: The Force were able to overcome an embattled Lions outfit that despite all their efforts, have yet to win a game this year. It's like training months for a marathon and coming last. Being able to beat 1 team or 1 person makes all the difference and at least gives you something to celebrate after all the hard work. If ever the Lions were going to win a match this season this probably would have been it but unfortunately the Force had other ideas.

Warratahs v Highlanders: What is it with the H?ighlanders lately? Why such a reversal of form in the past 2 weeks? They actually seem to be enjoying thamselves and are playing with real resolve and committment. It was the first time I have actually seen Jimmy Cowen smile at a post match interview. What's going on? The Warratahs, although they actually looked and played like they would have rather been tucked up in a warm bed, were genuinely outplayed. The Highlanders looked and played like the team of old. Where good old fashioned heart and spirit was combined with an appropriate game plan to down the opposition. Shame it's come to late.

Brumbies v Reds: The Brumbies were all over the Reds and unlike last week, everything seemed to click. The Reds looked tired and after 2 extremely tough matches they could be forgiven for not being at their best. The achilles heal for the Reds is their set piece. They held their own against the Bulls 2 weeks ago and although they came out on top on the scoreboard, they struggled against the Stormers. The brilliance of Will Genia and Quade Cooper has masked this flaw but not this time. They Brumbies were dominant in this area and took full advantage.

Bulls v Sharks: The Bulls had to work hard for this win but you always had the feeling they would. The Sharks don't give you an inch and they are like an old dog with a bone. They scrap, fight and claw their way through a match. kind of reminds me of John Smit!

Blues v Cheetahs: The less the said the better. The much improved Cheetahs won over the hapless Blues.