MATCH-BY-MATCH GUIDE Friday 28 July

M1 Golden Lions v Griquas: Both teams were involved in high-scoring games last weekend and both lost. That the Lions will have their second-choice side again means they may struggle to beat the best Griquas has to offer. There were signs that Griquas can spring a few surprises this campaign in their narrow loss to the Bulls last Saturday.

M2 Crusaders v Chiefs: The Crusaders were typically workmanlike in beating the Highlanders 17-0 in a Christchurch quagmire last weekend. The Chiefs were full value for their win over the Stormers in Cape Town, but the trip back across the world will be taxing and makes them underdogs in this contest.

M3 Lions v Hurricanes: The Sharks showed everybody how to rattle an off-key Lions on Saturday but still couldn't get the job done. South Africa's best team won 23-21, giving themselves the right to host the Hurricanes in this semi-final. This is the first time this year they face a New Zealand franchise and they will need to improve dramatically on last week's showing to make the final. The Hurricanes were also tested last weekend, but got their act together at the end to defeat the Brumbies. Heart says the Lions will win, common sense says Hurricanes.

M4 Sharks v Pumas: The Sharks will add a few big names to their side this weekend, but their Currie Cup started poorly last weekend when they were smashed by the Cheetahs. The Pumas started their campaign with a good win over the Lions and can go to Durban and trouble the Sharks.

M5 Cheetahs v Western Province: The Cheetahs must have a great chance to win the Currie Cup again after their showing last weekend. Western Province also add some big names to their team now which will make them tough to beat. They had a bye last weekend too so expect a very spicy and entertaining match that could be pivotal to the knockout stages of the tournament.

R240 perm for Rugby 5 this Friday (pool closes 7pm Friday): M1 = 1, 4; M2 = 1, 2; M3 = 1, 4, 5; M4 = 1, 4; M5 = 1, 4.