Sharks in last chance saloon

This weekend’s Rugby 5 pool kicks off with the clash between the Highlanders and the Rebels.

At one stage this season the Highlanders boasted six wins and just two defeats. They have however, fallen on leaner times with just three wins from their next seven games. They are, however, already sure of a spot in the quarterfinals.

In Match 2 tournament favourites the Crusaders take on the Blues.

The Crusaders have not lost since round four and are on an 11-match unbeaten run. They are unbeaten at home this season and have won the last seven straight against the Blues. Moreover, the Blues have failed to win their last 18 matches in the New Zealand conference.

Match 3 is the all-Australian affair between the Waratahs and Brumbies. The Brumbies boast three wins in their last four matches against the Waratahs. The Waratahs, however, won their last clash earlier this season in Canberra. While the Waratahs have been high scorers this season the Brumbies boast the better defence. The Brumbies may be 10th on the points table, but only three other teams have conceded fewer tries.

The Lions host the Bulls in Match 4 of the pool.

The incentive is huge for the Lions, as a victory will see them win the conference. But they need to improve their form. They have just two wins from their last six matches.

The Bulls found some form last week and dented the Jaguares’ prospects of topping the conference. The Bulls have just one win in their last six outings against the Lions.

In the final pool match, the Sharks take on the wounded Jaguares. Both teams had their title dreams dented last week – the Sharks losing against the Stormers and the Jaguares were beaten at Loftus.

This is likely to be a highly physical encounter.