Super12 2002 - Round Eight

All three Aussie sides are back in action at home this week, and as the regular season draws closer to its conclusion, every victory and every bonus point becomes vitally important. How will the Aussies fare this weekend? Let's take a look.

Reds v Bulls

After an exhausting encounter with the Stormers last week, the Reds will relish the opportunity to play the ugly ducklings of the Super12 at Ballymore. Whilst it would be fair to say that this is the proverbial 'danger match' for that very reason, the Reds showed enough signs of life against the Stormers to suggest that this should be an emphatic victory.

Reds by 21.

Waratahs v Highlanders

After a disappointing loss to the Blues, the Waratahs really do need to win this match to stay on track for the semi-finals. They have the advantage of playing at home and of coming off a bye, and the Highlanders have been a little less impressive over the past couple of weeks. If the forwards secure some decent ball, and the backs manage to hang on to it, the Waratahs should have too much in the tank for the New Zealanders.

Waratahs by 12.

Brumbies v Hurricanes

The Brumbies will be overwhelming favourites going into this match, and with good reason. But we know that the Hurricanes are capable of anything on their day. Their forwards have found some discipline and structure, and so the big guns of their backline are being given the opportunity to shine. The Brumbies will win at home, but it will be closer than one might expect.

Brumbies by 7.

The Rest

* Crusaders v Stormers @ Christchurch - Crusaders by 10.

* Cats v Blues @ Bloemfontein - Blues by 18.

* Sharks v Chiefs @ Durban - Sharks by 14.

- Dan Fowell