BLUES V CHEETAHS
Auckland, *5.35pm
SATURDAY
HIGHLANDERS V CHIEFS
Queenstown, *12.35pm
CRUSADERS V WESTERN FORCE
Christchurch, *5.35pm
Christchurch, *5.35pm
The Waratahs went close to beating the champs last week but don't let the result fool you - Canterbury took NSW lightly and could have put the match well beyond reach had they wanted to kick penalty goals. They refused and went for tries all night, some decisions paid off but most didn't. And this week they field the incomparable Dan Carter, who was "injured" last week. The Force have played admirable rugby this season and are real battlers, doing the basics right and defending stoutly. But this match will highlight the vast gap between NZ and Australia's best; the Crusaders will dominate. Second-five Aaron Mauger is starting to find his best form and his battle with Force golden child Matt Giteau will be the key. Both players are tremendously gifted but Mauger has so much more to work with outside him. Canterbury have lost lock Chris Jack and the Force are without halfback Matt Henjak, both through injury. You'll see the 'Saders at their fast and ferocious best.
Crusaders: L MacDonald, R Gear, C Laulala, A Mauger, C Ralph, D Carter, A Ellis, M Tuiali'i, R McCaw (c), R Thorne, M Paterson, R Filipo, C Johnstone, C Flynn, W Crockett. Reserves: T Paulo, B Franks, K Reid, J Leo'o, K Senio, S Brett, S Hamilton.
Force: D Mitchell, D Ioane, R Cross, M Giteau, C Shepherd, J Hilgendorf, C O'Young, S Fava, D Pocock, R Brown, N Sharpe (c), R Vedelago, T Takiari, T McIsaac, G Hardy. Reserves: B Cannon, AJ Whalley, L Doherty, M Hodgson, J McGrath, J Pelesasa, H Sare.
Ref: M Lawrence (SA)
REDS V SHARKS
Brisbane, *7.40pm
SUNDAY
STORMERS V LIONS
Cape Town, *1am
BRUMBIES V WARATAHS
Canberra, *7.40pm
BYE: Hurricanes and Bulls.
This story was found at: http://www.rugbyheaven.smh.com.au/articles/2007/04/05/1175366413562.html
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