JON CARDINELLI rates the 15 Super Rugby teams based on performances after five rounds.
The Super Rugby conference system makes for confusing reading regarding the respective teams’ standings in the tournament. SARugbymag.co.za’s chief writer believes that this is where they should rank on current form.
1. Lions (4-1)
Last week’s ranking: 1
The Lions failed to impress in their 40-38 win over the lowly Sunwolves. They did enough to secure the victory, though, and stretch their lead to 10 points at the top of the South African conference standings.
2. Rebels (3-1)
Last week’s ranking: 2
The Rebels hang onto second spot despite their heavy 51-27 defeat to the Waratahs on Sunday. One can’t see them holding this ranking when the New Zealand sides start to build momentum in the coming weeks, though.
3. Highlanders (3-0)
Last week’s ranking: 4
The Highlanders made a statement with a convincing 25-17 victory over the Crusaders in Dunedin. They are the only unbeaten team in this year’s tournament.
4. Reds (3-1)
Last week’s ranking: 7
The Reds rocket to fourth place following their win against the Jaguares in Buenos Aires. They may struggle to maintain their winning streak when they travel to Cape Town in round six, though.
5. Hurricanes (2-1)
Last week’s ranking: 5
The Hurricanes maintained their ranking despite enjoying a bye in round five. This is due to the failings of the Crusaders and Blues in the New Zealand conference.
6. Waratahs (2-1-1)
Last week’s ranking: 9
The Waratahs bounced back this week with a big win against the Rebels. That result has boosted them up the Australian conference ladder. They are now five points shy of the log-leading Rebels.
7. Crusaders (2-2)
Last week’s ranking: 3
The Crusaders drop four spots after their defeat to the Highlanders in Dunedin. They may make up some ground in the coming week, however, when they host the Bulls in Christchurch.
8. Chiefs (2-1)
Last week’s ranking: 6
The Chiefs hit back in the second half to beat the Bulls 41-28 in Hamilton. Expect them to climb the ladder after facing the Sunwolves in round six.
9. Stormers (2-3)
Last week’s ranking: 13
The Stormers fired to thump the Blues 37-20 at Newlands. They have moved into second place in the South African conference. A win against the Reds next Saturday will strengthen their position in these standings.
10. Brumbies (2-2)
Last week’s ranking: 12
The Brumbies marked their first home game of the season with a win. The 24-17 victory over the Sharks will give them some confidence going forward.
11. Sharks (1-1-2)
Last week’s ranking: 11
The Sharks were out-muscled by the Brumbies in Canberra. They will head into their next clash against the Rebels in Melbourne desperate for a win.
12. Blues (1-3)
Last week’s ranking: 8
The Blues fall four places after recording a 37-20 defeat to the Stormers at Newlands. The coming bye should give them the opportunity to address some shortcomings before they host the Sharks in round seven.
13. Bulls (1-3)
Last week’s ranking: 10
The Bulls began the match in Hamilton with a bang, yet finished with a whimper. The Chiefs scored 27 unanswered points in the second half, and won 41-28. The Bulls may struggle to get up for their next clash against the Crusaders in Christchurch.
14. Jaguares (1-4)
Last week’s ranking: 14
The Jaguares suffered a disappointing loss to the Reds in Buenos Aires. They will be hard-pressed to bounce back when a full-strength Lions side visits in round six.
15 Sunwolves (0-4)
Last week’s ranking: 15
The Sunwolves pushed the Lions close in Johannesburg and claimed a losing bonus point. They only have two log points to show for their efforts after four games, though.
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