Publications
Partners
Cape Town - After Saturday’s completion of the New Zealand Super Rugby derbies, the permutations are looking more promising for the Lions to top the overall standings.
The Hurricanes’ stunning 35-10 upset of the Crusaders was enough to see them win the New Zealand Conference, after the Chiefs came off second best in their tussle against the Highlanders in Dunedin, losing 25-15.
The Hurricanes are now top of the overall standings on 53 points, one ahead of the Lions, who face the Jaguares in Buenos Aires late on Saturday night (23:40 SA time).
The Lions sent a second-string team over to Argentina but will now fancy their chances of topping the overall log - which could see them host the final later in the tournament.
A win, draw or even a losing bonus point against the Jaguares would now be enough for the Lions top the overall standings.
QUARTER-FINAL SCENARIOS
Should the Lions finish top of the overall standings, they will host the Sharks in the quarter-finals. A loss (without a bonus point) for the Lions would see them host the Crusaders, while the Sharks would then travel to New Zealand to face the Hurricanes.
A Lions v Sharks quarter-final would also mean a Hurricanes v Crusaders derby.
Meanwhile, two quarter-finals have been confirmed.
The Stormers will host the Chiefs in Cape Town, while the Brumbies - who beat the Western Force 24-10 on Saturday - will entertain the Highlanders.
