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Canberra - Hurricanes scrumhalf TJ Perenara says the defending champions are not favourites for the quarter-final clash with the Brumbies on Friday.
Even though the Hurricanes have won twice as many matches as the Brumbies, the match will be played in Canberra due to the Super Rugby format glitch.
"It is what it is, everyone knew the system before the season started. Yes we'd like to be at home, but if you told me at the start of the year we'd be in quarter-final anywhere, I would have taken it," Perenara told the Canberra Times.
The Brumbies have scored a measly 41 tries this season when compared with the Hurricanes' tally of 89 tries. The Hurricanes are defending champions and broke the Crusaders' unbeaten streak last weekend.
However, despite all the statistics swaying in favour of the Hurricanes, there is one statistic that is making Perenara approach the tie with caution.
Last season, the Brumbies humiliated the Hurricanes 52-10 in Canberra despite the Wellington outfit going on to win the entire competition.
And Perenara, who will continue to captain the side in regular captain Dane Coles' absence, admits that he does not have happy memories of playing in the Australian capital.
"We a got hiding here last year and throughout my career I don't remember coming to Canberra and ever winning. Everyone knows it's a tough place to come and get a win and we know we've got a big job ahead for us," Perenara said.
"We haven't talked about being favourites, that's external chat. Canberra is very tough place to play and the Brumbies is a very proud franchise and they're playing in front of their home crowd for a spot in the semi-final.
"Regardless of what results have happened in the season, when you come to crunch time, it doesn't mean anything. You can go through a season unbeaten then lose in the quarter-final and your season is done."
