Pressure on Stormers to beat Lions

Semifinal qualification for any of South Africa's top two teams in this year’s Super 14 rugby competition is by no means a formality yet. The Stormers and Sharks find themselves in a precarious six-way race for three play-off berths.

One home semifinal place remains, the Crusaders wrapped up their push for the semifinals with matches to spare.

Two South African teams in the semifinals is possible only if the Stormers beat the Lions at Ellis Park in a tricky encounter that sees the young Lions finding their feet and the Sharks score a victory over the erratic Waikato Chiefs in Durban. But the Chiefs are a dangerous proposition, they are still in the hunt for qualification.

Meanwhile, the New South Wales Waratahs, third with 39 points, must lose to archrivals, the Queensland Reds, away from home in Brisbane in a tough Aussie derby.

The Wellington Hurricanes must also lose a daunting away derby to the Auckland Blues in Auckland where no inch will be given as both Kiwi teams are still in contention.

It is fortuitous for the Stormers and Sharks that it is derby time down under, because anything can happen. The South African teams also play late in the weekend and will know what is expected of them.

The Stormers and Sharks are currently locked on 37 points each with the Stormers marginally ahead with a superior points difference.