As an aspiring rugby journalist I sometimes write a story based on my opinion about the game, but I am always careful to back up that opinion with some facts, sometimes taking quotes directly from the law book, other times I present a rounded argument. But some of the inflammatory garbage that gets printed by our major newspapers makes me wonder if dropping a literary incendiary grenade and heading for the hills is what journalism is about.

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As the Super 14 heads into its final round, only the Crusaders are guaranteed a semi final appearance, while six other teams are fighting it out for the remaining three spots.

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In a nation where rugby is king, it is simply baffling how many people do not know the laws of the game but in New Zealand, ignorance seems to be no hurdle to voicing your opinion. What makes it worse, is when those in the media exhibit that same ignorance.

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In a close but error filled game, the Crusaders beat the Blues by 26-22 in front of a capacity crowd at AMI Stadium. The Blues were desperately unlucky, having two close calls go against them and another go in favour of the home team.

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With just four weeks left in the 2008 edition of the Super 14, the chasing pack will need to cause some upsets if they are to live to see the semi finals.

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As the Super 14 hits week 10, the Sharks and Crusaders have established a good lead at the top of the table, but with just three points covering third to eighth, points will be vital for those still in the semi final hunt, while those down the bottom of the table are playing for pride.

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The top two teams in Super 14, the Crusaders and Sharks, have established a small lead over the chasing pack, but there’s a real log jam developing with the Blues, Chiefs, Force, Waratahs and Hurricanes separated by just three points as they battle for two semi final spots. The clash between the Force and Waratahs could well decide those teams’ fates, while the others will need points just to stay in touch.

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Round 8 of the Super 14 has the Highlanders and Cheetahs with their best chance of racking up their first wins of the season, while the Sharks look to keep their unbeaten record intact in Wellington. But it is those teams in the middle of the table like the Brumbies and Chiefs who need the points the most if they are to keep in touch with the leaders.

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The old “game of two halves” cliché certainly applied on Friday night as the Crusaders beat the Waratahs 34-7 at AMI Stadium in Christchurch.

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Round six of the Super 14 see several teams fighting for their lives, others looking to get their seasons back on track and everyone chasing the unbeaten Crusaders and Sharks.

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