Competition stays alive until the last round of matches - Byrne

There’s been a lot of challenge around the top 8 of a 12-team competition but the competition stays alive until the last round of matches.

This was highlighted by Swire Shipping Fijian Drua coach Mick Byrne as they prepare for their crucial round 14 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific clash against the Highlanders this weekend.

Byrne says teams are now vying for a spot in the 6th, 7th and 8th position in the Super Rugby Pacific points table and while there is a lot of excitement in the top 4, there is also a lot of competition in the bottom 4.

The Drua are currently sitting in 8th place on the points table with 21 points and a win this weekend could see them overtake the Highlanders and climb up to 7th place.

The Highlanders are sitting in 7th place with 23 points and will be out to defend their home turf and also try and keep their spot in the top 8.

A loss will see them slip down to 8th place and could slip further down to 9th place if the Western Force, who are currently sitting in 9th place with 19 points, secure a win over the Reds tomorrow.

A win for the Force will see them move into the top 8.

The Drua will take on the Highlanders at 2.05pm Sunday in Dunedin.

In other matches this weekend, the Chiefs will host the Hurricanes at 7.05 tonight, the Brumbies host the Rebels at 9.35 tonight, Moana Pasifika takes on the Waratahs at 4.35pm tomorrow, the Crusaders play the Blues at 7.05pm tomorrow, and the Reds meet the Force at 9.35pm tomorrow.