Some of the same issues remain but the Chiefs were able to see off the Cheetahs this afternoon while still playing short of their best.

John Kirwan's decision to replace first-five Ihaia West with Dan Bowden could be seen as either a pragmatic move or a desperate last throw of the dice.

Damian McKenzie was one of the Chiefs' best in their recent trip to the Republic, earning a third straight start in the No 15 jersey for this afternoon's meeting with the Cheetahs.

The last time the Blues boarded a return flight from Sydney with a victory smile alongside their boarding pass was back in 2003 when they won the tournament.

Chris Boyd’s side have made it six from six this season and their latest victims, the Melbourne Rebels, were dispatched 36-12 at Westpac Stadium in Wellington last night.

The Hurricanes have made no secret of putting extra emphasis on derby matches this season, with coach Chris Boyd suggesting they are worth "double points".

Players with big reputations all have signature rugby moments.

The Waratahs' third win of the season was their most valuable.

We're led to believe it takes courage for sports stars to take a stand. It doesn't always.

Israel Folau says there's no room for homophobes in rugby and he is certain homophobia is not a problem at the Waratahs.

Accusations of homophobic slurs have overshadowed the NSW Waratahs' commanding Super Rugby triumph over the Brumbies at Allianz Stadium.

The continued ill discipline in Super Rugby could lead to a serious, even tragic, injury if players aren't more careful, writes Justin Marshall.

If the Chiefs wish to break the unfortunate pattern they are following, the next fortnight presents an ideal opportunity.

In tough conditions in Durban with a numerical advantage after a rash of indiscipline, the Chiefs lost their way. Among that mess was Aaron Cruden, writes Wynne Gray.

An ugly game produced an ugly result for the Chiefs in Durban this morning.