Super 14 weekend preview

SYDNEY - The battle for Super 14 playoff spots intensifies this weekend with the finishing line in sight.

The table-topping Crusaders take their 100 per cent record to the struggling Western Force in what looks a complete mismatch on paper, the Reds host the Stormers, the Chiefs entertain the Cheetahs, the Sharks meet the Blues and the Bulls face the Cats.

The Brumbies' playoff hopes were dented by a 37-14 loss to Australian rivals the Waratahs last weekend and they have not had much time to lick their wounds before taking on the Hurricanes, who are one place above them at fourth in the standings.

Wallaby backs Stephen Larkham and Matt Giteau miss out for the Brumbies through injury, while captain Stirling Mortlock faces a late fitness test on a shoulder problem.

Gene Fairbanks replaces Larkham at first five-eighths.

Force coach John Mitchell is running out of patience with his team, who have lost all nine matches in their first season, wielding the axe for Friday's Canterbury match by dropping prop Dave Fitter and first five-eighths Brock James.

"Dave is an excellent scrummager but we are demanding more from him around the field in attack and defence, and we are not getting that at the moment," Mitchell said.

"Brock's form has been a little indifferent in terms of controlling the game, so it's important we get started with Scotty Daruda."

Mitchell is also without injured Wallaby hooker Brendan Cannon, while the Crusaders make seven changes from the team that crushed the Cheetahs

All Black backs Aaron Mauger and Caleb Ralph return to the stating line-up, the former set to play his 100th successive Super match.

With four rounds of matches remaining, South African side the Bulls have the best chance of breaking into the top four to earn a semi-final place.

The Bulls, five points adrift of the Brumbies in fifth spot, take on the Cats who have won only once all season. The Sharks are locked together on 22 points with the Chiefs, Highlanders and Blues who they play on Saturday in Durban.

The Reds tackle the Stormers in Brisbane, with young first five-eighths Berrick Barnes expecting a physical challenge from South African opposite number De Wet Barry.

"They will rush up and hit hard but we think we know how to play them," Reds coach Jeff Miller said.

- REUTERS