Traditional style of Canes has it all over others

There is a noticeable contrast in styles among the Kiwi teams and the two sides doing really well are the ones playing traditional New Zealand rugby.

Both the Hurricanes and Highlanders are really good stories because they have been perennial strugglers in Super Rugby history. And what's significantly different about them, aside from their consistency, is the way they're playing.

They are actually enjoyable to sit down and watch. That's the most satisfying things about seeing these two teams who, at the start of the season, were probably outsiders if you had a bet.

The way they're approaching the game is a complete contrast to the other teams. They're playing a pattern and a structure that revolves around wanting to counter attack, being lethal off turnover ball, and being prepared to try things.

As they showed this weekend, they can strike from anywhere on the field and the players are all encouraged to express themselves. You can see the confidence oozing out of the teams when they get on a roll - it only takes one man to make a mini-break and the support lines just get flooded.

There's always a huge amount of enthusiasm to be a part of what's going to develop on attack and the players clearly recognise they've got something pretty good going synergy-wise.

You watch the more traditionally powerful teams in recent years - the Crusaders and the Chiefs - and they're probably more conservative than the Hurricanes and Highlanders.

The southern sides are doing well just by playing the way Kiwis appreciate playing the game, which is why they're enjoyable to watch.

I think, come the playoffs, they've got to continue expressing themselves. If they don't keep playing that type of rugby once it gets to finals time, if they start worrying about their game plan or worrying about the result, that's when the little moments of brilliance won't happen.

But before they even get to the playoffs, these teams have got to keep forging ahead and try to get home semis. Because if you want to win this competition, the easiest place to do it is at home.

Their goal shouldn't be to make the playoffs and think anything can happen - their goal should be to finish top of the conference ladder, play at home and if someone's good enough to come and beat you in your own back yard, then they're worthy winners.

I certainly know that from being involved with the Crusaders. Yes, we won titles away from home, but they were a hell of a lot easier on your home ground, in front of your supporters and enjoying your normal routine.

You'd think that if either the Hurricanes or Highlanders had to go to Hamilton or Sydney to try to win a title, it would be a hell of a lot harder. Especially given the recent playoff experience of sides like the Chiefs and Waratahs.

Experience is always good and if you can blend it with youthful energy, then you get a really good mix.

The Highlanders were in the playoffs last year, which is an advantage for them, getting a feeling for playoff rugby and what it's like to be involved. But the Hurricanes have plenty of world class players who have been on the big stage.

Their All Blacks have been in big games before so, to a degree, they've still got that experience factor.

Most importantly, though, the Hurricanes and Highlanders have got to stick by their mantra and believe that what they're doing will win them a title.