Waikato in pole position

By CHRIS RATTUE

Waikato are in pole position to get the all-important home advantage in the NPC finals after accounting for Auckland in Hamilton.

Home advantage seems paramount for the pretenders to Canterbury's crown, after the red and blacks launched from first gear into overdrive against North Harbour on Saturday night.

Just as a hushed Jade Stadium crowd began to think the unthinkable in the early stages of Canterbury's Ranfurly Shield defence, a Ben Blair run sparked a scoring blitz that brought back some reminders of the way the Crusaders destroyed New South Wales this year.

The golden rule against Canterbury is deny them the ball, which is easier said than done with the set pieces they have and the ability of players like Richard McCaw to win turnovers.

Anyone thinking about taking Canterbury's crown better be in good health, and it will definitely pay not to attempt the feat in Christchurch.

Waikato, on top of the NPC, face Northland at home and then shape up for a local Chiefs derby against Bay of Plenty in Rotorua - which is a home away from home for the Chiefs dominated side.

And one of the leading chasers, either Canterbury or Otago, could fall behind this week after their Ranfurly Shield clash. Waikato should hold on to top position.

At the other end of the table, Bay of Plenty lost a chance to ensure their first division survival with a heavy defeat against Northland in Whangarei.

Bay of Plenty have a tough finish against Waikato and Wellington.

Northland will be celebrating, even if it is just for at last scoring a win and some NPC points.

Few will give Bryce Woodward's men any hope in Hamilton on Saturday evening.