There were two tactical approaches at the weekend that went a long way to deciding two of the three Super Rugby playoff games. The Brumbies were extremely clever in their win against the Hurricanes, frequently turning down shots at goal and staying calm in the wake of the Hurricanes’ strong start, knowing that the visitors would have their moments in the game due to the sheer quality of their athletes.

Their conviction in this approach paid off in spades, with the Brumbies set-piece doing a number on their opposites. In particular, the decision not to take a gift three points in the 57th minute, when leading 28-21, was a masterstroke as James Slipper burrowed over shortly afterwards. By contrast, the Chiefs tightened up considerably against the Blues, playing straight into the visitors’ hands with an ‘up the guts’ strategy that went away from the strengths. Stephen Larkham got it right and Clayton McMillan didn’t. It sets the scene nicely for the Chiefs-Brumbies semi-final on Saturday - the Chiefs are a team under pressure after the loss to the Blues.

Harry Wilson of the Reds reacts during the match against the........

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