Southern
34pts
The Magpies have one mighty forward unit and have lived up to their billing as title favourites. Powerful No8 Mika Mafi takes some tackling and the arrival of the Pirates crew has given Southern’s pack an even more formidable feel. But outside first five-eighth Josh Ioane there is not a lot to fear in the backline. Rugby players love their "work ons" and it is definitely an area in which Southern can sharpen up.
Dunedin
30pts
Last year’s beaten finalist was undefeated this season until unravelling late in the game against an under-strength Southern side last weekend. The Sharks made too many handling mistakes and were on the wrong side of the penalty count. That said, Dunedin has a forward pack the equal of Southern and a bit more bite in the backs. Hard to see it slipping down the competition standings.
Harbour
26pts
If the Hawks had better discipline they would be higher up the standings. But as it is they are still a very dangerous side. Their last-minute, length-of-the-field try to snatch a draw with University last weekend was a reminder how devastating their backline can be. Lock Chucky Koroi has been a standout and outside back Sala Halaleva is elusive, fast and very willing.
Kaikorai
22pts
The defending champion made a slow start but has surged back into contention with three consecutive wins. It is the only side to beat Southern and has also tipped up University. Prop Jonah Aoina has been in the habit of scoring tries and, alongside tireless lock Blair Tweed, has helped the forwards muscle up. Still in a tight battle for the playoffs, though.
Alhambra-Union
21pts
The Broncos probably deserve a spot in the top four after an opening round in which they played some quite sparkling rugby. Narrow losses to Dunedin, Southern and University were all heartbreaking. Their backline has shown plenty of enterprise but perhaps their opponents are starting to smarten up on defence.
University
20pts
University has traditionally been a side which finishes strongly but recent results have raised the question of whether the students are really top-four material. Star first five-eighth Fletcher Smith has rarely been sighted and Dillon Hunt’s inclusion in the Highlanders has robbed University of a talented loosie. The team has also struggled following the departures of hooker Sam Sturgess and under-rated midfield back Shae Tucker. Speedy winger Gavin Stark’s injury absence has not helped, either.
Taieri
16pts
The Eels are very much in a rebuilding phase but there have been signs the team can improve on its record in the second round. It defended strongly to defeat Alhambra-Union two weeks ago and has won three of its last four games. The semifinals look out of reach but there is always next year.
Zingari-R
10pts
Zingari-Richmond has been more competitive than its lowly position suggests. But the second round can get awfully tough. And when the injuries mount up, the weaker teams tend to fall away. Alarmingly the Colours conceded 50 points against Harbour and 51 against Alhambra-Union.
Green Island
5pts
The Grizzlies had six wins last year but it is hard to see them matching that total this season. They have started the season with seven consecutive losses and last week’s 51-17 loss to Kaikorai was a worry. Could be a long second round.