Yesterday’s thriller, which saw the Hurricanes keep their hopes alive by beating the Chiefs long after the final hooter, brought good news and bad for the three South African sides which could still make the play-offs.

Now the Stormers know  all they have to do to top the log is beat the Rebels this afternoon.

That shouldn’t be a problem.  But the Bulls and Sharks, who started the weekend in fifth and sixth positions, have each been pushed down one place. Depending on how the Reds fare against the Waratahs this morning, the Bulls and Sharks face elimination.

On paper the Sharks face the more difficult challenge, as they  must beat their bogey side, the Cheetahs, to stay in contention.

The Bulls will have the luxury of knowing exactly what they need against the bottom-feeding Lions in the last game tonight.

 However, they risk coming unstuck if they try to manipulate the score to avoid a trip to New Zealand in the play-offs. 

It’s down to the wire for a super, Super tournament.