17 Jul 2012

Highlanders coach says home advantage crucial in playoffs

6:24 am on 17 July 2012

The recently re-signed Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph says home advantage could give the South African Stormers franchise their maiden Super Rugby title.

The Chiefs finished second after losing to the Hurricanes on Friday night and have the first week of the playoffs off along with the Stormers.

The Reds stole the Australian conference and third place off the Brumbies while the Crusaders, Bulls and Sharks round out the top six.

Joseph believes several teams are capable of lifting the trophy but concedes the Stormers will be tough to beat.

He says teams playing at home will have the advantage.

This weekend the Crusaders host the Bulls and the Queensland Reds host the Sharks.