OPINION: The status quo in Super Rugby remained this weekend with the Crusaders retaining their status as the only undefeated team left in the competition.
With the international break fast approaching in just six weeks' time, some teams are standing up to be counted whilst others - perhaps reflecting the failure of their union - are falling well short of what's required.
Here are five things we learned from the weekend.
1. Richie Mo'unga is a lock for the All Blacks' end-of-year tour
At the beginning of the month, Newshub reporter John Day made the call that Richie Mo'unga will be on the plane to Europe with the All Blacks for the end-of-year tour. Judging by how he's navigated the two games since his return for the Crusaders, that call seems to be absolutely on the money.
In Lima Sopoaga's absence, Mo'unga has cemented himself as the third best five-eighth in New Zealand, looking far more assured than in recent years. The maturity in his decision-making as well the direction he offers a fairly inexperienced backline has been hugely impressive.
2. Australian rugby is in its worst condition in memory
Just when you think Australian rugby can't get any worse after weeks of speculation surrounding the ARU board and the five Super Rugby franchises, the Waratahs go and plumb new depths. Disappointing on the field and off it in post-match interviews, you get the feeling that heads at the side are on the chopping board, and deservingly so.
3. The Highlanders are the Crusaders of last year
In 2015 and 2016, the Highlanders primarily fed on scraps and played counter-attacking rugby and were the best provincial side to do so in the world, rightfully reflected in their Super Rugby results. However, in 2017, the side's fallen flat with one-season coach Tony Brown seeking to change the style of rugby they play.
Resorting to a possession-driven continuity style of play, the team has found themselves going from side to side, much like the Crusaders last year, without the penetration to go forward.
4. Sunwolves are not going to be another case of the Force
The Sunwolves could have easily capitulated against the Highlanders in Invercargill, but their bravery and their endeavour to be competitive earned them a very respectable scoreline. Their progress has been steady and they look like they could be a mid-table team in far less than 10 years, the time it's taken for the Western Force to develop their side.
5. TJ Perenara has overtaken Aaron Smith as the best halfback in New Zealand
Since 2013, Aaron Smith has been the incumbent All Black number nine but as the 2017 season unfolds, that is no longer the case. Perenara's second-half injection into the game against the Brumbies on Friday night showed just how valuable he is to a team, not just in his efficient passing and his movement around the ruck and maul, but the direction he gives to the pack.
The Highlanders struggles aren't doing Smith any favours and if he's not careful, he'll find himself third choice behind Perenara and Tawera-Kerr Barlow.
Matt Tewhatu is a digital producer for Newshub.
