VENUE & TIME: Carisbrook - Saturday - 15:35 AEST
HEAD TO HEAD: Highlanders 4 Reds 2
COVERAGE: Fox Sports
LAST TIME: Reds 33-22

WALKING WOUNDED
Highlanders flyhalf Tony Brown remains in serious doubt with a hamstring problem sustained against the Blues last Friday. It would be a massive blow if Brown missed the game, obviously not only for his kicking but also for his rock-solid tackling down his channel in defence. Is Laurie Mains playing games? Better news for the Highlanders was that utility back Romi Ropati is training strongly again and could find a spot as a replacement for the injured Aisea Tuilevu on the wing.
The biggest concern for the Reds is inside-centre Steve Kefu who is still struggling with a shoulder injury. A decision will be made late in the week with Junior Pelesasa, who scored a try against the Waratahs, set to start again if Kefu withdraws.

FORM
The importance of Tony Brown was emphasised when he landed five penalties to put the Highlanders ahead 15-3 at half-time against the Blues and was enough to withstand a spirited Blues' revival after the break for a 20-13 victory. It was the Highlanders' first Super 12 victory in Auckland and the first time a representative side from Otago won in Auckland for almost 30 years.
The Reds inflicted more Super 12 misery on the Waratahs with a 31-24 victory at Ballymore. The Waratahs are yet to win against the Reds in Super 12. It was an impressive performance by the Reds, particularly in the opening 25 minutes when they completely starved the Waratahs of possession and played some attractive football.

WHO'S HOT
Evergreen Highlanders winger Jeff Wilson had a blinder against the Blues. Was always dangerous in attack and some covering defence proved crucial in the final outcome. His side will need all his cool experience in this must-win clash against the Reds.
Reds captain and outside-centre Daniel Herbert had his best game for the season. With Stirling Mortlock and Matt Burke putting up their hands for Wallaby selection in the position, Herbie responded accordingly.

KEY MATCH-UPS
Jeff Wilson v Ben Tune
Tony Brown or his replacement v Elton Faltey
Taine Randell v John Roe

WE THINK
The old "House of Pain" bogey story is working overtime this week, and like last year when the Wallabies put an end to the myth, the Reds have to do the same and win their first game at Carisbrook. A win to either side will secure a place in the semi-finals it's as simple as that so a lot is at stake. The Reds can finish as high as second if they have a handsome win and the Waratahs get flogged, but could also slip to sixth with a loss. The Highlanders can finish as high as third or as low as sixth. If Brown does miss the game then the Reds should have a great chance. Reds by 7.