So here we are at the final round of the league before we get to the playoffs. Two sides have qualified but there are still three teams going for the last two spots. Here are my predictions.
First here is a link to my review of the last round.
How did your predictions go in the last round?
4 from 6, I got the import games wrong. Hope I do better this week.
Bath v Gloucester Rugby
This game has no relevance and both these sides have playoff games to come. Ford was on Brian Moore’s radio show last weekend and committed to playing his topside. Due to their off weeks during the European competitions they are all fresh. The same can’t be said for Gloucester who went all the way in the Challenge Cup. I expect Gloucester to rest some of their starters on the bench and Bath to win at home.
Bath by 10
Exeter Chiefs v Sale Sharks
Exeter are in the last playoff place but only due to points difference. Their points difference is only 3 better than Saracens and they get London Welsh for their final game. So Exeter will need to win by 40-50 points to finish a head of Saracens. Sale do still have a chance of a 6th place finish so will be no pushover and so I’m backing a home win but not by a 40-50 point margin.
Exeter Chiefs by 15
Leicester Tigers v Northampton Saints
A titanic battle in any round but to end the season on such a game is an extra treat. Tigers must win to qualify for the playoffs and third. A loss would open the door to the Chiefs if they get their win. So with so much in the balance and being a local derby Saints will have to field a strong side. Also they will want to ride a wave a form into the playoffs rather than having to pick themselves back up. So I’m backing the runaway leaders to grab another win. But is this reason or just wishful thinking as I’d love for my Chiefs to make the playoffs for the first time.
Northampton Saints by 5
London Irish v Wasps
Wasps need the win to seal their Champions Cup place where as Irish have nothing to gain or lose from this game. Wasps away from hasn’t been as good as their home and they have to pick themselves up from a hard loss to Tigers last weekend. However I can only see Wasps signing off with a comfortable win.
Wasps by 10
London Welsh v Saracens
Saracens know they need a big win to make sure their playoff place and that’s exactly what I think they’ll get. As always they just need to make sure they build the lead and aren’t too impatient but this is an experienced side and so that shouldn’t happen.
Saracens by 50
Newcastle Falcons v Harlequins
The final game of the round is a dead rubber and both sets of players will be looking forward to their summer break. Falcons do have the capacity to surprise at home so they could send their fans into the summer with a warm glow. But I’m backing Quins to continue their improved form and finish the season on a high.
Harlequins by 5
