We are nearing the halfway point of this unprecedented block of premiership games. The fatigue of the season is starting to show as is the impact of the international games. At the bottom end of the table they will already be counting how few games they have to get points. With all that in mind here are my round 15 predictions.
How did your round 14 predictions go?
5 form 6, which considering there was a draw is as good as a clean sweep.
Newcastle Falcons v Worcester Warriors
Falcons are in a rich vein of home form having won the last four games up north. This has climbed them up to 10th and seven points clear of relegation. Warriors have had a good win over Sale recently but otherwise have been picking up LBPs here and there. With Falcons form and Warriors only having won at home you have to go with the home win here in the battle of the Goode v Hougaard effect.
Newcastle Falcons by 5
Sale Sharks v Harlequins
Despite Cipriani’s kicking, Sale have been going well recently and are unbeaten at home all season. Quins in stark contrast are in struggling with the loss of their leaders to international duty. This is a clear case of Sharks inflicting Quins sixth loss in seven games.
Sale Sharks by 7
Gloucester Rugby v Wasps
Gloucester have been up and down all season even with a lack of call ups to the 6 Nations they are still failing to string wins together. Wasps on the other hand are the form team of the moment. Their performances may have fluctuated but they have still managed to get the wins with six on the bounce. All the signs are that Wasps will add a seventh to take a firmer hold on a play-off place.
Wasps by 10
Bath v London Irish
This is a meeting of two sides that have really disappointed this season. Bath have gone from finalists to lower table. Irish with their quality signings were expected to pull away from the relegation battle. Irish will be desperate for a win but they have all come at home this season. Bath will also be looking for some positive news to make sure relegation doesn’t even become a remote possibility.
Bath by 10
Saracens v Northampton Saints
Saracens have been heavily impacted in this international window and it’s shown up some chinks in their previously impenetrable armour. This weekend though they are back at home hosting Saints. Saints are still in the hunt of a playoff slot but are another inconsistent side. The performances have improved but I expect this to be a trip too far for them this season.
Saracens by 3
Leicester Tigers v Exeter Chiefs
Tigers have had a torrid February only managing to end a three game losing streak against Irish. To be fair only one of their losses this year have been at home but teams have now had sometime to look at their new attacking structures. Exeter also stumbled a little with two close losses but have taken points from every game this season. The spot light has moved away from them with Wasps sparkling form but they still sit second in the table. I’m going for a narrow away win but is that a heart rather than mind call being an Chiefs supporter?
Exeter Chiefs by 3
