Glasgow laid down a big statement as Munster and Blues also showed they could be contenders last weekend. Here is how I see the second round of matches panning out.
First here is a link to my round-up of all the action from last weekend.
How did your round 1 predictions go?
4 from 6, not great when you consider 3 were obvious.
Here are my 1 Line Predictions, read below for my reasoning.
Newport Gwent Dragons v Zebre
There’s probably a lot of analysis that could be made up for here but simply the Italian sides away very rarely win. Also whilst Dragons are the weakest Welsh side they are still historically stronger than the Italian teams.
Newport Gwent Dragons by 7
Edinburgh v Scarlets
Edinburgh were on the end of an impressive Cardiff performance last weekend and as I have been told on Twitter they can’t afford to start with 2 losses. But Scarlets were upset at home by Munster so they are in a similar boat. Scarlets look like they have a really decent side on paper but that might take some time to gel on the pitch. Also they need their forwards to provide some ball. I don’t know if Edinburgh will be able to do that but backing them to win at home.
Edinburgh by 5
Munster v Cardiff Blues
Both these sides had a cracking start to the season and would be getting more prise if Glasgow hadn’t stolen their thunder. I was a bit unsure of both these sides coming into the season but Munster seem to have responded to the new DoR well. Cardiff are looking good as well with their coach now in his second season and having been able to mould the squad. Still I think Munster at home will take this one but only by a score.
Munster by 7
Glasgow Warriors v Leinster
2 of the heavy weights in the Pro12 from the last few seasons go head to head. Glasgow saw off the champions last weekend and get the chance to do the same to the losing finalists this weekend. This will be our first real look at Leinster as they faced an Italian team at home last weekend. As we don’t really know where Leinster are at early in the season and having some disruption in their coaching setup. I’m going for the home team by a couple of scores.
Glasgow Warriors by 10
Connacht Rugby v Ospreys
Ospreys are another team that we are still waiting to see what they have got. They again had an easy home victory over an Italian side but you can only beat the team that’s put in front of you. Ospreys are another side that I’m hearing positive things about but we won’t know for a few more weeks in the season. Connacht really need to bounce back from that big loss against Glasgow to help their moral. Whilst they have lost a few players there is are still plenty of players who should bounce back after with their championship experience. So I’m expecting a much better performance from Connacht but still going for only a narrow home win.
Connacht Rugby by 3
Benetton Treviso v Ulster
Ulster are my dark horses to go well this season and maybe take the whole thing. So clearly I’m backing a TBP win over Treviso even though it is away.
Ulster by 15
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