URC: Round 16 Predictions

With the Six Nations done and dusted, it’s time to strap in for the domestic season finale, with the race for the Top 8 in the URC starting to take shape.

Here are my URC predictions for Round 16.

Zebre v Cardiff

This looks like a good opportunity for the Zebre to open their account for the season, but I’m not brave enough to pick it, so I’m going for a narrow Cardiff victory. Cardiff by 6

Leinster v Stormers

This is actually a really tough pick, given the Irish Grand Slam celebrations that have continued most of this week. The Stormers have brought a strong squad and will be targeting a surprise win in Dublin, but even knowing all of that, I’m still backing the unbeaten Leinster. Leinster by 4

Benetton v Lions

I’m backing a home win here, based on Benetton’s form in front of their own fans, where they have only lost twice this season. Benetton by 7

Ospreys v Dragons

The Dragons seems to be getting worse, and haven’t won a match since October, so I’m picking another home win. Ospreys by 9

Connacht v Edinburgh

Edinburgh only have one win since October, and I can’t see them beating Connacht, who have won 4 in a row, and who haven’t been beaten by a non-Irish team since September. Connacht by 9

Scarlets v Sharks

I’m picking another home win here as Scarlets have been improving, whilst the Sharks are fairly unpredictable. Their away record isn’t too impressive, and I’m going with my gut. Scarlets by 2

Munster v Glasgow

The winner of this will find themselves in 4th place in the table, and home advantage is a big factor. Glasgow haven’t won away at Munster since 2014, and Munster seem to be timing their run to the playoffs pretty well. Munster by 8

Ulster v Bulls

Having lost at home twice in a row, the Bulls are slipping down the table with one win in their last 6, and they need to turn the ship around if they are to stay in the playoff hunt. I don’t think they’ll get anything in Belfast though. Ulster by 11