URC: Round 5 Predictions

I’m looking forward to this weekend’s fixtures, because there are a couple that might catch people out, and it’s a chance to move up the leaderboard.

Here are my URC predictions for Round 5.

Connacht v Leinster

Connacht beat Munster last week, but their record against Leinster is poor, and it’s probably worth backing the league leaders in the opening match of the round. Leinster by 11

Ospreys v Stormers

The home side shouldn’t be under-estimated in Swansea, but the Stormers should have too much and I think they’ll continue their unbeaten start. Stormers by 9

Lions v Ulster

The Lions have performed much better than expected so far, and return home after a successful European tour. Ulster are a step up in terms of calibre, however, and are a better team on paper. Ulster by 4

Sharks v Glasgow

The Scots caught plenty of people out last week by beating the Bulls, but they seem to be fairly useless outside Scotstoun, and so the Sharks should win this comfortably. Sharks by 18

Cardiff v Dragons

Cardiff have won 13 in a row against the Dragons, who seem to be on the decline again after that shock win over Munster. Cardiff by 7

Edinburgh v Benetton

The home side normally wins this fixture, and I can’t see a reason to back Benetton despite their strong start in home matches this season. Edinburgh by 9

Munster v Bulls

This is a tough one given Munster’s poor start, but this is their first match at Thomond Park, where the crowd might wake them up a little and they are tough to beat. Munster by 6

Scarlets v Zebre

A bottom-of-the-table clash to end the round, and I think the Zebre will be left on their own after losing this one. Scarlets by 13