URC: Semi-Final Predictions

Only 4 teams remain as the URC reaches semi-final stage, and there is guaranteed South African representation in the final.

Here are my predictions for the two semi-finals this weekend.

[Kick-off times UK]

Leinster vs. Glasgow Warriors

Glasgow’s record against Leinster is poor, with just two wins in their last 12 meetings and this should be a win for the home side. I say should because Leinster’s recent track record at the business end of tournaments is not good - they have regularly been the best team in the league, before blowing it at this stage and they are yet to win the URC title.

Will things change this year? You’d need to be brave to bet against them making the final, and if you need to pick an upset, it’s probably not this game. Prediction: Leinster by 8

Bulls vs. Sharks

This one looks more in the balance, and the Sharks won at Loftus as recently as February of this year. The visitors’ record is difficult to assess, because their team lineup changes so regularly, but they’ll be at full-strength for this one and determined to make the final.

However, the Bulls have been the more consistent side this season, and they were the more convincing winners of their semi-final, and they have home advantage, and they have a better track record in this competition, and Eben Etzebeth has been ruled out for the Sharks. It should be a cracker, the way South African derbies used to be! Prediction: Bulls by 4

How do your picks compare?