SATURDAY
Bath v Newcastle
This season we’re still waiting for the West Country clubs to hit their straps but Newcastle aren’t in the best of form either.
Can Newcastle break their duck at the Rec?
I doubt it.
There’s really not much to say about these clubs and this match.
Verdict: Bath to kick start their season by 12.
Gloucester v Wasps
Gloucester flew out of the blocks in the opening game of the season against Bath but have since lost their way.
Wasps have had an unusually strong start to the season – they usually like to finish late – but it will be interesting to see how they fare without Cipriani. On his day, Walder can be a game winner but too often he’s off form..
Verdict: Gloucester to join Bath to make it a good day out West – by 5.
London Irish v Leicester
Will this be the battle of the contenders for the England 7 shirt? Armitage vs Moody.
Irish are right up near the top of the table just behind Saracens whilst Leicester find themselves in an unusual mid-table position.
Irish are on form and have firepower to burn in the backs.
Leicester have injuries and the Madejski is a hard place to go and win but the Midlands outfit know how to tough it out.
Verdict: Leicester by 3
Northampton v Sale
Northampton have got a buzz about them – they’re going places especially with the players they’ve got all along the backline. Geraghty is on fire, Clarke for me has the makings of a new Greenwood, and then there’s the back three who are the match of anyone in the Premiership.
This might be the time for a Charlie Hodgson special but the players who left last season have just left too big a hole.
Verdict: Northampton by 10.
Worcester v Harlequins
There are so many teams with an imperious looking back three, none more so that these teams.
With Miles Benjamin, Marcel Garvey and Chris Latham, Worcester have one of the most exciting back threes in the Premiership.
So what say Harlequins with Brown, Strettle and Monye, possibly the player of the season so far.
I fancy Worcester to take some scalps this season – especially with Ruddock and Sanderson at the wheel – but at some point Harlequins are going to turn around and give someone a pounding.Verdict: Worcester to win six points.
Verdict: Harlequins by 8
SUNDAY
Saracens v Leeds
It’s a question of how much?
Leeds aren’t going to get their first win of the season playing at the home of the streetwise, street tough Saracens.
Verdict: Saracens by 20
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