The second round of the Gallagher Premiership gets underway this weekend, with Harlequins tackling Saracens in the pick of the bunch.
Saturday 17 September
Northampton 38/10 | Draw 25/1 | London Irish 19/10 (15:00)
The Exiles claimed a convincing win at home over Worcester a week ago but will face a much sterner challenge at Franklin’s Gardens; especially considering Saints’ defeat at the AJ Bell in round one. Irish are seen by a few as tournament dark horses, and they should yet have a competitive season, but may come unstuck against Northampton here. I’ll be on the (-4.5) handicap here at 8/13.
Harlequins 4/5 | Draw 22/1 | Saracens 20/21 (16:00)
Harlequins got their campaign off to a winning start in a hard-fought match at Kingston Park last week which would have teed them up nicely for what’s to come here. Sarries sat out the first round and there’s always the chance they may be a tad undercooked heading into this one. Get on the hosts to win on the board.
Wasps 4/6 | Draw 22/1 | Bristol 23/20 (16:00)
Wasps’ six-point loss at Gloucester in round one was a tough one to take, especially coming up against a very good Bristol outfit this weekend. The Bears are looking for a big push this season following their disappointing finish last time out and should have the edge over the hosts with 23/20 representing some pretty good value.
Leicester 1/20 | Draw 35/1 | Newcastle 8/1 (16:00)
The Tigers head into this one off the back of an opening-round loss at Sandy Park, which spells bad news for the Falcons. The defending champions should bounce back at Welford Road to inflict a second-straight defeat on Newcastle. I’m leaning toward one of the bigger handicaps on offer. (-17.5) at 17/20 for me.
Bath 23/20 | Draw 22/1 | Sale 4/6 (16:00)
Bath were just pipped by Bristol at Ashton Gate last week, but they’ll take a lot of positives from their performance – especially considering the horror show that was last season. Johann van Graan has obviously got new ideas for the side, and they could outthink Sale at The Rec here. For a bit of safety, I’ll on Bath to remain within the (+2.5) handicap at 17/20.
Sunday 18 September
Worcester | Draw | Exeter (16:00) *betting tba
Worcester will have it all to do against a Chiefs side that saw off the defending champions last week. The Warriors were well beaten by London Irish in the first round and they don’t look like a side capable of challenging the quality of Exeter.
