2020-02-24 by Phantom
Column
Rugby 5 Pool Friday 28 February
M1. Waratahs v Lions
The Lions hit the road in some inconsistent form and they're not the easiest team to follow at the moment. The Waratahs haven't played anywhere near their capabilities and that could give the Lions some hope. Waratahs are favourites but not certainties.
M2. Edinburgh v Cardiff
Edinburgh are in great form and they should now go deep in the Pro 14. Cardiff are fifth in their conference and recent form doesnt inspire much confidence. Edinburgh are bankers.
M3. Leinster v Glasgow
Leinster are unbeaten in 12 and they show no signs of letting up. Glasgow are a good side and they have troubled good sides in Europe this season. Leinster should continue their march though.
M4. Gloucester v Sale
Gloucester have lost their last three matches as the wheels have come off what looked a promising season. Sale are second on the log and their form is hard to ignore at the moment. This could be a good match though. Two teams who love to run around meet.
M5. Colomiers v Oyonnax
This is a huge match in the quest for promotion to the French top league. Colomiers are top of the log but lost their last match. Oyonnax are fourth and on the up. This is a tough match to predict. Play wide.
Rugby 5 Pool 1 Saturday 29 February
M1. Reds v Sharks
A win for the Sharks would make their season a total success. It has already been good with two wins overseas. The Reds haven't looked where they need to be but they could click soon. Respect the Reds but fancy the Sharks.
M2. Stormers v Blues
The Stormers are absolutely superb. Still unbeaten and still top of the log in Super Rugby. They were a little off colour last weekend but the Blues have been off colour all season. The Stormers could stay unblemished.
M3. Bulls v Jaguares
The Bulls are still not at their best after a pretty frustrating match against the Blues last weekend. The Jaguares fell in Cape Town but most teams will. The Jags could run salt into the Bulls' wounds.
M4. Munster v Scarlets
Only three points separate these teams and both arrive in good form. Munster are always more formidable at home and that could swing things in their favour.
M5. Dragons v Cheetahs
Dragons could have the edge because of home ground advantage. The Cheetahs have proven to be bad travellers. This could be the one match the Cheetahs target before they head home. Treat with care.
Rugby 5 Pool 2 Saturday 29 February
M1. Racing 92 v La Rochelle
Both teams are in top form and this becomes a tough match to predict. La Rochelle have been peaking as the season wears on. Racing are a quality side. Both teams are well alive in the Top 14.
M2. Treviso v Ulster
Ulster should be too good. Treviso haven't kicked on this campaign and despite always being a challenge in Italy, Ulster should continue their path.
M3. Harlequins v Exeter
Exeter came back to form last weekend with a huge win. They should be much too good for Quins whose season has been rather bleak.
M4. Leicester v Worcester
Two woeful teams are involved here and this is a tricky match to call. Neither side has been worth following this season and now that they face off, calling a winner is hard.
M5. Northampton v Saracens
Saracens have practically given up after their huge points deduction. Northampton surprisingly lost last weekend but they are still alive in the Gallagher Premiership. A win is far more important for Northampton. They will be motivated here.
Rugby 5 Pool Sunday 01 March
M1. Kings v Connacht
The Kings have lost most of their games this season but they have improved lately. Connacht are not the best side around so the Kings will fancy a win on their return home. Play wide.
M2. Cornish Pirates v Nottingham
Pirates have wobbled a bit lately so they not the good things they would have been a few weeks back. Nottingham aren't the best side and their season is effectively over. Pirates are more likely to win.
M3. London Irish v Wasps
London Irish should get up in a close match. Both teams have chances to make the knockouts but they haven't taken the opportunity to climb the log. Irish just picked at home.
M4. Bath v Bristol
Bristol have been brilliant this season. They are third on the log and Bath have kept their form for a while. Bristol should sneak a narrow win.
M5. Yorkshire v London Scottish
Yorkshire are the worst team in England. They have lost every match and been thumped in every match they've played.