The seventh round of the Premiership Rugby season marks a thrilling return to domestic league action following the conclusion of the Autumn Nations Series. With top international stars returning to their club sides after a month of intense Test matches, the English top flight is set for a high-stakes and action-packed weekend.
During the Autumn Nations Series, while international players were away representing their countries, the non-international players were busy competing in the Premiership Rugby Cup. This competition provided an essential opportunity for fringe players, academy prospects, and those returning from injury to showcase their talent and make a case for inclusion in the first team.
As the Premiership Rugby season heats up with the return of international stars, here’s our prediction for the upcoming round, where exciting clashes and crucial battles for points are set to unfold.
Friday November 29th
Harlequins vs Bristol Bears – 19:45 KO, Twickenham Stoop
Bristol Bears reporter Ben Thorne said: “Ahead of Bristol Bears clash with Quins I expect the visitors to maintain their strong away form with another victory at the Stoop after a brilliant 53-28 victory in West London on the last time the two sides met. The addition of Bill Mata into the Bears back row adds another dimension to their attack which I think will make them too much for Quins, despite it being Joe Marler’s final game for the club.”
Newcastle Falcons vs Saracens – 19:45 KO, Kingston Park
Northern Rugby Reporter Daniel Wright predicted: “Premiership Rugby returns this weekend and Newcastle host Saracens at Kingston Park. The hosts have just one win in the league, but made the most of the international period. 3 wins from 3 has put them top of the Northern group in the Premiership Rugby Cup. Saracens have looked strong in most games this season and continue to be a strong contender for the top 4 come the end of the campaign. I think the visitors will take it by 20 points.”
London Rugby Reporter Jon Page echoed the such thoughts, backing the visitors with a win. “Newcastle Falcons will start with confidence, having won their last four games at home in all competitions. However, Saracens’ test stars such as Theo Dan, Juan Martin Gonzalez and Alex Lozowski will be too hard to contain for the full 80 minutes. Saracens to win by 20 points at Kingston Park.”
Saturday November 30th
Northampton Saints vs Gloucester Rugby – 15:00 KO, Franklin’s Gardens
Midlands Reporter Tom Harrington said: “Both sides flying high in the Premiership Cup, Northampton Saints unbeaten in their pool besting rivals Leicester Tiger and championship leaders Coventry, whereas Gloucester suffered defeat to Exeter Chiefs at the Kingsholm last weekend. Last time out the Cherry and Whites suffered a 90-0 humiliation to the champions at Cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens, so of course will attempt to avoid a repeat of this. With the return of internationals from the Autumn Nation Series, Saints win.”
Bath Rugby vs Exeter Chiefs – 17:45 KO, The Rec
West Country Reporter Bethan Croft predicted: “Both sides have had strong wins so far this season, with Bath only losing one game against the Bristol Bears. However, despite both sides previously winning their games with high results, I think Exeter will take the lead this time as they have already beaten Bath once earlier this year. It will be a close game though with both sides desperate to come out on top. I’m predicting a score of 24-14 to the Chiefs.”
Bath Rugby Reporter Sam Jess added: “The Premiership is back, and we have another West Country Derby as winless Exter travel up the road to play league leaders Bath. Bath should come out on top with Johann van Graan’s squad showing great depth, even if they are still missing a few internationals on rest.
“Bath’s record at home vs Exeter has been strong in recent times and with the likes of Will Muir, Joe Cokanasiga and Miles Reid all set to be involved they will have too much for Rob Baxter’s men. Bath Rugby 34-17 Exeter”
Sunday December 1st
Sale Sharks vs Leicester Tigers – 15:15 KO, Salford Community Stadium
Midlands Reporter Ben Grundy wrote: “It will be an interesting match in the north west. Sale’s form not quite that of Tigers this season, who look strong. However, Salford has proven tricky for teams in recent history to secure a result at. I think Sale will come out with high intensity and high physicality but will be threatened by a strong attacking back line. I think this ends up being a closer game than many may think and Tigers edge a 5 point victory over the Sharks.”
