Bath vs Leicester Tigers predictions for Saturday Gallagher Premiership Rugby affair. English rugby fans are in for a thrilling experience as Bath Rugby, currently the table toppers, prepare to defend their unbeaten start against a struggling Leicester Tigers team. Set in the scenic Recreation Ground, this match promises explosive action and heated rivalry. Read on for our free Rugby Gallagher Premiership predictions and betting tips.
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Match Live Saturday, 28th October at 3:05 pm In:
Bath vs Leicester Predictions
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Clash at the Rec: Bath Rugby and Leicester Tigers Renew Their Fabled Rivalry
Key Stats
– Leicester Tigers have a perfect record in lineouts this season and have secured the most scrum penalties.
– Bath’s goalkicking success rate sits at a league-low 36.4%.
Historically, Bath and Leicester’s encounters have been epic clashes, closely fought and often unpredictable. The numbers show Tigers leading the fray, having clinched victory in 119 of their 206 previous confrontations. But at the Rec, the home advantage seems to tilt slightly towards Bath, as they’ve triumphed in 54 out of their 100 encounters there.
Team Lineups and Changes
Bath Rugby: Their lineup displays a combination of experience and fresh talent. With recent wins bolstering their confidence, Johann van Graan, Bath’s head of rugby, has made several tactical changes, including eight alterations from their last victory over Saracens. The front row witnesses Beno Obano, Tom Dunn, and Thomas du Toit, while the second row introduces Josh McNally alongside Charlie Ewels. In a notable switch, Fergus Lee-Warner moves to the blindside with Miles Reid on the openside. The attack will be orchestrated by the harmonious duo, Ben Spencer and Finn Russell, as half-backs. The wings witness Will Muir’s return, partnering Joe Cokanasiga. Cameron Redpath and Max Ojomoh form the centre partnership, with Matt Gallagher securing the full back position.
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Leicester Tigers: Not to be outdone, the Tigers have also shuffled their deck. Head coach Dan McKellar brings in Welsh international Tommy Reffell for his season’s debut. Joining him will be Irish prop James Cronin, along with Harry Wells and Matt Rogerson. A noteworthy move sees Francois Van Wyk transitioning to the finishers, while young Emika Ilione is all set to mark his Premiership debut.
BettingTips4You Expert Analysis
The Rec has been a fortress for Bath, but numbers can be deceiving. While Bath boasts an impressive average of five tries per 80 minutes this season, their goalkicking success rate is a concerning 36.4%. Their main man Alfie Barbeary stands out, leading in carries, dominant carries, post-contact metres, and defenders beaten. The team’s tactics have leaned more on aggressive gameplay than on kicks, as they’ve recorded the second-fewest kick in play metres.
Leicester, despite their recent setbacks, still pose a significant threat. Players like Olly Cracknell and Cameron Henderson have shown immense defensive prowess, completing 25 and 24 tackles respectively in Round 2. Their team strength lies in their set-piece game, having won the most scrum penalties and maintaining a 100% lineout win rate. The man to watch here is Hanro Leibenberg, dominating attacking lineouts and boasting three lineout steals.
Predictions
Match Outcome: Considering the home advantage and recent form, one might be inclined to favour Bath. But given the historical edge and the sheer unpredictability of this fixture, backing Leicester with a handicap might offer value. Bath’s shaky goalkicking combined with Leicester’s strong set-piece game means this could be closer than many predict.
Tryscorer Prediction: Alfie Barbeary, given his recent form, is the man to watch. His aggressive gameplay, combined with his ability to beat defenders, makes him a prime candidate to cross the whitewash.
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