Each day our exclusive MATCH OF THE DAQ service previews the big match of the day – usually a televised game.
As well as the preview we also bring you the head to head records of the two teams as well as a recommended bet on BETDAQ for the match.
Northampton Saints v Gloucester
Aviva Premiership Rugby
KO 15:00, Sky Sports 1
HEAD-TO-HEAD
(Max last 10 only)
n/a
PREVIEW
So after a long summer drought, Premiership rugby returns to our screens and Sunday’s big game sees Northampton Saints welcome Gloucester to Franklin’s Gardens. This summer has seen a host of changes at the club, including ten new signings.
The World Cup is obviously just around the corner, so the Saints won’t be able to call upon either of Chris Ashton, Courtney Lawes and Ben Foden. That does mean new signings Tom May, Noah Cato, Martin Roberts, Paul Doran Jones and Samu Manoa are all in line to start the match.
Saints have enjoyed a particularly strong pre-season, with impressive victories against Toulouse and Leinster on the road. A lot has been down to excellent play by the forwards and Saints can utilise their strength against the Cherry and Whites.
In contrast, Gloucester were beaten by Championship side London Welsh in one of recent warm-up games. They have also lost players to the World Cup, so a few of the fringe players will be able to get a run out. However, fans might remember that Gloucester pulled off the double over the Saints last season for the first time since 2006/7.
It’ll be tight game with some early season rustiness about, but in front of a lively Franklin’s Gardens I cannot see the Saints slipping up here. A home win by seven points is trading at around 1.83 on BETDAQ and I would recommend taking that price for the hosts to open with a solid win.
RECOMMENDATION: (1-10 points)
Back the Saints to win with -7 Handicap at around 1.83: 5 points
Saturday’s Return: -4 points
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