Written by Darry Worthington for @Hollywoodbets. Follow them both on Twitter and Facebook now!
Saracens v Leicester Tigers | Saturday 02 January | Allianz Park | 17:15
The Saracens have shown formidable strength to stay unbeaten so far this season, overcoming a tough match against Wasps last week. They’re gearing up for another challenging encounter against the Leicester Tigers this weekend. While the Tigers haven’t quite found their rhythm in their domestic league, their performances in the European Champions Cup have been truly impressive.
This match is shaping up to be a true spectacle with talented players on both sides, promising rugby fans an absolute cracker.
To Win (80 Mins)
Saracens 1/4
Draw 26/1
Leicester 11/4
Saracens
The Saracens keep the wins coming. The English capital side faced a stern test last weekend versus local rivals Wasps at the Ricoh Arena. Many, including myself, thought Wasps might be the first to break Saracens’ unbeaten run this season. But the men in red and black showed exceptional class with a deserved away victory.
Key to their triumph was Owen Farrell – an English star in top form. Farrell not only crossed the try line but also kicked for 21 points including four penalties and a conversion. His tactical kicking kept Saracens dominant in territory, mostly attacking between the opposition’s ten-yard line and 22-metre area.
For this weekend’s clash, Farrell’s brilliance will be vital again. Leicester boasts a strong and fierce scrum front featuring Mako Vunipola, Jamie George, and Petrus Du Plessis. These chaps have impressed so far this season but haven’t been tested by such a powerful Leicester front. Dominance in the scrum and lineout will be essential, enabling Farrell to steer the game expertly.
Leicester
History hasn’t been kind to Leicester in this fixture — they’ve just one win in their past seven meetings against Saracens. Their sole victory was a narrow 4-point win at Welford Road last season. The Tigers’ last two trips to Allianz Park ended in heavy defeats.
To avoid a third straight loss at Allianz Park, Leicester must target the Saracens scrum. While Saracens’ pack is strong on the whole, their front row shines more with all-around play rather than scrummaging prowess. Marcos Ayerza and Matias Aguero, Argentine props famed for their scrummaging, are expected to start and bring their experience to unsettle the Saracens’ front row.
In the backline, players like Telusa Vaina and former Wallaby Peter Beatham will look to ignite attacks with their speed and excellent skills. However, they must be wary of Saracens’ aggressive loose forwards, who excel in tackles across the field.
Verdict: Saracens 1/4
The Saracens haven’t lost at home since November 2014, and I expect this trend to continue after the final whistle on Saturday.
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