Pro12 Round 15 Predictions

The 6 Nations takes a break this weekend, allowing the European spotlight to return to the domestic leagues. While they may not be able to provide the same energy as the 6 Nations, this weekends Pro12 action should be good enough to hold us over until the tournament kicks off once again in a week’s time.

Matches to Watch:

Glasgow vs Munster:

It’s hard to believe that this is a rematch of the Pro12 final from a season ago, but that is the reality as both of these sides struggle to replace their legendary leaders, Alastair Kellock, and Paul O’Connell.

Munster welcome back Irish stars Tommy O’Donnell and Donnacha Ryan, who join the exciting 22 year old Jack O’Donoghue. Dave Kilcoyne will boost the mobility and danger of this very dangerous pack. They will be up against a very talented Glasgow pack, featuring Scotland internationals Gordon Reid, and Tim Swinson, while the Fijian monster Leone Nakarawa starts in the second row as well. It’s a full Scotland back row with Robert Harley, Chris Fusaro, and Josh Strauss all starting. Munster will need to cut down the space afforded to Nakarawa and Strauss, as both are devastating playmakers, capable of offloading anywhere. The battle between the two international fly halves Duncan Weir and Ian Keatley will be crucial towards the outcome of the match. Both have had their own problems with form, and will look to rebound ahead of the 6 Nations restart. Peter Horne and Rory Scannell are both good distributors at 10, but Scannell will have his hands full with the Glasgow utility back. Former 7s star Glenn Bryce will face off with 21 year old Munster outside center David Johnston. Johnston is untested, so expect Glasgow to throw plenty down his channel. Former Leinster flyer Andrew Conway has the footwork to leave Irish legend Brian O’Driscoll “red faced” in 1 on 1 drills, so expect to see him looking to counterattack early and often. Glasgow have plenty of size out wide with Sean Lamont and Taqele Naiyaravoro, two proven finishers.

Glasgow are notoriously difficult to beat at home, and Munster have not been playing well this season. Both sides must start winning matches now if they are to climb back into playoff position, but we suspect that it is Glasgow that will come away with a resounding victory. Munster will give a good fight, but without Conor Murray and CJ Stander, I can’t see them securing a win.

Prediction: Glasgow 26- Munster 12

Leinster vs Cardiff:

Last time these two sides met in Cardiff, a Jarrad Hoeata red card ensured a comprehensive victory for a Luke McGrath inspired Leinster. Cardiff have rebuilt well from their disastrous season a year ago, and will be more than ready to take on an inspired Leinster side, fresh off a 52-0 win over Zebre.

Cardiff will call upon Wallaby prop Salesi Ma’afu to stop Leinster’s Cian Healy and Peter Dooley on the tighthead side, while Joe Schmidt will be eager to see Mike Ross back in action for Leinster. 25 year old Cam Dolan is a rising star of USA rugby, and his athleticism will be a major asset for Cardiff whether it is in the second row, at flanker, or on the bench. Jordi Murphy and Dominic Ryan give Leinster plenty of experience in the back row, but they will need to be at their best against the likes of Cardiff’s Josh Navidi and Manoa Vosawai. Both sides have quality choices at 10, with Leinster choosing between Ian Madigan and Cathal Marsh, and the Blues having the choice of Rhys Patchell or Gareth Anscombe. Leinster will likely go for Ben Te’o at inside center, who will be a tough matchup for Samoan star Rey Lee-Lo. Leinster fans will want to see the exciting youngster Garry Ringrose at 13, and he would be tested should Cardiff opt to go for Cory Allen. Leinster’s back three shone last week, with Cian Kelleher and Adam Byrne playing sensationally, but facing Cardiff’s lethal back three will be a big test.

Leinster’s young side have improved dramatically over the course of this season, and while Cardiff have made some big signings, they still have yet to gel as a team. We feel that with Leinster in such good form, and Cardiff limping home from a loss to Treviso, it is the Dubliners that will come away with the win.

Prediction: Cardiff 12- Leinster 29

Ulster vs Scarlets:

One point separates these two sides on the table, with Ulster tied for first and Scarlets tied for second, so expect to see plenty of intensity as both sides take the field. Scarlets have been the team to beat this season, but Ulster have been phenomenal under Les Kiss, and silverware would be the perfect treat for the new coach.

Ulster are slowly returning Kyle McCall to full fitness, and he will be a big boost to the side. His workrate around the field is excellent, and he is a great prospect for club and country. Veteran Phil John will be vital for Scarlets at scrum time, as his 13 years of experience give him a key leadership role in the club. Scarlets will want a big impact from the athletic presence of Aaron Shingler, but with Ulster having names like Nick Williams, Robbie Diack, and Sean Reidy in their backrow. Ruan Pienaar will be a great weapon for Ulster, as he really is an integral part of their game plan. Scarlets will be without injured fly half Steven Shingler, but veteran center Reagan King will give their backline a calm and assured presence. Ulster may opt to utilize 20 year old star Jacob Stockdale at outside center or on the wing, but with Sam Arnold returning to fitness he is likely to play a role for them as well. Hallam Amos will give the Dragons a dangerous finisher in the wide channels, and his size may be hard for the likes of Craig Gilroy or Rory Scholes to contain.

Both of these sides have been in top form this season, and despite their European struggles, remain at the top of the table in the Pro12. As good as Scarlets have been, I feel that Ulster have just a bit more strength in depth, and if they choose to play their game, it will be difficult for the Scarlets to overcome that edge.

Prediction: Ulster 17- Scarlets 12