Here we are on the eve of Christmas, with some a few Premiership crackers to look forward to – here are my rugby predictions for Round 11.

Worcester v London Irish
This is a huge match in the relegation context, and it’s hard to see London Irish winning. They’ve lost their 5 away matches by an average of just over 25 points, and with Worcester’s recent run of form, they should win this one. Worcester by 8

Sale v Bath
Bath will take some confidence from their European efforts against Toulon, and I think they can win in Salford. I have in my mind that Sale never plays particularly well around Christmas, but I haven’t got time to do the research with my family willing me away from my laptop! Bath by 6

Newcastle v Harlequins
The Falcons win over the Saints helped precipitate Jim Mallinder’s exit, but was that a sign of a return to early season form for Newcastle? Quins have top six aspirations at least, and these are the sort of games they need to win. Harlequins by 2

Wasps v Gloucester
Gloucester hasn’t won away at Wasps since 2008, and Wasps have won 8 out of the 10 previous meetings between these sides. It’s hard to see a Gloucester win here. Wasps by 13

Northampton v Exeter
A tough first Premiership outing for the interim Saints head coach. We might see a bounce in performance, but the players are the same, and surely the Chiefs can win at Franklin’s Gardens. Exeter by 4

Leicester v Saracens
Sarries put in an improved showing in Clermont after the horror show at Allianz Park, but Welford Road is not the ideal place to find a turnaround in form. I think the Tigers will fancy this one, and if Wasps and Bath win too, Saracens will be down to 6th. Leicester by 4

Bets:
I have put my £10 this week all on Bath to beat Sale at 2.12. If they can beat Toulon, surely they should be favourites against Sale.

Happy Christmas!
Thank you for your support over the last year, and through our shift to become England-focused. I have a few site changes planned, and some new stuff in the pipeline, and I’m excited for 2018. I hope you have a great Christmas, and a happy new year.

Follow Hutch on Twitter: @Hutch_James