Scarlets vs Edinburgh

With Scarlets pushing hard for a play-off position, and Edinburgh with little left to aim for this season, this looks like a home win. I expect the visitors to have plenty of territory and possession; but it’s what you do with the ball that matters, and that is where Edinburgh will come off second best to the Scarlets. The home side will be pushing not just for the win, but for a valuable bonus point as well. Scarlets by 15.

Newport Gwent Dragons vs Ulster

Ulster are also in the race for the fourth play-off spot and hold a four point advantage over the Scarlets. Away victories in the Pro12 are not that easy to come by, but it will represent a major slip-up on Ulster’s part if they don’t win this one. The Dragons, like Edinburgh, have only pride left to play for, and although they will make it hard going for Ulster at times during the game, the visitors should return to Belfast with the points. Ulster by 12.

Leinster vs Cardiff Blues

Leinster have negotiated the Six Nations window with consummate ease; putting four comfortable wins together and moving to the top of the Pro12. The Blues, in the meantime, only have a real long-shot at a Champions Cup slot for next season, with the torturous play-off route being the most likely way of securing this. With so many returning internationals to an already strong Leinster squad, I can’t see past another impressive home win. Leinster by 23.

Zebre vs Munster

Despite a blip in Round 16 at home to the Scarlets, Munster remain serious title contenders. They will only get stronger as the likes of Stander, O’Mahony and friends return to the fold. Zebre continue to offer little challenge in the Pro12, even at home, so it’s really only a case of guessing home much Munster will win by. Munster by 28.

Glasgow Warriors vs Connacht

Perhaps one of the more difficult games to call this week. The results for the Warriors during the Six Nations have been disastrous, and effectively put an end to their play-off hopes. Connacht have won four in a row, and are now in a position whereby they are breathing down the neck of Glasgow in the league. Champions Cup rugby next season is still a possibility for the men from Galway, but you sense a win here may be necessary. With some significant ongoing injuries for the home side, and Connacht on a roll, I’m going against the bookies, and predicting a narrow win for the visitors. Connacht by 1.

Benetton Treviso vs Ospreys

There’s little doubt that the Ospreys are nailed on for a play-off spot this season, it’s just a matter of whether they can secure an all-important home semi-final. If they are to do that, then they must come away from Treviso with all five points. I suspect it may take them a bit of time to break down a stubborn Italian defence, but once they do, the floodgates could open. Ospreys by 32.

By Keith Mackenzie
Follow Keith on Twitter: @Keith_Mack7