Munster vs Connacht

Munster have already secured a home semi-final, and there may be a temptation to rest a few players for this match. The defending champions come to Thomond Park with only an outside chance of finishing any higher than eighth. The home side are in such good form, that they should win their nineteenth Pro12 game of the season; and if Leinster happen to slip up, then Munster will top the table at the end of the regular season. Munster by 12.

Ulster vs Leinster

Mathematically, Ulster can still pip Ospreys for the last play-off slot. However, they will need to win this one with a bonus point and hope the Ospreys pick up nothing on their visit to the Scarlets (they would also need a big point swing in their favour). So it’s a mighty long shot! Like Munster, with a home semi-final in the bag, the visitors can continue to rotate their squad. Leinster by 3.

Glasgow Warriors vs Edinburgh

The second leg of the 1872 Cup holds no significance in terms of the Pro12, however many of the players could be viewing this as a mini-trial ahead of Scotland squad selection for their summer tour; and in that respect there are some interesting head to heads. This week, one cynic amusingly tweeted that it’s Glasgow versus Hamish Watson! Although Edinburgh always raise their game for this one, home advantage will help the Warriors, as will being an infinitely better organised and coached team. Glasgow by 13.

Newport Gwent Dragons vs Cardiff Blues

The visitors look secure in the Champions Cup play-off spot, but will want to cement this with a win of their rivals. The Blues form has been good of late, and although the Dragons were much improved until their late capitulation against Edinburgh last week, I suspect they will struggle to win the battle up front and therefore enough possession to earn point-scoring opportunities. Cardiff Blues by 10.

Scarlets vs Ospreys

This game is really all about final finishing positions in the top four….plus momentum. The home side have won four on the bounce, however the Ospreys have struggled up until last week when they dispatched Ulster. I think it will be tight, and the Ospreys will pick up the needed losing bonus to guarantee fourth place. But at home, with the wind in their sails; I’ll go for a narrow Scarlets win. Scarlets by 4.

Zebre vs Benetton Treviso

There is no lack of incentive for both sides in the Italian derby. It’s a winner takes all in terms of a Champions Cup place for next season, and they may also end up finishing above the Dragons if they fail to at least pick up a losing bonus against Cardiff. Although Zebre have probably competed slightly better this season against other Pro12 opponents, their defence has been the more porous. Treviso won the last encounter between the two 23-12 back in December, and I’m going to back them to win this one as well. Benetton Treviso by 5.

By Keith Mackenzie
Follow Keith on Twitter: @Keith_Mack7