06/09

SortofLondon SortofIrish vs SortofLondon Wasps

The London Double-Header pits two exciting teams against each other. Questions to answer - can Irish's attack survive the loss of Brian Smith and the coaching move of Catty? Can Wasps' blitz work with the ELVs? Anyway, Irish have stood still, Wasps will be rusty. Wasps 4pts, Irish 0.

Sorries vs Gin'n'tonics

I like Quins this year. I know, it's wrong. It's tainted. But seriously, you can't help but be impressed with the way their organisation has reacted to relegation. Improved stadium, steady but consistent recruitment. In a short-term world, Quins have pleasingly mid-term ambitions. Anyway, neither are gonna win anything this year, but Quins will win this one. Quins 4 Saracens 1.

07/09

Brizzle vs Brilliance

To quote British Sea Power, No Lucifer. And if you don't get that obscure joke then Google it, or preferably download it from iTunes. Bris are not a bad side. They're just... not good. Unfortunately I just don't think the team-spirit/well-oiled/organised team can cut it anymore. Premiership rugby is a money game now. Bris should be up there. They have the catchment area. They have the history. But while they've made a name for themselves in the past couple of seasons from an organised on-field performance, that just doesn't seem to exist off-field. The Brilliance welcome a rusty team but a sharp fly-half and should have too much. Bristol 0 Bath 5.

Glaws vs Meeeeeeat

The Meat come to Glawster having won twice there last year. Gloucester baffle me. Incredible quality in the backs is just not matched in overall intelligence or sufficient power up front. I still think they'll finish top of the league, but for today, I reckon The Meat will be inspired and snatch an upset. Gloucester 1 Leicester Tigers 4

Relegated vs Tadpoles

An exciting team vs a team who don't seem to want to compete in the Premiership. I could go on, but what's the point. Sale will walk this. Leeds would have walked this. Newcastle 0 Sale 5.

Bootboys vs Boilers

Welcome back to the Premiership to Saints. You've a long way to go to match your rugby league namesakes. A very intriguing opening game and probably a microcosm of the whole premiership. I think Saints will play worse than this game and win, and Wuss will play better and lose. I just think their styles match up badly for Saints. Saints 1 Wuss 4.

Bookmark or share this story with:

• Digg
• Delicious
• Facebook
• Reddit
• Stumbleupon

SPORTNETWORK SPECIALS