Who writes the scripts for the URC? This league continues to create sensational story lines. The regular season finale next weekend has five teams chasing three playoff berths.
Who has clinched their place in the playoffs?
The top four teams in the standings are locked in. It will be interesting to see if these sides decide to rest marquee players for the upcoming playoff series. Leinster Rugby will have home field advantage throughout the playoffs if they advance.
Who has a chance of securing playoff rugby?
Last weekend saw the playoff elimination of Ospreys and Ulster from the playoffs. We have five teams chasing three playoff spots. Scarlets and Cardiff Rugby have had excellent seasons but face daunting challenges in South Africa. Scarlets travel to the Sharks while Cardiff Rugby play Stormers in the Cape.
Scarlets would be incredibly unlucky not to secure a playoff berth. They will need a point on the road to secure playoff rugby. Benetton and Munster Rugby play with each other in Cork. A playoff spot is on the line. Both sides impressed in victories at home in round seventeen. Benetton Rugby were excellent against the Warriors as Munster Rugby secured victory over Ulster Rugby at Thomond Park.
Edinburgh Rugby are the team who look primed to sneak into the playoff berth late. They host an Ulster Rugby side who have nothing to play for. A dangerous proposition but Edinburgh Rugby have the attack and pack to secure five points in this fixture.
Who prevails?
Scarlets, Munster Rugby and Edinburgh Rugby seem to have the advantage. They will likely secure their playoff spots next weekend. This comes at the expense of Cardiff Rugby and Benetton Rugby. I think the Cork fixture will take a life of its own though.
Playoff Predictions
Leinster vs. Edinburgh
Bulls vs. Munster Rugby
Glasgow vs. Scarlets
Sharks vs. Stormers