Round 8 of the Premiership looms

The rampant Leicester Tigers will march into their eighth fixture of the campaign confident of as many victories as they face a struggling Bath outfit at Welford Road. It has been a poor season so far for Bath who are yet to record a win and, while Leicester are somewhat depleted with a number of heavyweights doing international duty, it is still expected that the home side will dominate the occasion. 

Bristol face off against Worcester Warriors at Ashton Gate and will try to build positively on their victory over the Exiles last weekend – their second of the campaign. Worcester also tasted victory in the last round – a good win against Sale at Sixways – and will put their best foot forward with some renewed confidence. Given the situations of both teams, who occupy similar territory on the log, this could be an entertaining encounter. 

London Irish travel to StoneX Stadium to do their best against Saracens. The latter enjoyed a valuable victory over the defending champions Harlequins in the last round and will be feeling optimistic of the chances of registering their sixth victory. Irish have shown good fortitude this season and will not lie down – if they hit a rhythm, Saracens could have their hands full. 

After their shock defeat last weekend, Sale Sharks return home to the AJ Bell where they will meet the significant challenge of Northampton Saints. Saints are looking strong thus far, with four victories from six fixtures and a total of 18 log points, which is good enough for fourth place on the log. Sale are having a tougher time of it, with only 2 wins from their seven outings. 

Exeter Chiefs managed a narrow victory over Gloucester in the last round while Newcastle sat out for a bye. This weekend, the two will lock horns at Sandy Park. Newcastle currently have a 50% winning ratio and find themselves eighth on the log while Exeter are knocking on the door of the top four. Chiefs will be missing a couple of players doing duty for England – a situation Falcons would like to exploit, and things could well become exciting in this clash if the latter’s determination is present. 

Sunday’s only fixture sees Wasps pitted against the defending champs at the Coventry Building Society Arena. Missing stand-out figures such as Marcus Smith, Alex Dombrandt, Joe Marler and Louis Lynagh, Quins will find themselves somewhat vulnerable, their depth will be tested and it will be intriguing to note manner in which they adapt, especially after last weekend’s loss to Saracens. After six outings, Wasps posted three wins and, after being bullied by Saracens a fortnight ago, managed to see off Bath in the last round for some momentum going into this weekend. Rest assured that Lee Blackett’s men will have a full go at Quins who will have to fight hard to maintain their standards without their top representatives.