Ulster vs Edinburgh

Ulster will be looking for revenge over Edinburgh who beat them 28-17 earlier in the season at Murrayfield. The home side really need a good run over the Six Nations if they are to launch a late challenge for a top four slot. Given that four of their next five games are at home, and they play Italian opposition three times in this period, I expect to see them moving up the table pretty quickly. This should start on Friday night against opposition that can’t seem to bring their excellent Challenge Cup form to the Pro12. Ulster by 8.

Munster vs Newport Gwent Dragons

It’s difficult to see Munster’s superb run coming to an end against the inconsistent Dragons. They deservedly sit top of the Pro12 and if anything they might have one eye on next week’s top of the table clash against the Ospreys. Superior forward power, a strong backline and an unforgiving defence makes a home win almost inevitable. Munster by 16.

Glasgow Warriors vs Scarlets

Fourth plays fifth in what should be a tight game. The Warriors are seriously impacted by international call ups and will really need their squad players to step up to the mark. There won’t be much to choose between the sides and if the weather is kind it could be high scoring. Home advantage and the normal vociferous support may just give Glasgow the edge. Glasgow Warriors by 2.

Zebre vs Ospreys

Despite the visitors missing a number of key players, the same problem faces the Italians. Having won their last five Pro12 games, the Ospreys should be able to consolidate their top four position with a comfortable bonus point victory. Ospreys by 21.

Cardiff Blues vs Connacht

Connacht are sitting in eighth place, six points behind the Blues; the significance of a win and chasing a Champions Cup slot for next season won’t have escaped their notice. Both sides have lost three of their last four games and not a lot is going right for either of them in the Pro12 just now. When they met in Galway back in November Connacht won 18-7, however I am taking the Blues to win at home and leave Connacht hanging in Pro12 ‘no-man’s land’. Cardiff Blues by 5.

Benetton Treviso vs Leinster

The fixtures have fallen kindly for Leinster over the Six Nations tournament, and as such the absence of so many players will have little impact. They will start as favourites to win their next five games, starting with what should be straight forward trip to Treviso. Leinster by 18.

By Keith Mackenzie
Follow Keith on Twitter: @Keith_Mack7