Sale vs Bristol Predictions - Sale set for convincing home win

Sale have won three of their last four matches against Bristol. When they met earlier this season the Sharks were 27-13 winners in Bristol.

The Sale Sharks are enjoying a fine season in the Rugby Premiership and are currently third on the table, two points off top. They have won seven of their 10 matches to date.

Prior to Christmas, Sale defeated Saracens 22-20 at home to which took them top of the Premiership table. However, they lost 21-17 away to Northampton last week which took the Saints to the top of the pile.

Next week sees a return to Europe so the Sharks will want to go into the Premiership break with another win under their belt.

Sale must travel to Cape Town next week, but they do only play next Saturday, which gives them a bit of a break. Still, resting a few players may be on the agenda this Friday.

Bristol have struggled this season but have still managed four wins from their 10 games. They are on 21 points in eighth place on the table.

In Europe, the Bears beat Lyon at home before losing away to Bordeaux. They returned to Premiership action with a good 21-13 away win against Newcastle Falcons.

Last week Bristol, however, lost at home 24-14 to Exeter Chiefs. It was a game Bristol would have hoped to at the very least pick up a losing bonus point.

With Europe back next week, Bristol will want some confidence. However, this is a tough trip to the Sharks, and they may opt to rest players.