Sharks vs Benetton Predictions - Sharks tipped to continue strong home run in a URC encounter
The upcoming United Rugby Championship clash sees the Sharks favored to win against Benetton, particularly at home where they have a strong record. The Sharks have covered big handicaps before and are tipped to do so again, especially with Springbok captain Siya Kolisi returning and talented 18-year-old Zekhethelo Siyaya starting at fly-half. In contrast, Benetton's away form has been inconsistent, and their defense has struggled against physical teams. Experts recommend backing the Sharks to cover the -14.5 handicap in this match.
- Sharks have won 4 of their last 5 home games and are tipped to cover -14.5.
- Star return: Siya Kolisi starts, 18-year-old Siyaya debuts at flyhalf.
- Benetton has struggled defensively on the road, winning only 2 of last 5 away matches.
Sharks tipped to continue strong home run in a URC encounter (Getty Images)
Sharks vs Benetton Predictions
Sharks are favourites based on an impressive home win record. My best bet is the Sharks to cover the -14.5 handicap at home.
- Sharks have won 4 of their last 5 home matches.
- Sharks have won 2 of the 4 encounters against Benetton.
- Sharks have scored more than 30 points in 3 of their last 5 home matches.
- Sharks come into this match on the back of a 21-15 home win against Cardiff Rugby.
- Benetton have won 2 of their last 5 away matches.
- Benetton head into this match on the back of a 31-10 loss at Glasgow Warriors.
Head to Head
Sharks have won two of the four encounters against Benetton.
Sharks Form
Sharks have been in impressive form at home, winning four of their last five home matches in all competitions. They come into this match on the back of a 21-15 win against Cardiff Rugby.
Their previous home results include a loss against the Lions (23-22), wins against Clermont Auvergne (50-12), Stormers (36-24), and Munster (45-0).
Sharks are currently 10th in the United Rugby Championship, with 36 points after 16 matches.
Sharks’ physical edge up front could prove decisive at Kings Park.
Sharks Injuries & Team News
Sharks welcome back Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, and have made a surprise selection by naming 18-year-old Zekhethelo Siyaya at fly-half.
Starting line-up:
1 Ox Nche, 2 Eduan Swart, 3 Vincent Koch, 4 Jason Jenkins, 5 Emile van Heerden, 6 Siya Kolisi, 7 Vincent Tshituka, 8 Emmanuel Tshituka, 9 Bradley Davids, 10 Zekhethelo Siyaya, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 12 Andre Esterhuizen (c), 13 Jurenzo Julius, 14 Edwill van der Merwe, 15 Jaco Williams.
Replacements:
16 Fez Mbatha, 17 Phatu Ganyane, 18 Hanro Jacobs, 19 Corne Rahl, 20 Nicholas Hatton, 21 Ross Braude, 22 Jean Smith, 23 Litelihle Bester.
Benetton Form
Benetton have been inconsistent on the road, losing two and drawing one of their last five matches in all competitions. They come into this match on the back of a 31-10 loss at Glasgow Warriors.
Their previous away results include wins at Zebre (37-23), and Lyon (38-19), a loss at Cardiff Rugby (17-8), and a draw at the Dragons (15-15).
Benetton are currently 13th in the United Rugby Championship, with 33 points after 16 matches.
Benetton has struggled defensively against powerful packs away from home.
Benetton Injuries & Team News
Benetton will be looking to improve on their defensive weaknesses and improve their position on the table.
Verdict
Sharks tipped to continue strong home run. My best bet is the Sharks to cover the -14.5 handicap.
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