Ulster vs Benetton Predictions - Benetton can get close against Ulster in URC

All these factors make this a tough game to call. The bookies have given Ulster a 13-point handicap which I feel is generous to the visitors.

Last season Benetton held on for a 31-29 win over Ulster at home.

Ulster are perennial top four challenges in the URC, but they have fallen off the pace this season. With just four games to go, they are 10th on the table, but only three points off fifth so the playoffs is still very much alive.

During late March, Ulster lost both games to the Sharks and Stormers on their tour to South Africa before beating Montpellier comfortably in Europe. They then lost the quarter-final of the Champions Cup to Clermont by 39 points.

While not convincing, Ulster did manage to win in the URC last weekend, beating Cardiff 19-17 on home soil. With their final two games against Irish rivals, Munster and Leinster, Ulster will see this and their next game as must-wins.

Ulster simply cannot afford to lose this home game. Their season hangs by a thread and victory will go a long way to ensuring they reach the knockout stage.

Benetton made a sublime start to the season but have fallen off the pace in recent months. They are still looking good to make the quarterfinals as they are fifth on the table, but they will need a few results in the final weeks.

After losing three successive games during February and March, Benetton bounced back well, winning their last four in all competitions. The Italian side started tat run with an 18-14 home win in the URC over Connacht before beating the Lions 27-17 at home.

Then, in the European Challenge Cup quarterfinal, Benetton again beat Connacht and then thrashed the Dragons 36-19 last weekend in the URC.

Benetton have a tough end to their campaign so if they want to make the quarterfinals, this is a result they need. I expect a full-strength side despite playing the Challenge Cup semifinal next weekend.