Premiership Semi-Finals: Dan Biggar’s Guide to This Weekend’s Rugby Union Clashes
Anyone who claims there is not more pressure on play-off games at the club level is mistaken. These matches always feel different because, as a player, you know there is no second chance. The business end of the campaign is when you truly come alive. The build-up is heightened, and there is more media scrutiny, but I’ve always loved that.
Here’s my guide to this weekend’s two Premiership knockout games…
Friday, May 31 – 7:45pm, Cinch Stadium @ Franklin’s Gardens | LIVE on TNT Sports 1
Home advantage is crucial in play-off rugby, which is why I’m backing Northampton. Of the 39 previous knockout matches in England’s top division, the away side has won just six. If things go as expected, it will mark the end of an era for Saracens and Owen Farrell, who joins Racing 92 next season.
You can replace players, but you can’t replace personalities, and Farrell’s departure will have a significant impact. I feel for the No 10 who has to replace him, as there will be constant comparisons. Farrell is a leader who drives standards and has had real authority at the club for years. It reminds me of Sir Alex Ferguson leaving Manchester United – he is almost impossible to replace.
While this match will have no impact on Farrell’s legacy, the respect I have for him is off the charts. He doesn’t get much love from the public because he’s so aggressive and abrasive, but that’s his biggest strength. It’s relentless, and he’s the greatest player Saracens have produced.
If there’s any team capable of winning away in a play-off, it’s Farrell’s side. They know what it takes because they’ve done it so many times. But I just don’t think they’re the same team now as they were in their pomp. This Saracens side feels like it’s coming to the end of its cycle. In Fin Smith, Tommy Freeman and Ollie Sleightholme, Northampton have youngsters with nothing to fear when they face Farrell and Co.
Prediction: Northampton Saints win
Saturday, June 1 – 3:30pm, The Rec | LIVE on TNT Sports 2
Whereas the first match will see two teams with different approaches go head-to-head, the second semi-final is a meeting of two similar styles. Bath and Sale both have big packs who look to win matches by getting on the front foot, dominating physically and taking control of territory.
This will be incredibly tight, but I’m going for Bath – just. I’ve been really impressed by them this year. A lot of the talk has been around Finn Russell, and rightly so because he’s a brilliant player. But while they score some lovely backline tries, one of the big reasons why Russell can play as he does is because Bath usually dominate up front.
They also don’t take too many chances in the middle third of the field, where Ben Spencer kicks a lot. There will be a lot of kicking in this semi-final. Sale will also try and bully their way to an advantage. The gainline and the physical battle will be key. Expect a really attritional game with the team that dominates territory and possession winning.
I’m intrigued to see how the battle between Russell and George Ford goes because they are different playmakers. The fitness of Manu Tuilagi will also be key. If he’s able to play for Sale after a hamstring injury, it will be a huge boost to the Sharks. Sale are full of confidence, and that is priceless at this stage of the season. But I’m still just edging for Bath.
Prediction: Bath win
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