Ulster and Leinster for the wins!

 

 Robbie Henshaw (picture http://bit.ly/2cVwz1y)

In Wales when the derbys are played back to back it's called Judgement Day - but I guess we have two Judgement day coming up in Ireland!

First up is unbeaten Ulster taking the trip to the West, to face Connacht who they have always beaten while Pat Lam has been in charge. So recent history is with the Ulstermen, who also have Tommy Bowe on board for the first time in forever. While Ulster are unbeaten, Connacht have a more modest '1' in the win column. Home advantage counts for a lot...but I reckon Connacht will still be waiting for a while for their next win over Ulster.

Then huge bragging rights up for grabs as Leinster entertain Munster at the Aviva stadium. I'm going with my son, and I love the venue, always easy to get in and out of and a great view of the pitch. Haven't been there to see Leinster lose either! It's likely to be a lot closer than recent matches, as both teams are now in pretty decent nick. Leinster are likely to send out Robbie Henshaw for the first time, and Leinster and Munster will be packing their internationals. It's going to physical, it's going to be intense, and I can't wait! Home advantage is massive, and I think Leinster are still slightly ahead at the moment, so home team to win!

Then it's the Springboks, as desperate as ever to beat the All Blacks, but not really possessing the skill and accuracy to get the job done. New Zealand are sans classy ladies man Aaron Smith, but should still extend their unbeaten run.

Finally, in London, the Wallabies will play Argentina. I thought the Pumas were flat from the 30th minute last week, while Australia toiled away, but couldn't deliver on the accuracy. With no home advantage, it's back to track record , so the Wallabies then.

7 Oct 2016
Guinness Pro12    
Connacht v Ulster
1Edinburgh v Benetton Treviso
Ospreys v Cardiff Blues
8 Oct 2016
Leinster v Munster
Zebre v Glasgow Warriors
Scarlets v Newport Gwent Dragons

8 Oct 2016
Rugby Championship    
South Africa v New Zealand
Argentina v Australia