We return for another weekend of Challenge Cup rugby, featuring two South African teams in action on Saturday 18 January.
The Lions will host the Dragons, followed by the Cheetahs taking on Lyon away from home.
Let’s analyse these matches from a betting perspective and suggest a few bets.
NOTE: At the time of posting these games have not been priced up due to team news being critical. Check back on Saturday morning for the betting and our suggested plays.
Lions vs Dragons
After a promising start to the season, the Lions have hit a rough patch, winning just one of their last five matches.
The Dragons haven’t fared much better, also securing only one victory in their last five games across all competitions.
In their most recent outings, the Lions suffered a 28-5 defeat against Montpellier away from home, while the Dragons lost 24-15 to Section Paloise at home.
Head-to-Head
The Lions have dominated recent encounters, winning four of the last five matches between the two teams. Their most recent meeting ended in a narrow 23-19 victory for the Lions in Wales.
Betting and Verdict
Bookies are holding back on the betting until we have team news. This preview will be updated on Saturday morning.
Update: I am expecting the Lions to put this Dragons team to the sword and will back them on the handicap.
Handicap: Lions -19.5
BET: Lions -19.5 at 9/10
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Lyon vs Cheetahs
Lyon have had a mixed run recently, winning two, drawing two, and losing one of their last five matches in all competitions. Similarly, the Cheetahs have won two, drawn one, and lost two of their last five games.
Last weekend, Lyon suffered a heavy 52-24 defeat to Connacht away from home, while the Cheetahs secured a hard-fought 22-18 victory over Zebre in Amsterdam, their home base for this competition.
Head-to-Head
This will be the first meeting between these two sides. Lyon currently sit second in their group, having won two of their three matches, while the Cheetahs are fifth with just one win from three games.
Betting and Verdict
Bookies are holding back on the betting until we have team news. This preview will be updated on Saturday morning.
Update: Lyon are firm favourites and the handicap of -16.5 looks about right. I am going to bet on the points range and that we get 49-55 points inclusive
Handicap: Lyon -16.5
BET: Points Range 49-55 inclusive at 4.50
Note: All prices were accurate at the time of writing but are subject to change.
