Exeter Chiefs Challenge Free-Scoring Northampton Saints in Premiership Rugby on Saturday
Exeter travel to Devon to face Northampton on Saturday, April 18. Kick-off is 3.05pm, live on TNT Sports 1 and 2.
Match context
Exeter Chiefs, after reaching the Challenge Cup semi-finals, face free-scoring Northampton Saints in Premiership Rugby on Saturday. The pair met earlier in the season when Northampton led 33-7 at half-time but the game finished 33-33.
Recent form
Northampton suffered a heavy reversal last week. They squandered a 35-14 lead and lost 43-31 at Bath.
Team strengths and selection
Northampton lead the Premiership scoring charts this season. They have 439 points and 65 tries.
Exeter boast the league’s best defence. They secured a European Challenge Cup semi-final place with a win over Benetton.
Line-up notes
Exeter have kept the same starting XV after the Benetton win. Northampton have made eight changes.
England half-backs Alex Mitchell and Fin Smith both start for Northampton. George Furbank and Ollie Sleightholme add pace out wide.
Tactical battle
This is a clear clash of styles. Northampton rely on an expansive running game while Exeter defend strongly.
If any side can unsettle Exeter’s defence it is Northampton. The Saints look dangerous in open play.
Bath v Harlequins preview
Bath host Harlequins at 5.30pm on TNT Sports 1. Bath sit second and will capitalise on any slip from Northampton.
What to watch
Bath staged a comeback against Northampton last week. They now face a European Champions Cup semi-final with Bordeaux in two weeks.
Harlequins beat Bristol in their last Premiership match. Their physical selection includes Chandler Cunningham-South, Guido Petti Pagadizábal, Jack Kenningham and Alex Dombrandt.
Betting and notes
Market suggestions in the build-up tipped Northampton at 11-10 with BoyleSports. Other lines gave Harlequins a +24 start at 10-11 with Coral and Ladbrokes.
With Bath preparing for a big European tie, asking them to cover a 25-point handicap may be unrealistic. Consider form and selection before staking.
For more analysis and tips visit Filmogaz.com. Coverage includes TV details and up-to-date team news.
