With the opening weekend of the 2024/25 Premiership Rugby season in the books, the league now rolls on into round two. Kicking off this evening with a West Country derby under the Friday night lights, there is plenty of anticipation for five more high octane fixtures in the English top flight.
We have tasked the Ruck writing staff to come up with their predictions for each match, ahead of what promises to be another thrilling weekend of Premiership rugby action. Bristol and Gloucester commence the schedule with their 19:45 kick off tonight, with Pat Lam’s home undefeated streak against the Cherry and Whites on the line at Ashton Gate.
PREMIERSHIP RUGBY PREDICTIONS: ROUND 2
Bristol Bears vs Gloucester Rugby
Ben Thorne’s prediction: (Bristol Bears Reporter)
“After last weeks victory against Newcastle, I think Bristol should come into the game brimming with confidence and ready to go again. However, it’s derby day and Gloucester have a number of world class players, such as Tomos Williams and Gareth Anscombe so I think it’ll be a really exciting game, with a lot of open play rugby. My prediction is that Bristol edge Gloucester, scoring late to win by eight points.”
Ben Baker’s prediction: (Gloucester Rugby Reporter)
“Gloucester will be hoping for an improved performance against fellow West-Country side Bristol Bears. After a disappointing performance against Saracens on the opening weekend, The Cherry and Whites will be looking to cause an upset against a Bears side who narrowly missed out on the play offs last season. I think the Bears will scrape a victory by about 5-10 points, especially with the backing of the home crowd.”
Harlequins vs Newcastle Falcons
George Davis’ prediction: (Harlequins Reporter)
“Quins welcome Newcastle to the Stoop on Saturday and I can only see it going one way. (Harlequins win). Newcastle look stronger under Steve Diamond but this will be a huge mountain to climb Quins showed huge amounts of resilience in defence last week and that can hurt a Newcastle side that struggle ball in hand. With Captain Alex Dombrandt out injured and Vice Captain Cadan Murley still out who will take the armband against Newcastle?”
Harvey Allen’s prediction: (Newcastle Falcons Reporter)
“After a tight losing finish against Sale, Harlequins will be looking to bounce back against Newcastle. The Falcons showed positive defence in their first game, but lacked any major attack and any use of their set piece. Meanwhile, Harlequins are back at the stoop for the first time this season, looking to right their wrongs from a nervy match in Sale. I don’t think Newcastle have much going for them playing away, with Harlequins looking much more like a finished article to their opponents. I think it’ll be a 40+ point whitewash of the Falcons down at the stoop.”