Rugby
Edinburgh vs Ulster Preview: Odds, Tips and Prediction
Venue: DAM Health Stadium Kickoff Time: 20:35 SportsBoom previews the encounter between Edinburgh and Ulster on Friday, 16 May. These two teams are still in with a shout for playoff contention and so there is a lot riding on a positive result here. For punters wanting to place a bet on this fixture, we suggest having a look at the top rugby betting sites for the best online rugby betting opportunities and offers.
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Ulster's Robert Baloucoune celebrates their win//Getty Images
Pre-Game Odds and Win Probability
There is excellent value in a game with so much to play for on top rugby betting sites, especially for fans wanting to maximise their potential returns.
Edinburgh: 1/5 (1.2) – 83%
Ulster 38/10 (4.8) – 17%
Head-To-Head Record
Last three meetings
02/12/2023: Ulster 24–27 Edinburgh
21/04/2023: Ulster 28-14 Edinburgh
30/04/2022: Edinburgh 10–16 Ulster
Edinburgh Current Form – WLDLW
Edinburgh will no doubt look at their inconsistent form and rue their chances of a more competitive performance this season. Winning just twice in their last five games will frustrate them, but they aren’t dead and buried just yet.
Sean Everitt would have coached his side really well and their structure will be difficult to break down. Their issue though is their ability to convert all of their possession and attacking ability into points.
Nevertheless, they will come into this game with confidence and belief – knowing only a positive performance will do.
Key Players to Watch
- Jamie Ritchie: The flanker will always be a threat to opponents at breakdown time. His work rate at ruck time and ability to disrupt the momentum of their opponents will be important here, so keep an eye on him.
- Ben Healy: He is a key player for Edinburgh, especially in the number 10 role. His boot will be a big player for sure, but he is also able to drive his team forward and put them in a position to take advantage of chances to get over the whitewash.
- Mark Bennett: He is an experienced player and will be difficult to deal with through the middle of this Edinburgh attack. He has shown week in and week out that he is able to split defenses and create attacking angles which are incredibly difficult to deal with.
Ulster Current Form – WLLLL
They are another side who have blown hot and cold this season, but they come into this game off the back of four straight defeats. In truth, it has been strange to see them play this season, where they blow teams away and then suffer shock defeats within a close proximity.
They are a team who are unapologetic about relying on their forwards and often win games through the indomitable presence of their tight five. There are question marks over their performances away from home, but there is a lot riding on this, and they can’t afford to play below par here.
Key Players to Watch
- John Cooney: He is a consistent performer in the URC and his kicking game sees him manage teams and get his own team into strong attacking positions. His experience allows him to be a leader in this team and that will be important from here on out.
- Nick Timoney: For many, he is Ulster’s defensive engine and responsible for their strong defensive approach. He seems to welcome the physical presence and will want to dominate tackles and space when on defence – keep an eye on him.
- Stuart McCloskey: He is a midfield presence like very few in the league and his ability with his hands often leads his team to enjoy positive attacking phases. He is another Ulster player who will no doubt welcome the physical challenge, but he will meet opponents equally up to the task.
Suggested Bets
For betting enthusiasts wanting to enjoy betting on rugby matches this weekend, these are our smart play suggestions.
Ulster: The visitors have the stronger physical presence, and we think they edge this, ever so slightly. 4/5 (1.8) with Betway.
Total Points (Under 47.5): These two teams have a lot riding on this fixture and given their defensive discipline, we think it could be a rather low-scoring encounter. 17/20 (1.85) with Hollywoodbets.
Value Bets
First Points Scored: For a bet on simple historical accuracy, Cooney’s boot is often the source of much of Ulster’s first scoring opportunities. 5/2 (3.5) with Supabets.
Mark Bennett (Anytime Try scorer) He has shown week in and week out that his attacking threat is something teams need to take seriously. Back the big centre to get on the scoresheet first. 3/1 (4.0) with 10Bet.
Prediction: Ulster to Win
This has all the makings of an absolute classic on Friday night. Edinburgh will no doubt want to impress their home crowd, but the sharpness of attack and superior ability at the breakdown belong to the visitors.
Expect a low-scoring affair and a physical battle throughout, but we back the visitors to come away with all of the points. If you're getting behind them too, don’t miss out on a free welcome bonus to get even more from the action.
Ryan Liberty is an experienced sports writer whose articles have featured in some of the biggest sports publications in South Africa. With a strong understanding of all major sports and an in-depth understanding of betting, Ryan consistently delivers insightful content. He's also known for his ability to break down complex topics into engaging, reader-friendly pieces.
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