Rugby
Lions vs Benetton Preview: Odds, Tips and Prediction
Date: Saturday 19 April Venue: Ellis Park Stadium Kickoff Time: 12:45 (UK Time) The hosts will know that the job is simple here, secure the win and give themselves a chance at the playoffs. The Lions find themselves in 14th place on the log coming into this game, seven places behind their visitors, but with just a six-point difference. For the hosts, they are currently in the driver’s seat to qualify for the playoff picture. However, they will know that, given the competitive nature of the tournament all season, they cannot afford to rest on their laurels.
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Edinburgh Rugby and Emirate Lions players scrum//Getty Images
SportsBoom takes a closer look at this encounter, bringing you all of the latest insights and rugby betting suggestions to assist in navigating your way through the contest.
Pre-Game Odds and Win Probability
Early online rugby betting seems to suggest that the Stormers are a banker bet here.
Lions: 7/20 (1.35) – 74%
Connacht: 49/20 (3.45) – 26%
Odds courtesy of Hollywoodbets, subject to change
Head-To-Head Record
Last three meetings
06/04/2024: Benetton 27–17 Lions
05/11/2023: Benetton 15-10 Lions
25/03/2023: Benetton 28–32 Lions
Lions Current Form – LLLLW
The Lions will need to find a degree of confidence once again after their most recent defeat in the United Rugby Championships. They were hammered 42-0 by Glasgow in Scotland last time out, a result which saw them drop to 14th on the table – but given how close these teams all are, they still have a chance at qualification.
The Lions will know that this is a must-win game for them, and whilst a win doesn’t necessarily guarantee a place in the top eight, it really is the only way they can give themselves any sort of chance.
Key Players to Watch
- Francke Horn: He continues to lead the Lions' back row, and his dynamic leadership has been a constant for the Lions throughout this season. He is a powerful player who has quickly become pivotal for the Lions in both their attacking and defensive systems. Keep an eye on him here!
- Morne van den Berg: As a scrumhalf, Morne has been ever-present. He is often seen as a zippy individual who enjoys getting the game ticking over for the men from Gauteng, and he will be important here.
- Henco van Wyk: He returned to the Lions squad after recovering from injury, and that will certainly be a boost for the boys in red. Known for his strong running, defensive capabilities and front-foot rugby approach, he could play a big role for them in these next few weeks. This is assuming he starts, which, given their situation and need for a result, should be the call!
Benetton Form – LWWLW
Benetton have proven to be a strong side in recent weeks. They have played some aggressive rugby and at times surprised the opposition with their ability to move the ball around the pitch.
They have secured big wins already this season, notably against Edinburgh this season, and will no doubt be wanting to build on that fine showing here. The early online rugby betting seems to suggest they have little chance, but merely dismiss them at your peril.
Key Players to Watch
- Tommaso Menoncello: He continues to be a standout performer for this Benetton side. Occupying positions at both wing and centre at times, he has been incredible for his side’s attacking success. It won’t come as much of a surprise, but he will no doubt be expected to play a big role here for the visitors.
- Jacob Umaga: The epitome of resilience and reliability for Benetton in the fly-half position. While he is often the player pulling all of the strings for Benetton and their movement, he is also an attacking threat himself. No stranger to crossing the whitewash at times and earning valuable points, Umaga could have a big say here.
- Ignacio Brex: The experience and stability at Benetton are often attributed to the presence of Ignacio Brex. He is a regular starter for his side, and his defensive aggression and prowess will be important in Johannesburg on Saturday afternoon. Given that he is able to create opportunities as well, he is one the Lions will need to take note of.
Suggested Bets
Our suggested bets for punters looking to make use of the online rugby betting odds for this URC encounter.
Lions (Win): The Lions are playing at home and have a brilliant record at Ellis Park this season. They will know they need to earn all of the points on offer and have named an incredibly strong lineup for the contest already. 7/20 (1.35) with Betway.
Over 45.5 Points: An attacking game of rugby is likely to ensue here. These two teams have shown that they enjoy attacking and can launch from anywhere on the pitch. Get on. 8/10 (1.8) with Hollywoodbets.
Value Bets
High-risk, high-reward punters - have a look at our value picks!
Lions to Win Both Halves: The Lions will likely be aggressive and pragmatic in their approach. They will want to get off to a fast start and take the game out of reach early on. 9/10 (1.9) with Supabets.
First Team to Score (Lions): Following on with the same thinking, the Lions have already shown they can start quickly and get off to a quick start. 1/1 (2.) with 10Bet.
Prediction: Lions to Win
It is a massive game for the Lions. They simply must win to give themselves any hope of qualification for the playoffs this season. They certainly have the team to achieve it, and given that they are playing on their home patch, we think aligning with the online rugby betting markets is a smart play here. Ellis Park will no doubt be bouncing at lunchtime on Saturday, and we think they get the job done.
A quirky writer with an engaging tone, Ryan Liberty has seen his work published on many of South Africa’s sport’s publications. Ryan has a great passion for everything in the sporting world, from darts to football, motorsport and everything in between. His conversational flair allows him to bring diverse sporting topics to both the avid sports fan as well as the relaxed reader.