Rugby
Munster vs Bulls Preview: Odds, Tips and Prediction
Date: Saturday 19 April Venue: Thomond Park Kickoff Time: 17:15 (UK Time) SportsBoom previews the United Rugby Championship clash between Munster and the Bulls on Saturday, 19 April. Whilst the focus might be slowly shifting to the playoffs, there is still four rounds of URC rugby to navigate. For those fans wanting to place their bets, our preview and prediction might give you all the guidance you need, alongside rugby betting sites for the latest URC betting offers and options.
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Simon Zebo is tackled by Canan Moodie and David Kriel//Getty Images
Pre-Game Odds and Win Probability
The online betting suggests that the home side will go into this contest as the firm favourites.
Munster: 4/10 (1.4) – 72%
Bulls: 21/10 (3.1) – 28%
Head-To-Head Record
Last three meetings
20/04/2024: Bulls 22–27 Munster
15/10/2022: Munster 31-17 Bulls
12/03/2022: Bulls 29–24 Munster
Munster Current Form – LWWLL
Ian Costello’s side would have been disappointed with their performance in the Champions Cup, but he will know they cannot afford to wallow with a lot of rugby still to be played.
They have put themselves in a really good position on the United Rugby Championship log and will want to ensure they enter the business end of the season with a degree of confidence. However, they face a Bulls outfit who will not roll over and allow Munster to have it all their own way.
Key Players to Watch
- Jack Crowley: Crowley has enjoyed a really good season with Munster. He has recently signed an extension on his contract and given that comfort, he has played with sublime confidence. Often at the helm of Munster’s attack, Crowley will be one to watch here.
- Jean Kleyn: Jean Kleyn’s return from injury has largely bolstered Munster’s pack. A player who is often noted for his physicality and prowess at set-piece time, Kleyn is a player with incredible experience and leadership.
- Alex Nankivell: A strong player with an aggressive approach to his game. He often makes a significant impact for Munster in midfield and his presence in this side only adds depth and creativity. Given the fact that the Bulls have an imposing defensive system, Nankivell might very well be unleashed at centre given license to run the ball up in midfield.
Bulls Current Form – LWWWL
The Bulls will no doubt head into this encounter wanting to make a statement. They are a side who are largely seen as being dangerous at home but fail to deliver on the road. They are currently third on the URC standings and remain in pole position to qualify for the playoffs.
Jake White will know the value of registering morale-boosting wins in Europe, especially when this close to the end of the regular season.
Key Players to Watch
- Cameron Hanekom: Hanekom is a player who continues to impress for the Bulls. His ability to carry the ball, break through tackles and then make tackles of his own have quickly seen him endear himself to Bulls fans.
If they are to have a successful end to their season, Hanekom will be a big part of it. - Johan Goosen: Johan Goosen continues to be a servant to Bulls rugby. A fly-half who brings a tactical element to both his kicking ability and being able to control the game’s tempo make him a pivotal figure in the Bulls’ backline.
- Elrigh Louw: Elrigh Louw is a player with immeasurable athleticism and versatility. An effective option underneath the high ball and a player with a strong and robust approach to his defensive game. His physical presence will be important for the Bulls here, and if the game begins to fracture and open up, he will be pivotal.
Suggested Bets
Our suggested bets for those who wants to bet on rugby are listed below.
Munster (Win): They are quickly becoming a team who know how to win. They are playing at home and have enjoyed good results over the Bulls in recent meetings – back them to claim a big win here. 4/10 (1.4) with Betway.
Halftime/Fulltime (Munster/Munster): Given the fact that Munster often look to start strong and then suffocate their opponents, we are backing them to be ahead at the break before going on to claim victory. 7/10 (1.7) with Hollywoodbets.
Value Bets
For those punters looking for a bit more risk, have a look at our value picks!
Munster (-11.5): It is a bit of an audacious pick, but the value is incredible. Back the hosts to clear the 11.5 handicap for a big return. 39/20 (2.95) with Supabets.
Over 53.5 Points: Granted, we are backing the hosts to claim a big win. However, the visitors will not lack in the offensive environment. Back the high-scoring game at 1/1 (2.0) with 10Bet.
Prediction: Munster to Win
These two teams have enjoyed a good domestic run in the United Rugby Championship. The visitors will be a difficult side to challenge defensively but given the holistic approach the hosts have already displayed this season, we are backing them to claim victory on home soil.
For those looking to add an extra layer of excitement to the match, there are several betting sites with welcome bonus offers worth exploring ahead of kickoff
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.