Rugby
Munster vs Ulster Preview: Odds, Tips and Prediction
Date: Friday 9 May Venue: Thomond Park Kickoff Time: 19:35 (UK Time) These two teams are both still vying for a relatively strong finish to their domestic season, which also adds extra impotence for rugby betting. The hosts are currently 6th on the URC table while Ulster trails closely in 10th. The gap between the proverbial haves (top eight) and have nots (outside of the top eight) is still just a handful of points and so a win could be significant for either side here.
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Ulster v Munster - United Rugby Championship//Getty Images
Pre-Game Odds and Win Probability
The South African visitors come into this game as the early favourites according to the online betting.
Munster: 4/5 (1.8) – 55.6%
Ulster: 11/10 (2.1) – 47.6%
Head-To-Head Record
Last three meetings
20/12/2024: Ulster 19–22 Munster
01/06/2024: Munster 29-24 Ulster
10/11/2023: Ulster 21–14 Munster
Munster Current Form – LWWLL
Munster will no doubt come into this fixture with a heightened sense of confidence and belief in their own ability. Granted, they have suffered recent setbacks against the Stormers and Sharks – but given their log position and the opportunity for playoff rugby, you can expect a big performance here.
Key Players to Watch
- Jack Crowley: As a fly half, Crowley has been instrumental in Munster’s attacking prowess. His ability to manage the game with a unique blend of experience and composure has seen Munster over the line many times already this season.
- Calvin Nash: Nash is a dynamic Irish winger who has already showcased his pace and finishing ability in the URC. He is a constant threat out wide and when given space and time, he can inflict hurt on any opposing defensive system.
- Peter O’Mahony: The flanker brings exceptional experience to this Munster team. His leadership and experience allow his team to seamlessly navigate various game situations and offer a degree of calm within the forward ranks. He is one to keep your eye on.
Ulster Form – WLLWL
Ulster have been their own worst enemy in recent weeks. They have showed that they can be an incredibly dangerous team when they play with confidence and front foot ball, but one wonders whether their continental defeats have taken the proverbial wind from their sails.
They are currently just on the cusp of playoff contention in the URC and after their confidence-boosting victory of the Dragons, they will no doubt be eager to secure further wins and break into the playoff realm before the end of the league phase of the competition.
Key Players to Watch
- John Cooney: Ulster will be hoping that Cooney is able to play at his level best once again come Saturday afternoon. The scrumhalf often enjoys getting his team onto the front foot and ensuring he is able to keep their attacking phases ticking over.
- James Hume: Often associated and known as being the bully through the midfield, Hume is also a creative player capable of finding space and exploiting it unapologetically. He is often a nightmare to defend against and Ulster will be hoping for more of the same this weekend.
- Rob Herring: A mobile and modern hooker, Herring brings immense leadership and experience to the front row for Ulster. He is often the epitome of consistency from set pieces and ensures his team have a solid platform to launch attacking threats from.
Suggested Bets
Munster (Win): The hosts come into this fixture with a strong home record and a deep-seated confidence in their own ability. They will know what is at stake here and we think they may have too much for their visitors. 4/5 (1.8) with Betway.
Winning Margin (Munster 1-5 Points): As much as we think the hosts will come away with all the points on offer here, we expect a closely fought affair to ensue. Back Munster to edge it. 9/2 (5.50) with 10Bet.
Value Bets
For those looking for a little more value...
Halftime (Ulster) / Fulltime (Munster): Ulster have often started games incredibly well. They get out of the gates really quickly and put incredible pressure on their opponents from the first whistle. However, Munster just might have too much overall. 7/1 (8.0) with Supabets.
Total Points (Over 45.5): The attacking abilities inherent with both of these two teams is simply exhilarating. We think a high-scoring affair awaits and so why not take advantage of the generous odds on display. 10/11 (1.91) with Hollywoodbets.
Prediction: Munster to Win
Munster should have too much for their visitors. The home side comes into this encounter with a superior recent form and home advantage and are in need of the points ahead of their quest for the knockout stages.
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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