Adam Williams presents his prediction for the English Premiership rugby match.
Bath are preparing for the resumption of the English Premiership amidst growing rumours regarding star fly-half Finn Russell's potential move to one of five clubs across three countries. Meanwhile, Exeter Chiefs will finally see the full return of last season's Premiership Player of the Year. The Chiefs are not ready to surrender easily.
Bath Rugby
As long as the Scotsman is with the team and will be until the end of the season, they don’t need to worry about their free kicks and corners. Finn Russell's 60 points account for nearly 30% of the team's total, contributing significantly to Bath's success in the early stages. The vice champions have won five out of six matches. Bath didn't take it easy in the Premiership Cup either, winning all three matches with a total margin of (+146). Only Bedford Blues from the Championship escaped with a narrow defeat (21:7).
Exeter Chiefs
The Chiefs' early season struggles are linked to the absence of several key players. Of course, their entire game can't collapse without them, but it does have an impact. South African flanker Jacques Vermeulen was unavailable for four of the first six rounds. He only appeared in the fourth against Bristol Bears (35:40) and the sixth against Harlequins (19:36). He also played at least 45 minutes in all three Premiership Cup matches. Henry Slade made his debut this season against the Quins. The last season's Premiership Player of the Year has recovered from shoulder surgery. He successfully participated in all four of England's autumn test matches, playing at least an hour in each.
Bath Rugby vs Exeter Chiefs Prediction
Despite Henry Slade's return and gaining form, overall, Exeter Chiefs are weaker than Bath. Even with him, the Chiefs lost at home in the spring this year—14:26. They are expected to lose by at least a similar margin this time as well.
