Adam Williams presents his prediction for the English Premiership rugby match.
While the head-to-head history favours Exeter Chiefs, the current momentum lies with Bristol Bears. Which will prevail—past records or present form?
Exeter Chiefs
Although the glory days of the Chiefs peaked in 2021, the team under Rob Baxter have never had such a poor start since joining the Premiership in 2010. Three consecutive defeats seem to reflect a tough schedule. They suffered a frustrating and controversial loss to Leicester Tigers(14:17) at the start, followed by away games against the champions, Northampton Saints (24:30), and perennial title contenders, Saracens (14:29). It might seem like the Chiefs finally have a beatable opponent, but that would be a mistaken assumption.
Bristol Bears
The Bears secured two victories out of their first three matches, defeating Newcastle Falcons 24:3 and last year’s runners-up Bath Rugby 36:26, both on the road. Their loss to Gloucester Rugby, 41:44, was self-inflicted—missing a late conversion and conceding a decisive penalty. Nevertheless, they sit second, trailing only Saracens.
Exeter Chiefs vs Bristol Bears Prediction
How do the clubs fare against each other? Statistics favour Exeter Chiefs: in their last five Premiership encounters, only they have triumphed, sometimes by large margins (50:14). Chiefs’ first win of the season is quite possible in the fourth round, but it will be extremely hard-fought if it comes at all, so we suggest backing the visitors with a handicap. Bristol Bears will fight for victory.
