Adam Williams presents his prediction for the English Premiership rugby match.
The reigning champions aren't having the best of times. They went on the road twice and came back empty-handed both times. Will playing at their home, Franklin's Gardens, secure a win for Northampton Saints this time?
Northampton Saints
The concerning aspect of these defeats is how decisive they were. If not for Tommy Freeman's try in the final minute, the Saints would have lost 3:24 to Leicester Tigers. Two 10-minute sin-bins cost them dearly, with the Tigers capitalising on the second to score their third try. The Saints are currently very vulnerable away from home, but they manage to win at home, albeit narrowly. They edged past Harlequins with a +4 margin and Exeter Chiefs with a +6.
Sale Sharks
Can the Sharks win on the road? This season suggests not yet, with only one away game played so far. Complicating matters further was their opponent—Saracens, who are gunning for the playoffs as usual despite losing Owen Farrell. A 45:26 loss is substantial, although the Sharks only allowed the hosts to pull away in the final 20 minutes, keeping it close at 25:21 before that.
Northampton Saints vs Sale Sharks Prediction
Home advantage plays a crucial role in their head-to-heads—four of the last five meetings have been won by the home side. Sale Sharks did manage a narrow 22:21 victory at Franklin's Gardens in 2022. Close games are typical, with the losing side often earning a losing bonus point. Expect another tough match where the hosts will win with a modest margin.
