Adam Williams presents his prediction for the Premiership Rugby match.
The London Showdown returns with a blockbuster derby between Saracens and Harlequins, played at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, which can host up to 63,000 fans. It’s a fiery return to club action following the lengthy Six Nations break, and both sides are set to resume their Premiership campaigns in dramatic fashion.
Saracens
The break saw several key Saracens players feature prominently for England, including Jamie George, Maro Itoje, and Ben Earl. The latter two carried heavy workloads and may be given partial rest. Fortunately, Andy Christie returns from injury and is expected to feature, which is a big boost to the back row. Currently fifth in the table, Saracens are in the thick of the playoff race, just ahead of sixth-placed Harlequins. A tough schedule awaits, with Leicester Tigers up next, making this derby a critical result for them.
Harlequins
Harlequins are facing a brutal run of fixtures. After this derby, they’ll travel to league leaders Bath, then head to Dublin to face Leinster at Croke Park in the Champions Cup Round of 16. For this match, they’ll be without Marcus Smith, who’s due a mandatory rest after playing nearly every minute for England during the Six Nations. His absence will hurt the creative spark of Harlequins’ attack.
Saracens vs Harlequins Prediction
Harlequins without Marcus Smith will feel slightly limited in attack, but Saracens are also managing the return of international stars who might not be at full throttle. While Saracens will likely edge the contest, this won’t be a repeat of last year’s 52:7 thrashing. Expect a tight and fiercely contested match, where Harlequins can stay within the spread and perhaps leave with a losing bonus point.
