Bath vs Exeter Chiefs – Match Betting Preview

By Peter Ryan – @PeterRyanSports

Bath will look to remain at the top of the table as they enter the second stint of the Gallagher Premiership.

The league leaders will welcome the Exeter Chiefs to The Rec on Saturday afternoon. It is a tale of opposites, as Bath have been playing some tremendous rugby of late, whereas Exeter have been struggling to find their rhythm.

Both teams will be eager to secure a win as club rugby resumes following the international break.

It promises to be an exciting game this weekend, which could present some intriguing betting opportunities.

Bath

Bath look like the team to beat so far this season, as they have only one thing on their minds: the title.

Considering the squad they possess, it is no wonder the club sits at the top of the table.

After the disappointment of missing out on the title last season, Bath will want to make a statement to the entire league and assert themselves as one of the top teams in European rugby.

They are coming off a commanding win against the Sale Sharks, in a match that ended 40-13.

Bath are as well-rounded a team as one could hope for, highly efficient in both attack and defence.

As mentioned, their squad is sensational and brimming with blockbuster names in rugby. Of course, the first name that comes to mind is Finn Russell.

The Scotsman is one of the best fly-halves in the game today.

The Scottish international makes his presence felt every time he is on the pitch and can create something out of nothing in the blink of an eye.

He is pivotal in orchestrating Bath’s attack and will look to help his club secure a win against Exeter this weekend.

Ben Spencer will also be aiming to impress, particularly after being dropped from the national side despite performing well for England in the autumn.

Thomas du Toit, a superb prop, will aim to assert himself for Bath following a dominant autumn campaign with South Africa.

Bath will head into the clash brimming with confidence as they seek to solidify their position at the top of the table.

Exeter Chiefs

After a promising season last year, Exeter have endured a rough start to the competition, as they are yet to secure a victory.

Rob Baxter’s side has been struggling, which is disappointing given the expectation that they would kick on after last season.

They have suffered heavy defeats to Harlequins and were upset by the Newcastle Falcons, highlighting their recent poor form.

Defensively, their struggles are most evident; while they have players capable of scoring points, there seems to be a lack of consistency in their overall play.

Several talented players within their ranks will be disappointed by the team’s recent performances.

Henry Slade, coming off a strong autumn, will slot in at fly-half this weekend. His experience and reliable kicking game will be crucial to Exeter’s chances.

On the wing, superstar Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, a constant threat near the try line, can create significant problems for Bath’s defence.

Adding impact from the bench, Italian international Ross Vincent, known for his athleticism, relentless work rate, and stoic defence, will aim to make a difference in the latter stages of the contest.

The Bets

Considering how the game could unfold, there are some interesting betting opportunities. The best bet is for Bath to win by more than 12 points.

Based on recent form and the respective performances of the two sides, it could be a comfortable home victory for Bath.

There is also good value in betting on Bath to win by more than 15 points, as their attacking prowess could exploit Exeter’s defensive vulnerabilities.

For those who prefer a longer shot, Bath to win by more than 24 points is a plausible option, as the team have the quality to run away with the contest.

• Best Bet: Bath to win by more than 12 points – 10/11
• Value Bet: Bath to win by more than 15 points – 11/10
• Longshot Bet: Bath to win by more than 24 points – 4/1

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