Men’s Club Rugby Predictions – Week of April 4, 2015

True South Rugby Union

Knoxville Rugby Club at Memphis Rugby Club

Knoxville is coming off two back to back devastating losses to divisional rivals both resulting in 50 points allowed to the opponent and only 18 points made. Memphis’ last loss came in a big loss against Nashville. Neither team has been particularly good against teams that challenge their game styles. Knoxville has not been able to put any offensive output against teams with defenses. Memphis has been had much better offensive output. Forwards, Brent Wolfe and Daane Smith lead the Memphis Forwards in scoring. Watch out for center combination of Steven Cope and Joseph Mertz in the Backs. For Knoxville is lead by 8-man, Wayne Chermely. I believe Memphis will take this game with a stronger offensive gameplan and homefield advantage.

Chattanooga Rugby Club at Hopkinsville Rugby Club

Chattanooga is the best team in the league at this point. Hopkinsville is the bottom of the league. There isn’t much to say on it, Chattanooga will win this game easily.

Birmingham Rugby after facing Jackson on March 21; courtesy of Bobby Bela Smith
Birmingham Rugby after facing Jackson on March 21; courtesy of Bobby Bela Smith

Baton Rouge Rugby Club at Jackson Rugby Club

Baton Rouge will be traveling to Mississippi to help maintain their unscathed record. This will be the second go around. The last time Baton Rouge faced Jackson, it took the last 10 minutes of the game for Baton Rouge to put Jackson away. Jackson has seen an increase in their competitiveness. It has peaked with a massive win over Montgomery, 48-24, though they were brought back to reality against Birmingham losing 32-0. Jackson will be tested again this week, with homefield advantage. Look for big plays from Jackson’s Flanker, James Lawson and scrumhalf, Houston McDavitt. For Baton Rouge watch for  wing, Mitchell Pedler and 8-man, Brandt Jumonville. Baton Rouge will take this win in a close match.

Battleship Rugby Club at Birmingham Rugby Club

Battleship will be traveling to Birmingham for the second round of this in-state rivalry. Battleship has allowed 39 points each of their last two games. Birmingham has been able to play with a full starting team. Though Battleship has seen decent offensive output, they are still yet to shore up their defense. Birmingham is looking to be back to playing on all cylinders and will be looking to maintain their lead in the True South – South division, despite having one loss on the season. A big win over Battleship will help maintain their lead in the division. Watch out for Battleship leaders, Lock, Brandon Buchel and for Birmingham watch out for the return of Brendon Smith. Look for Birmingham to take this win.

 

Update: Brendon Smith was injured during the Cayman Islands match and is out for the rest of the season. 

Share this post