Rugby Union: Lyon Host Racing 92 in European Challenge Cup Semi-Final
The European Challenge Cup semi-finals continue this weekend, with Lyon hosting Racing 92 at the Stade de Gerland on Sunday. The match is set to kick off at 12:30 pm and will be broadcast live on Premier Sports 1. According to the Racing Post, French club rugby is currently thriving, with the Top 14 guaranteed to have a team in the final of the European Challenge Cup on May 23.
Lyon and Racing 92 are both enduring indifferent domestic seasons, with Lyon currently ranked eighth and Racing 92 three points and two places below them. However, Racing 92 has made an intriguing selection call for the game, with Owen Farrell, who was signed to cure their fly-half issues, set to line up at inside centre for the first time. Dan Lancaster, son of former coach Stuart, will run the team from number ten. The Racing Post reports that head coach Patrice Collazo has admitted that Farrell’s selection in midfield is a precautionary measure, as Lancaster will cover most of the kicking.
The Racing Post notes that Farrell’s experience is a plus for the Parisians, but Collazo’s acknowledgement of his limitations could invite Lyon to run down his defensive channel at every opportunity. However, Farrell’s know-how could be crucial, especially after the duo drew 25-25 when they met in the league on December 29. The Racing Post quotes Collazo as saying that Farrell’s selection is a precautionary measure, which could be a clever move by the coach.
Lyon are the general 2-5 favourites in front of their home crowd, but the Racing Post suggests that backing Racing 92 with a six-point start seems a sensible play, given the tight contest that ensued when the two teams met in December. The Racing Post recommends a bet on Racing 92 +6 at 1pt Evs with bet365.
The European Challenge Cup has thrown up some exciting matches this season, and this semi-final encounter between Lyon and Racing 92 promises to be no exception. With both teams looking to make a statement, the Racing Post expects a thrilling match.
In related news, the Racing Post has also provided predictions and betting tips for other rugby union matches, including the European Champions Cup rugby union predictions, betting tips, and odds for Bordeaux vs Toulouse.
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