After an action-packed first round of the Champions Cup, we head straight into the second round of the pool stage and “The Don” looks at the betting for two of the games being played on Saturday, the 16th of December, namely the Stormers v La Rochelle and Lyon v the Bulls.
Stormers vs La Rochelle
In their opening Champions Cup game, the Stormers faced Leicester away from home and suffered a 35-26 defeat, earning them no points but they got plenty of respect having left many of their star players at home. They have struggled to find good form in their recent games, losing five of the last six, with their only victory against Zebre in the URC.
Similarly, La Rochelle also started their campaign with a loss against Leinster at home losing a tight, attritional match 9-16 in wet conditions. They have been hit and miss in the Top 14, winning three of their last six matches against Perpignan, Bordeaux Begles, and Bayonne.
Betting
Stormers 1.50
La Rochelle 2.80
Verdict
Despite the Stormers having the home ground advantage I think they are going to find the defending champions a handful and will back the visitors to bag the win.
The Dons Play
La Rochelle to win at 2.80
Click here for Stormers v La Rochelle betting
Lyon vs Bulls
Lyon opened this year’s campaign with a narrow loss against Bristol away from home in a game that ended 36-34. They were well behind early but fought back to lead only to see the victory snatched from them at the death. Their recent form has been disappointing, with only one win in their last six games.
The Bulls defeated Saracens 27-16 at home last week and while happy with the win they ended up making hard work of it. They have been in good form, winning five of their last six games, with their only defeat coming against Edinburgh away from home.
Betting
Lyon 1.29
Bulls 3.95
Verdict
There is a steel to this Bulls team that I have not seen in recent years and although the bookies are currently giving them an 8.5 points start I think they can upset and get the win
The Dons Play
Bulls to win at 3.95
Click here to bet on Lyon v Bulls
The Don’s Double works out at over 11.0
There will be more markets available closer to kick off including total points.
*All prices are subject to change
Tags:
Lyon vs Bulls, Stormers vs La Rochelle, European Champions Cup, Saturday 16th December