Champions Cup semi-finalists Leinster and Munster lead the way and look set for home semi-finals, with the Scarlets third, two points ahead of the Ospreys in fourth, and Ulster fifth a point further back. The 2015 champions Glasgow Warriors still have a mathematical chance of reaching the top four, but will need to take all five points in Dublin this weekend to stay in touch.
The Scarlets head to Galway on Saturday to take on reigning champions Connacht in what is expected to be Pat Lam’s final home game in charge. If Ken Owens’ men can win it could be enough to see them into the semi-finals ahead of their last game at home against the Ospreys.
“It’s massive for us to be competing for a trophy at this stage of the season. When Wayne Pivac made me captain I told him that I had never won anything in my time at the Scarlets,” said Owens.
“This region has a big history of winning things and we have put ourselves in a good position this season after losing our first three games. It is in our own hands to reach the top four.
“I’m sure Connacht will want to give Pat Lam a big send-off an going to Galway is totally different these days to a decade or so ago. Things have changed dramatically there and they have a quality side backed by massive support.”
The Ospreys host Ulster on Saturday in a must-win game and will be looking to bring to an end a run of four successive defeats, and five in their last seven games. If they can get back to winning ways then they will be in the box seat to finish in the top four, especially as Ulster host Leinster in their final game.
“We didn’t mentally turn up against the Blues and that was the most disappointing thing. We need to monitor where the players are this week to make sure we nail it,” said Ospreys forwards coach Chris Gibbes.
“It’s going to be a cracker because there is a lot on the line for both teams. They will fancy their chances and I’m sure they will be coming here ready to have a crack at us up front.
“It’s a chance for us to meet them head on and we will have to make our mark up front, and make it early. They have a back line that is the envy of most teams in Europe and have quality right across the park.”
Cardiff Blues will also continue their build-up to the play-offs for the Champions Cup by hosting Zebre Rugby at the BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park on Friday night. The Blues have been in terrific try-scoring form of late with 22 tries posted in their last six games.
The final game on Friday night sees Edinburgh welcome the Dragons to Myreside in a game that could determine who finishes ninth or 10th in the table. The Dragons are two points behind their hosts in 10th and will be seeking their first away win of the season.
