Well, we've got quite a trivial confrontation here with Bath Rugby squaring off against the beleaguered Newcastle Falcons. If history's any indicator, I'd say Bath has this in the bag. They've been completely dominating in recent contests between the two, making the Falcons look like they're playing with mittens on their hands and Wellington boots on their feet.
As we stand currently in the season, Bath Rugby's been extraordinarily consistent, sitting pretty up top with a 6-1 record. Just like a well-buttered crumpet, they've slid their way to the top. Newcastle Falcons, on the other hand, seem to be sitting... well, wherever you sit when you've only managed to curate a 2-5 record. Nobody gets to the top of the hill by sliding down, mates.
Normally, I'd say past performances shouldn't dictate future outcomes, but looking at the recent results... it's like the Falcons are in quicksand while Bath Rugby is on an escalator. Bath's having a go at it, coming off a string of wins. A point to remember, though, they huffed and puffed to just get past Exeter Chiefs 19-15. In contrast, their rivals, the Falcons, barely managed a win over Saracens and got thrashed by Gloucester Rugby.
Let's not forget that Bath sits comfortably at number 1 spot and Newcastle--a surprisingly cozy 9th. Nothing like a bit of a gap in the standings to spice things up, right? Or to squash a team's hopes like a fly on a scone.
So, if we're talking blue ribbons and tea roses, one might say Bath Rugby has it all. But then again, sports isn't baked goods at a county fair. Still, it's quite clear where my prediction lies.
Albert’s Prediction: Bath Rugby by 8