MATCH-BY-MATCH GUIDE Saturday 21 Oct

M1 Western Province v Lions: Although Western Province were full value for their win over table-toppers Sharks last weekend in Durban, the Lions showed what the firepower their Springbok players bring to the mix. They were clinical in beating the Cheetahs last weekend to finish third on the log. WP will give the Lions a massive challenge, but the visitors have the skills to win.

M2 Sharks v Bulls: The Sharks may not have gone full tilt last weekend and they take on the Bulls, who have showed enough improvement in the Currie Cup but have not impressed enough to indicate they can beat a strong side. The Sharks deserved to top the log and over the last three months have played the best and smartest rugby. Expect them to host the Currie Cup final.

M3 Bordeaux v Newcastle: Both these teams won in Week 1 of the Challenge Cup, but Bordeaux won by 40 points albeit against a pretty moderate side. Newcastle will always be hard to beat when they are at home but the trip to France will not suit them. Expect Bordeaux to win again.

M4 Saracens v Ospreys: Saracens should have too much for Ospreys especially at home. Although Ospreys lift their game when they play bigger teams, they should be found wanting against last season’s European Cup winners.

M5: Montpellier v Exeter: Montpellier have had to contend with injury concerns this campaign so they have started a little slowly, while Exeter won their opening fixture. Montpellier will improve as the season wears on, but Exeter look like a formidable side this season so be with the Englishmen.

Suggested R240 perm for the Rugby 5 pool this Saturday (pool closes 14:30): M1 = 3, 4; M2 = 1, 3; M3 = 1,2; M4 = 2; M5 = 1, 3, 4.