URC, Round Seven - Teams and Predictions 

FRIDAY PREVIEW: Defending champions Glasgow Warriors will look to strengthen their current log position of second place and put pressure on leaders Leinster whose unbeaten streak will be on the line against Ulster.

The Warriors return to URC action following a semi-successful trip to South Africa where they collected seven out of a possible 10 log points.

Their late comeback against the Sharks saw them score four tries and finish within seven points to earn two bonus points before sealing an empathetic victory over 2022 champions the Stormers in Stellenbosch with a full-house of points.

They face a Scarlets side who are seven points behind them on the table and are fighting to keep their top eight spot in the competition.

Glasgow are boosted with seven Test internationals returning from national duty with former Scotland U20 prop Fin Richardson getting the nod at tighthead as one of three debutants alongside fellow starter Jare Oguntibeju at lock and his bench replacement Macenzzie Duncan.

Speaking following selection, head coach Franco Smith said: “We’re pleased to be back at home tomorrow night, as we look to hit the ground running in the second block of our season.

“The Scarlets have been in good form this season, and their mix of dynamic forwards and exciting backs can cause problems from anywhere on the field.

“We’re also pleased to include Fin [Richardson], Jare [Oguntibeju] and Macenzzie [Duncan] our matchday squad for the first time. All three have worked hard to earn their opportunity, and we look forward to seeing them in action tomorrow night.”

Scarlets have been boosted by the return of former All Black and current Tonga international Vaea Fifita from injury who hasn't played since the opening round against Benetton.

Kemsley Mathias, Ryan Elias, Alex Craig, Taine Plumtree and Eddie James who all featured during the Nations Series are named on the bench.

Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel said: “Glasgow are a team who play with high energy, high speed and it is a case of ‘expect the unexpected’ with them.

"It is going to be a big challenge for us, but one we are excited about, to go and see where we are at, going up against the champions on a fast track.

"We have spoken about using the opportunity and using the energy and having a go at them.

“I feel we have used the last month really well, the boys have applied themselves, worked hard and are ready for the start of another big block of matches with Europe to come followed by a couple of Welsh derbies.”

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