Gloucester vs Leicester Tigers Prediction: Tigers to ruin Villa Park spectacle

Gloucester will look to follow in the footsteps of their Gallagher Prem rivals and build their profile when they host Leicester Tigers at Villa Park on Saturday (13:00 KO, TNT Sports 1).

The likes of Harlequins, Saracens and Bristol have all had success trying to play games away from their home grounds in bigger stadiums in order to improve revenue. Gloucester chiefs are hoping the decision to play at Villa Park will be justified in years to come, but on the pitch, they look set to struggle this weekend.

Rugby Union odds

Gloucester vs Leicester Tigers Odds

With Gloucester playing at a neutral venue this week, they are 12/5 to succeed in what is categorised as a home fixture. The draw is available at 18/1, while Leicester are 4/11 to win on the road.

The Tigers are 10/11 to cover the -7 handicap, while the points line has been set at 56.5 and odds of 10/11 are available for 57 points or more.

Team News

Gloucester director of rugby Chris Boyd has made two changes to his team for the clash at Villa Park. Deian Gwynne slots into the back row, while Caolan Englefield starts ahead of Tomos Williams at scrum half.

Williams' absence means Rhys Price takes his place on the bench, while Seb Blake is also amongst the replacements after returning from injury.

Leicester scrum-half Jack van Poortvliet is promoted to the starting line-up after impressing off the bench last week, with Tom Whiteley dropping to the bench. Adam Radwan and Harry Wells are also fit enough to return to the squad.

Leicester Tigers - 6 @ 8/13

Leicester have lost three of their last five games against Gloucester, but all signs point to a routine away win.

While the hosts will look to raise their game in front of a bumper crowd, they are without Williams and his absence will be massive in all areas.

Leicester have won seven of their last eight Premiership matches and they continue to grind out wins, even when their backs are against the wall.

The Tigers have plenty of attacking threat and have scored 334 points in 11 games and their greater strength in depth should help them over the line.

Leicester to win both halves @ 13/10

Gloucester fell to a 45-14 defeat to Leicester in December and they will struggle to control matters with Williams in the stands. While the hosts have won the most scrums this season, it is in the ruck and open play where Williams' influence will be missed the most.

Leicester lead the league in kicks in play and kick metres, while Billy Searle leads the league in goal-kicking accuracy (87.5%).

The Tigers should be able to dictate the game, establish their control kick on from there in the Midlands.

Rugby Union betting tips with Betfred Insights.