Munster vs Zebre Prediction: Zebre can run Munster closer than expected

It does not get much tougher than a trip to Thomond Park but that’s the challenge that awaits Zebre as they face Munster in the United Rugby Championship in Limerick on Friday night (KO, 19:35).

Many will be expecting a one-sided affair, as Italian side Zebre head into the game with just one win and a draw to their name in their first 10 games of the campaign.

However, Zebre have kept themselves in games in recent weeks and, with Munster missing a number of players on international duty with Ireland, the Parma outfit might be able to run the hosts closer than many predict.

Team News

Munster have already confirmed a number of injured players will not recover in time for this game.

Academy pair Shay McCarthy and Daniel Okeke picked up ankle and elbow injuries respectively against Harlequins and will undergo scans to see the extent of their problems.

Veteran winger Simon Zebo remains sidelined with a knee injury, while Patrick Campbell (shoulder), John Hodnett (finger), Paddy Patterson (knee), Jack O’Donoghue (knee) and Dave Kilcoyne (shoulder) are all out.

In more positive news, Joey Carbery, RG Snyman and Mike Haley have recovered from their recent injuries and are set to feature.

Match Odds

Even with players away with Ireland, Munster are 1/100 to win this URC encounter on Friday night, while Zebre are 14/1 to cause a huge shock in Limerick.

A tie on the night is currently available at 28/1.

Zebre +26 @ 11/10

While the table does not make great reading for Zebre, head coach Fabio Roselli will have taken positives from his side in recent weeks during the Six Nations.

They have lost just one match by more than seven points in their last six outings, which should give them confidence heading into this one.

Having won all of their 19 meetings, Munster look sure to come away with the victory.

However, there looks to be value in backing the 11/10 on offer for Zebre to fall on the right side of the +26 handicap. Given their ability to stay in games of late, Roselli’s side have shown they can score tries and keep things respectable.

The weather on Friday night can also play a role in keeping this game a tighter affair than some might envisage. With rain and 15mph winds forecasted in Limerick, it will have an impact on the game and might well be a leveller.

Zebre have shown fight in recent weeks and can come out on top with that generous 26-point advantage.

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