Bristol v Exeter: match predictions, where to watch and free tips

Free rugby tips, best bets and analysis for Bristol v Exeter in the Gallagher Premiership on Friday.

Where to watch

BT Sport 1, 7.45pm Friday

Best bet

Bristol +5
2pts 10-11 Hills

Match preview

It's first against second in the Premiership at Ashton Gate, but while Bristol are the leaders and have home advantage, visiting Exeter are the favourites.

That may not be because they're in better form - coach Rob Baxter says the Chiefs are improving but some weeks off their best - and it may have more to do with their need for points.

Bristol are 12 points clear with six rounds to go while second-placed Exeter are only four ahead of Sale and won't want to concede any ground as they push for a home playoff semi-final.

The Bears also field a much-changed side from last week's 34-17 win over Newcastle and are missing a host of key players such as fly-half Callum Sheedy, Ben Earl, Nathan Hughes and Semi Radradra.

However, the Bristol pack is boosted by the return of Kyle Sinckler and Dave Attwood while skipper Steve Luatua is also back, and they will have a huge part to play holding back Exeter's relentless forward drives.

Bristol have suffered just one defeat in their last 15 Premiership matches - at home to Sale at the beginning of February - and overcame champions Exeter at Sandy Park in January. The chance to back them with a five-point start looks too good to miss.

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