Gloucester v Exeter predictions and rugby union tips: Hosts can show fight

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

Where to watch

BT Sport 1, 7.45pm Friday

Best bet

Exeter to win by one to 12 points
1pt 2-1 Betfair

Match preview

Exeter Chiefs suffered a surprise defeat at home to London Irish last week but rather than give Friday's opponents Gloucester cause for hope it might well have them fearing the worst.

The Chiefs don't lose many, especially at home, although they felt the effects of key absences when opening the Premiership season with two defeats before stringing together three solid wins.

But what marks Exeter out is their meticulous attention to detail and precise execution of a gameplan, and any setback usually leads to redoubled efforts to right any wrongs.

Coach Rob Baxter picked out a lack of accuracy and slow reaction as key factors in the Chiefs' defeat so expect a big response this week against a Gloucester side who have picked up three wins and a draw in their last four after losing their first two fixtures.

The Cherry & Whites forwards are sure to put up a big fight against an Exeter pack missing England squad members Jonny Hill and Sam Simmonds, plus the injured Luke Cowan-Dickie.

But Exeter's performance is unlikely to be about the individuals and they may be more tuned up to tackle a team on an unbeaten run than perhaps they were at home to a winless Exiles side.

The pressure is on the Chiefs not only to deliver a win but to tighten up their accuracy so we may not see a cavalier show from the visitors, but they should do enough to edge a victory.

Not got a bet365 account? Sign up today and get up to £100 in bet credits

Up to £100 in Bet Credits for new customers at bet365. Min deposit £5. Bet Credits available for use upon settlement of bets to value of qualifying deposit. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply.

CLAIM OFFER HERE

MORE FREE BETS

Today's top sports betting stories

Follow us on Twitter @racingpostsport