Match Preview | Benetton (A)

• 28 Feb 2024
• Match Preview

We're off to Italy. In Round 11 of the URC, Glasgow Warriors take on Benetton. In a clash that could change the look of the top half of the table, both sides are looking for a win.

Only four points stand between Warriors and Benetton. A win for either side could drastically change the look of the top 4 in the URC. Furthermore, with only a few rounds to go, every point is crucial for both sides.

After soaring into second place with a 40-7 win against Dragons at Scotstoun on 17 February, Glasgow is searching for another win to ensure top two positioning. Benetton sit in fourth place. Any points to be won could determine home or away games in the knockout rounds of this competition.

Debut tries for Ben Afshar and first-time capped Facundo Cordero peppered an exquisite game for Glasgow against the Dragons. Alongside scores from Stafford McDowall and Josh McKay—who becomes the fastest try-scorer in the URC this season—Glasgow will be looking to capitalise on high-scoring games. Glasgow had 25 clean breaks and beat 39 defenders against the Dragons. With 96% tackle success, Glasgow is proving to be strong in both attack and defence.

OPPOSITION LOWDOWN

Benetton’s four game winning run in BKT United Rugby Championship ended with their defeat to Leinster at the RDS Arena in Round 10. The Irish side who sits at the top of the table defeated Benetton 47-18. Despite the loss in Ireland, Benetton achieved a 94% tackle success and won 5 turnovers.

The Warriors have won three out of five of the last games against Benetton, the most recent being a 26-12 win against the Italian side at Scotstoun in November 2023. However, in these last five games, the home side has always prevailed.

The Italians are unbeaten in any competition at Stadio Monigo since the Lions beat them there in the URC almost twelve months ago.

Benetton have a higher overall turnover statistic compared to Glasgow throughout the 2023/24 season. However, Glasgow have conceded fewer points and have a higher tackle success overall.