The RaboDirect PRO12 reached a record-breaking midway point to the regular season after the conclusion of round 11 – Luciano Orquera’s perfect 9 from 9 penalty goals in Aironi’s 27-13 win over Benetton Treviso set a new record for an individual; Murrayfield saw a record RaboDirect PRO12 home crowd for Edinburgh beating the attendance set in this fixture 3 years ago, whilst in the same game Glasgow Warrirors became the first side to record successive draws in the history of the tournament.
Round 12 is split over the New Year, 3 games in 2011 and the remainder in 2012. The round opens on Friday with Newport Gwent Dragons welcoming Scarlets to Rodney Parade, whilst over in Belfast, Munster are the visitors at Ravenhill. Both home sides will be looking for a victory to create a positive end to the year.
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The only game on New Year’s Eve is in Italy where Aironi, having secured their first win over local rivals Benetton Treviso last time out, will be looking for a fist ever season’s double over their visitors.
The Irish Inter Pros continue on New Year’s Day when table topping Leinster., already 6 points clear of second placed Ospreys, travel west to Connacht in the hope of stretching their lead at the top of the table.
The 1872 challenge continues in Glasgow with honours even after the first round of games between the two Scottish sides, the Warrirors will be hoping home advantage can secure their victory and maintain their spot in the Play-Off Zone.
The round wraps up in Swansea where Cardiff Blues, who sit just outside the top four but have a game in hand over their opponents, face an Ospreys side who know any slip up could see them drop down the table, with Munster just one point behind them.
The same four teams have remained in the Play-Off Zone for the past four weeks, Round 12 will decide if they remain in that position for the start of 2012.
