The Wallabies will be looking to bounce back from the heavy defeat in Sydney last week when they host the New Zealand All Blacks in a Tri-Nations match in Brisbane on Saturday. We take a look at the game from a betting angle.
A lot was expected of Australia after their draw against New Zealand in Wellington a few weeks ago, but a subsequent 20 point defeat in Auckland was then followed by a 38 point loss in Sydney last week. Australia were missing a few key players going into the clash, but it was still a very disappointing performance given they started only 10 point underdogs.
New Zealand, on the other hand, came out of the draw in Wellington under severe pressure which they relieved to a degree in Auckland before charging to a convincing win in Sydney. They will be keen to keep the winning run going but at the same time look lightly to blood some of the younger fringe players in a bid to give them experience.
New Zealand’s last 4 visits to Australia has seen them win 2 and lose 2. Australia’s recent record in Brisbane against New Zealand is fairly impressive and they have won 2 and drawn 1 of their last 4. Matches in Brisbane have tended to be lower scoring and in those 4 games, 3 of the 4 matches have had 45 points or less in them.
BETTING – Click here to bet
Australia 7/11
Draw 33/1
New Zealand 1/7
Handicap: Australia (+14.5) at 9/10, New Zealand (-14.5) at 9/10
Suggested Bet: New Zealand 1-12 points at 15/10 Winning Margin
The current handicap of 14.5 points looks well set and if anything I would be leaning towards Australia beating the handicap against a New Zealand side that will be disrupted by selection changes. Brisbane is also a ground where Australia tend to perform well and I think they can push the All Blacks this weekend although can’t see the visitors losing.
Note: All prices correct at the time of writing but are subject to change
