New Zealand v England
Everything is before these two teams, with the winner assured a spot in the Final next week. England was gallant in defeat last week against the Kangaroos, to the point where they could’ve won in closing minutes. Still, there is something missing from their team that is holding them back from beating the Kiwis and Kangaroos when it matters. The Kiwis match was also close, however they were on the right side of the scoreboard courtesy of a try to Kenny-Dowall in the 75th minute. Prior to that, things were looking grim but they managed to hold together their undefeated record for the tournament. They are capable of making it 3-straight matches here, as their combinations are only getting stronger as the tournament progresses. England are too, but their forwards will find it tough matching the power of the Kiwis pack in the middle of the field. It will not be a total blowout either, there is everything to play for and this match could only be decided in the closing minutes.
Suggested Bet
New Zealand 1-6 @ $6
Whare to look = Dean Whare FTS and/or LTS @ $13 – England have looked vulnerable in the centres so far in the tournament and Whare is bound to build on his strong 2014 form. He is threatening anywhere on the field and will again be a strike weapon for the halves to look towards.
Australia v Samoa
By the time this match kicks off, the Aussies will know what is required of them to progress towards the Final. It could be more than a matter of just winning, to the point where they could have one eye on the scoreboard and the required points difference. They were lucky to overcome the English, with the lack of size in their forward pack seemingly weakening their ability in the middle of the field. They are missing a host of players, only compacted with several more players missing this week. Samoa will take confidence from yet another close loss, but will see this match as the prize to capture, with this perhaps their best chance to upset the Kangaroos. Still, they are going to have to rely on more than hope to get them through this match. The Kangaroos will know how to expose the weaknesses of their opponents better than anyone else, due to their sheer exposure in the NRL. The Kangaroos have been shaky throughout this tournament but they should be able to handle their opponents here, with fatigue growing for the impressive Samoan team at the wrong point of the competition.
Suggested Bet
Samoa +20.5 @ $1.85
Think deeper = Australia 13-18 @ $4.50 – If you are looking for more value in your investment, consider this option.
Matautia matters = Sione Matautia FTS and/or LTS @ $7 – He is only playing his second match in the green and gold but the potential is evident. Playing outside Dylan Walker will increase his chances, as he has the ability to attract two defenders. On top of that, he can fly high on the end of a kick to increase his potency.
Good luck!
Scooby
Please Note:
All of the above are the opinions of the author and are not recommendations or advice. The author may not be taking every bet listed above. Bet at your own risk.
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