After a fairly predictable weekend during the quarterfinals, we are now left with four teams desperate to extend their stay within the competition for another week. Many will suggest that the matches that will be played this weekend with be a foregone conclusion, however at this stage of the competition, anything can happen. In saying that, if the two “underdogs” are to prevail, they have a very steep wall to climb. It has been a long season for all players involved in these matches but the prize of making the Final will see them desperate to prolong the toll on their bodies and delay any thought of an “off-season break”.  The most exciting occurrence this weekend will be the fact that both matches will be played on the hallowed turf of Wembley Stadium. It is a dream of many players to run out onto this ground, yet unfortunately not many players are afforded the chance. Such an event only adds to the argument that this tournament has been a success and the game of rugby league, albeit very slowly, is beginning to grow on the world stage. There is still the problem of viewing matches on “free-to-air TV” but if you can, tune in from 12am on Sunday morning to see some thrilling rugby league.

New Zealand v England

The first match of the “double header” is promising to be an intriguing match. The Kiwis are one team that everyone is wary of an aside from the Australians, almost to the point where depending on who you ask, they should be considered as favourites for the competition. Things have gone to plan for them but in some instance, they are yet to be tested by a tough opponent. Perhaps it will come in the form of England in this match but then again, they have left a lot to be desired in their efforts. While they have lost just the one match to the Aussies, they were pushed to another level against Fiji and then looked to be struggling early against France in their last outing. Of course, it will be a boost of confidence to them that they have been able to lift when it has been needed most. Still, the divide between the Kiwis, the Aussies and the rest of the competition has been evident. Unfortunately, it appears as though England are going to have a tough time here and the Kiwis should be able to gain the edge needed over their opponents. In saying that, the fact that the English will be playing on their home soil should lend this to being a close contest and I am inclined to go that way.

Suggested Bet = Kiwis 13+ @ $2.60
FTS and/or LTS = Dean Whare @ $11

Australia v Fiji

Not much else needs to be said about this match other than it will be a case of how much the Aussies win by. The Fijians have played strongly throughout the tournament and have earned their spot at this point of the competition. However in order to beat the Australians, they are going to need to pull something special out of their bag of tricks. Yet that doesn’t appear to be forthcoming and the fact that they were beaten by 40-points in the group stages adds fuel to the argument that this will not be a close game. The Australians have had things all their own way this tournament and probably will not find anything too difficult with their opponents. The Fijians will be tough to break down early, however true rugby league class should prevail in the end.

Suggested Bet = Aussies 31-40 @ $3
FTS and/or LTS = Darius Boyd @ $7

Good luck!
Scooby

Author

I have followed Rugby League since I was young enough to watch it and growing up in Sydney, it was inevitable. I will always make it my business to watch all 8 NRL fixtures per week and follow it with more than just passion. During my playing career, I have played at several representative levels, with and against current players. I began writing previews on NRL games early on in 2012 and really found a passion within this. I enjoy listening to various people and their opinions on the game, and then forming my own. Coupled together with another passion, gambling, I soon learnt that there was a market out there for more than the rugby league diehards. Hopefully I can pass on my knowledge of the game to help you win some cash.

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.
All of our information is provided free. If you want to show your support, if you are wanting to join a new bookmaker, please use our banners. Thanks.
Gamble Responsibly!