The 2017 Rugby Championships returns to action this weekend after a week off for all teams. The South Africans and New Zealanders have smiles on their faces as they are undefeated while Argentina and Australia are yet to earn a victory. We preview both games of the weekend in our 2017 Rugby Championships Betting Tips below.
New Zealand vs Argentina (Saturday 5.35pm AEST)
Argentina could be in for a long night when they come up against the All Blacks in New Zealand. Argentina hasn’t defeated New Zealand in their 24 attempts and we, along with the rest of the world, don’t think it will happen on Saturday night.
The Pumas haven’t been at their best to start the campaign after suffering two double digit defeats against the South Africans. It has been their slow starts and second half capitulations that has cruelled the side and we are predicting worse things to happen for them in this contest.
New Zealand have also played below their standards, but they still did enough to earn two victories against the Wallabies and average 44 points in the two contests. However, their defence has shown flaws as Australia managed to break their line on multiple occasions. We don’t think it will be a concern for them in this contest though with the Pumas offering less in offence than the green and gold. The line is 30.5 points for Saturday’s match and despite the All Blacks clearing the margin in only one of the past eight matches against the Pumas, we are backing them to do so in this contest due to their poor performance in their last start.
TIP: All Blacks at the line (-30.5) - $1.90 at William Hill
Australia vs South Africa (Saturday 8.05pm AEST)
The Wallabies are without a victory to start the Rugby Championships but they will head into the contest with the Springboks as favourites. The side was embarrassed in the opening match, despite their second half performance. However, they turned things around quickly to do everything but win in their last match against the All Blacks. The side lead 17-0 before New Zealand switched into gear and they held onto the lead entering the final minute but as usual, the All Blacks found a way to win and break the hearts of the green and gold.
Meanwhile the Springboks are tied on the top with New Zealand after two solid performances against Argentina. They were never in danger of losing the matches but they weren’t overly convincing either. It was mainly their depth that proved the difference as they were able to use their bench effectively. Australia is favoured in the history heading into this encounter, winning four of their five home games in the Rugby Championship against South Africa, however, we are backing them to suffer a loss in this contest as the South Africans find a way to win late.
TIP: South Africa at the margin (1-12) - $3.20 at Sportsbet
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