With the Gallagher Premiership taking a well-earned rest and with me still choaking on my Wasps plus 2.5, I feel it may well come in the nick of time. Instead, it’s freed some time and thought to have a look at the 2021 Autumn Internationals, so let’s get cracking.
2021 Autumn Internationals – Italy v Argentina
The Azzuri were competitive in stages last week against an inconsistent performance from an All-Blacks side who only hit their straps in the latter stages, with their fitness and pace proving way too good for the hosts. Italy managed 3 penalties but other than that they were kept at arm’s length quite comfortably for most of the match but did manage to finish within the 54-point handicap.
Most disappointing in the recent Rugby Championship, the Pumas battled to create scoring opportunities and appeared to be a tired side. However, they managed to stay within last week’s handicap of 16 against France and were in the game for most of the 80 minutes, with the chances of winning the game only lost late on.
This week some rotation amongst the Pumas has led to a slightly weaker side in my opinion whilst their hosts have named a similar side to last week.
Italy have lost their last 5 matches to Argentina played at home, though the last match played was back in 2017.
Once again, the forecast is for rain as it was last week, however there was no rain last week and it’s best to keep an eye on the telly.
Summary
Tough game to call this as I was leaning on Italy plus early in the week. However, I had hoped for a slightly larger handicap than the 7.5 points set. I won’t be as bullish, instead just 2 units on the plus 7.5 points on the handicap is the interest call.
2021 Autumn Internationals – Scotland v South Africa
Strong betting support followed Scotland right up until kick off last week as they edged the Wallabies in a low scoring battle. Scotland played well and were defensively very sound, punishing Wallaby errors with counter attacks.
They face the ruling world champions who dug out an impressive victory over a spirited and much improved Welsh side. Wales can count themselves lucky though for staying within the 9.5 handicap as they were on the right side of some dubious calls by ref Ben O’Keefe and his assistants.
It’s been a long season for the Boks with the B & I tour followed by the Rugby Championship, though to be fair several players have been kept in cotton wool and fatigue may not be as big a factor as I initially believed.
Willie le Roux and Elton Jantjies are the two notable changes to the Springboks starting XV.
The weather will be dry and only a small chance of showers.
Summary
I am expecting another low scoring match here and a look at total points may well prove rewarding, I am hoping for a quote of 47.5 or thereabouts. The handicap is one of the lowest in years and despite much improvement from the hosts, I can’t help but feel that the Boks forwards and bench will eventually prevail and cover the handicap of 4.5 points at 15/20 and Hollywoodbets for 3.5 Units.
2021 Autumn Internationals – Ireland v New Zealand
The Japanese put in their worst performance for some time last week in Dublin. They were way below par and clearly missed several players that normally make up the backbone of the side. Ireland, on the other hand, were given no sort of challenge as they dominated the set pieces and cut the Japanese back line to ribbons. However, that may work against them in this huge clash on Saturday.
As mentioned, the All Blacks were not at their best last week but still dispatched Italy with ease. Ian Foster has picked his strongest side possible for this encounter and we are in for a feast.
The weather should be mild with only a small chance of rain.
Summary
As both sides should unravel their best starting XV’s available, it’s a game I think will be as brutal as expected. Ireland had an easy run last week against Japan while it took a while for NZ, albeit a changed team, to put Italy to the sword. I would have preferred Ireland to have had a harder warm up but was impressed by what I saw.
I’ve been lining this bet up for ages and am all over the Irish plus 11.5. This is a great opportunity for them, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they manage another win. The safer option though is 5 units Ireland plus 11.5 points at 5/7.
2021 Autumn Internationals – England v Australia
It took a little while for England to hit their straps against a poor Tonga last week but when they did manage to shake the ring rust, they were most impressive. We can expect a few changes here from that side and it will a tough match for the Wallabies to win.
Having a fair amount of ball last week against the Scots, the Wallabies made hard work of their efforts, trying in vain to break down their resolute hosts. In the end they failed narrowly and will find things tougher this week around.
Conditions should be fine and mild.
Summary
England showed few signs of being off the pace last week against Tonga. Yes, it was a poor Tonga, but it was also a mixed bag of starters and regulars for England.
Australia are missing two tight heads and will struggle in the set pieces while their backs made numerous errors last week and can’t afford to play so loosely against the hosts. I think
England will be too strong and as the game draws to a close England should pull away. I suggest England minus 11.5 at 5/7 for 3 units.
Follow me @BrenHBetsnet on Twitter.
Bet on Rugby at www.hollywoodbets.co.uk or www.hollywoodbets.ie
