Bledisloe Cup Preview: New Zealnd v. Australia

[plloyd88]

[COLOR=#333333][FONT=sans-serif]The Bledisloe decider takes place in Eden Park this Saturday. New Zealand will be reeling from their defeat last week where a few keys moments were the difference between the two teams. Leading up to the stroke of half time Julian Savea had ample space and just one player to beat to score and the whole stadium expected him to do what he always does and finish it.[/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=#333333][FONT=sans-serif]If it was any other rugby player facing him he probably would have but he found himself up against Michael Hooper, one of the finest defenders in world rugby. It looks like the irresistible force paradox was solved as the immovable object bludgeoned the unstoppable force into touch, preventing New Zealand from taking at least an 8 point lead into half time. The other defining moment was the introduction of Nic White. The Brumbies scrummie has had his fair share of critics but has been excellent for the Brumbies this year, at times acting as another fly half with his threat to the defensive line and impressive tactical kicking. White ghosted through New Zealand to score a try in a manner that is rarely witnessed against the All Blacks. This would give Australia the lead before White extended it with a penalty 48 metres out. New Zealand threw everything they had at them but the Wallabies held tough to record a 27-19 victory. It may have been the ideal wake up call Steve Hansen could have asked before they travel to England in a bid to be the first team to retain the World Cup. Lets take a look at this weeks teams.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[harry_rag]

As well as my system bet on Hooper anytime at 8/1, I've bought Australia's hotshots at 19 with SPIN (25 points per Speight, Kuridrani, Ashley-Cooper or Folau try). 23 to buy elsewhere and I'd say that's about the right price. A big enough upside for just one try here to make this worth the risk.