Rugby
2011-09-17 - Australia vs Ireland
A Sports Betting Pick by Paddy
Rugby : Rugby World Cup 2011 : Pool C
Saturday, 17th September 2011 - Kickoff 8:30pm (local)
Two of world rugby’s better sides meet in the World Cup this weekend in what, on paper, looks like an intriguing tie. Ireland have struggled for form of late and face an Australia side who are second favourites to win the World Cup.
Ireland hope to improve on recent form
Ireland won their opening match in tricky conditions in New Plymouth but it was hardly a vintage performance. In a match littered with Irish handling errors there will be plenty for coach Declan Kidney to think about, with ex Irish international Keith Wood describing the Irish performance as ‘very lacklustre’.
Ireland have made four changes for the match against Australia including the return of European player of the year, Sean O’Brien. In fact, other than the injured David Wallace, Kidney names his strongest side to face the Wallabies on Saturday.
Jonathan Sexton keeps his place despite missing four of his five kicks against the USA and improvements in concentration and focus are going to be needed if Ireland have any chance at Eden Park. Even the experienced Jamie Heaslip admitted that: “I was nervous and I’m sure a lot of the other guys who hadn’t played in World Cups were nervous.”
Unconvincing against the USA, Ireland could get hammered by Australia if things don't improve.
Australia looking like potential world champions
A devastating second half performance saw Australia ultimately cruise past Italy in difficult conditions in Auckland. Tries from Ben Alexander, Adam Ashley-Cooper, James O’Connor and Digby Ioane gave the Wallabies a 32-6 victory and a bonus point and coach Robbie Deans was satisfied with the performance.
He said: “”We did well in the second half. We probably did well in the first half too, although it was not shown on the scoreboard. When they do get quick front foot ball they are a very difficult side to defend against
“We took time to settle, Italy had the benefit of the breeze in the first half but our intensity at the contact area was better in the second half.”
Australia seem to be peaking at just the right time for this tournament and promise to be a match for anyone.
Verdict:
Australia to keep up winning ways.
With the Wallabies running in four tries and seemingly in excellent form it promises to be a tough afternoon for Ireland in Auckland. Yes, the Irish have the capability and the players to win this match, but it’s the recent form of the Irish team that would be a concern.
Four pre-World Cup defeats and an unconvincing 22-10 win over a limited USA side is hardly a stable footing to meet the former world champions and Ireland will have to play significantly better than they have in recent months to stand a chance in this one.
Sadly, I can’t see this happening in a one-off occasion, and this could be a comfortable afternoon for Australia.
The Bet
Back the Wallabies with the 11 point handicap at 10/11 at Paddy Power.
The Pick :
Wallabies to cover an 11 point handicap
Gooner’s Statistical Value Bet
Back Australia to win and cover the 11 point handicap at 10/11
