Tonga showed plenty of gumption without much luck against Australia and they look primed for a minor upset of New Zealand when the teams meet at Mt Smart on Saturday night.
Best Bet
Stacey Jones would be happy with the effort his Kiwis displayed in his first Test at the helm against Australia but he would have been far from happy with the execution.
New Zealand had their opportunities with a 53-47 possession split, winning the tackle breaks and metres but were far too wasteful with the ball. They would have lost by much more if not for a wasteful and creatively-challenged Kangaroos outfit.
The only change for Jones is Leo Thompson coming in for Jordan Riki.
Tonga lost few admirers when going down 18-0 to Australia. The team has absolutely no luck with numerous tries overturned on Bunker review while there were more than a few dubious refereeing decisions.
Kristian Woolf has stuck fat with the team that really pushed the Kangaroos with just one change: Siua Wong in for Keaon Koloamatangi, who has left for the birth of his child.
Tonga have a clear advantage in the forwards and arguably have more damaging outside backs.
New Zealand have won six of the seven meetings and have won all three meetings at this venue by at least 20 points. Tonga did roll the Kiwis in 2017 though and in terms of talent, Tonga have a clear edge.
Tonga are a great bet getting the points.
Same Game Multi
Lehi Hopoate has nine tries in 14 NRL games and will play a big role in this game.
Jamayne Isaako has six tries in nine Tests for New Zealand and will benefit from marking up against statue Daniel Tupou.
Value Bet
One of the big edges Tonga have going into this game is on the edges and this should lead to Haumole Olakau’atu having a big game. He had a great game against Australia with seven tackle breaks to go with 116 metres. He is a renowned tryscorer at club level and looks a great bet this week.
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