A scrappy Jillaroos bested the Kiwi Ferns 14-0 in their opening match in Christchurch and with a stronger team back on home turf, Australia look an excellent bet to cover.
Best Bet
There is no doubt that Australia have had a more impressive Pacific Cup. After smashing Papua New Guinea 84-0, the Jillaroos held the Kiwi Ferns scoreless 14-0 at home.
New Zealand by contrast have been extremely underwhelming. They didn’t cover at home against the Jillaroos in a very poor showing while they didn’t get close to covering against the Orchids in a 36-0 win.
Australia are at near full strength – at least those selected in the squad – with just one change from their last game. Keilee Joseph comes onto the bench for Jess Sergis. The backline remains elite featuring the likes of Upton, Penitani, Kelly and Aiken while the pack has the likes of Elliott, Taufa and Mato. Olivia Higgins has recovered from a dislocated wrist.
Ricky Henry made a huge mistake in preferring rest over continuity, resting three key players last week. While Apii Nicholls and Annessa Biddle, Tiana Davison has moronically been left out.
Australia have won 11 of the last 15 Tests and should have more scope for improvement following their 14-0 Christchurch win.
With the Jillaroos winning three of the last five Tests against the Kiwi Ferns by more than 14, they look a lovely bet.
Same Game Multi
Jakiya Whitfeld scored five tries when meeting PNG and now has nine tries in three internationals.
Tiana Penitani had a great tryscoring season with nine tries in 11 games and has scored in both Tests for Australia.
Value Bet
Tamika Upton is one of the greatest tryscorers in NRLW history and she comes off here best tryscoring season with seven tries. In her four Tests, she has two doubles including one against New Zealand. She just scores at will.
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