B&I Lions: To roar in Durban?
At last the Test series has landed on our lap with South African and British Isles followers set to be glued to their screens for the next 240 minutes.
Team announcements filtered onto paper and websites during the week and the waiting public can now analyse a clear route to Johannesburg's third fixture, which many anticipate could become the deciding venue on July 4.
It certainly promises to be a tough one to call with ample head-scratchers regarding such debates as the 'underdone' talk, the Lions' bench impact or lack thereof, the Springbok number ten and full-back decision...the list continues, believe me.
One matter that has become apparent heading into this 2009 attraction is the camaraderie of the tourists along with largely good spirits and sporting behaviour between both camps.
Granted these sides have yet to meet in front of the red and green masses, but it has seemed very cosy compared to 2001 and 2005 don't you think. How long will that last??
This first Test in Durban cannot be underplayed though, and so shouldn't the Lions' task if they lose this Saturday. Next on their schedule will be Pretoria and then the capital, which are even tougher places to travel and beat South Africa. One senses it's now or never!
Elsewhere this weekend there are second Tests matches taking place in Wellington and Melbourne, where France and Australia look to double up against respective opponents New Zealand and Italy.
So let's see what the Tipster has for us this time around as we once again team up with Sky Bet to pick out the best punts on offer.
Banker of the week
Where else to start matters than the Springboks versus the 2009 British & Irish Lions.
Twelve years have gone by since Jeremy Guscott's wide-eyed grin - which to this day still hurts the natives - but now South Africa can finally have their vengeance.
But will the group be rusty having not played since either the Bulls' victorious 80 minutes or taking on a Namibian XV? I think yes. On the flip side, the Lions have not bowled me over despite five successive wins so after much deliberation here is the Tipster's choice...
Get on the British & Irish Lions (+8) in Durban!
Worth a shot
There will be some unfinished business in Wellington this weekend with Graham Henry looking to halt France's search for three straight victories.
New Zealand must step it up gear. Their defence and lacklustre first half manner in Dunedin was not like them and a first conceded try since last October will not sit well with the ABs.
Picture the clouds parting...Saturday's return of experienced centre Conrad Smith will not only boost midfield partner Ma'a Nonu but the whole New Zealand back-line.
Outside number ten Stephen Donald, I expect the home-based Hurricanes duo to hit their straps and be a major factor in levelling this end-of-season series.
Plump for New Zealand by 6-10 points in Wellington!
Hail Mary
Just the three notable fixtures on offer this weekend so here we go...
New Zealand, Australia, South Africa
Stake - £5.00 = £BIG Return!
Anything take your fancy?
Comments
Be the first to comment on this story..