22nd Feb 2012 | Six Nations
England v Wales Handicap Tip
It might not be pretty but England are developing the happy knack of grinding out wins.
Having been rather pessimistic about England’s Six Nations chances, I tipped them to only win one game, I’ve been impressed with their determination this campaign. Wins against Scotland and Italy were gained with little flair but they were achieved nonetheless – better England teams have lost those types of game.
Two wins from two does wonders for your confidence, unless you’re a bookmaker it seems. The odds compilers have deserted England and priced them at 8/5 (Sportingbet) to win at Twickenham, the sort of odds you would get if a southern hemisphere team were the opponents.
Wales have some hugely talented individuals but pundits seem to have got carried away with their praise. Ireland gifted them victory in the opening weekend, whilst Scotland lost their heads for ten second-half minutes. Without those generous gifts, Wales would have lost both games. The same applies to England, the beneficiaries of two charge-down tries, but it shows that the teams are more closely matched than might first appear.
The 8/5 (Sportingbet) on an England win is tempting, but in a tight game I recommend the added insurance of backing the hosts in the handicap market. Betfred offer an England win at 10/11 with a four-point head start.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 21:41 22nd Feb, 2012 but subject to change
