Australia set to punish try-shy Scotland once again

Scotland failed to muster a score of any sort against South Africa and Australia can inflict more misery on the home side who could struggle to get on the scoreboard once again.

The hosts are 4/9 to score under 1.5 tries and that looks like buying money.

Scotland were toothless against South Africa, and although Australia do not possess as much power in the pack as the Springboks, they should still have too much speed and flair for their opponents.

Australia scored 32 points against Ireland last week, notching four tries in the Aviva Stadium, and they should comfortably negotiate this trip to Edinburgh.

The pre-game drinking antics of several players, including six who have been banned for this game, could work in Scotland’s favour however it might not be that simple.

Those who are coming into the team will be keen to impress Australia coach Ewen McKenzie and the changes that McKenzie has made are all in the backs, meaning that the core of the Australian side shouldn’t be unduly affected.

Bet on Australia to cover 11.5 pt handicap at 10/11

Scotland fans will take some heart from their two most recent performances against Australia, which both finished in narrow wins (9-6 in 2012 and 9-8 in 2008).

However both of those victories were ground out with penalties, further enhancing the claim on the hosts scoring less than 1.5 tries at 4/9.

Ireland are a better side than Scotland but they couldn’t successfully cross the white line despite notching 15 points last week.

Scotland will be boosted by the return of captain Kelly Brown but the team and cohesion between players appears to have been disrupted by the injuries that the squad have endured during this series.

The Wallabies’ recent form against the weaker sides has been very strong – they beat Italy 50-20 and Argentina 54-17 – and they are worth backing to cover the 11.5 point handicap at 10/11.