International Rugby League: England seek series win over Kiwis

Matt Haynes | November 6, 2015

England v New Zealand

• Rugby League international
• Saturday, November 7th
• Kick-off: 14:30
• Olympic Stadium, London
• Live on BBC1

England expects in second Test thriller

The nature of the fightback against New Zealand in the first test at the KC Stadium suggests that this England side actually do have what it takes to finally challenge at the very top.

In the end, it was quite comprehensive, the final score finishing 26-12 to Steve McNamara’s side. Odds-on at 4/9 with Coral to win the match, this price suggests that England are heavily in the driving seat.

However, this Kiwi outfit should not be written off. Yes, they have left the supremely talented Shaun ‘Magic’ Johnson at home. However, they do have quality scattered throughout who won the last World Cup.

On the flip side, England aren’t at full strength either. With Sam Tomkins, as well as George and Luke Burgess all unavailable and Wigan Warriors talent Dominic Manfredi not picked, that is at least four players who would all be competing for a starting spot, however McNamara has equally talented options.

Challenge Cup kings, Super League winners and Grand Final champions with Leeds Rhinos, Ryan Hall and Kallum Watkins form a formidable combination in the backs at wing and centre respectively and either player’s odds of 8/1 and 10/1 respectively to score first a worth considering, while the equally gifted Joe Burgess on the other wing is also 8/1 in this market.