The ‘House of Pain’ Awaits Springboks - Second Test

The All Blacks may have shattered South Africa’s image of omnipotent world beaters at Westpac Stadium last week but an injured Springbok is a dangerous animal and the talented bunch of players from Africa will be fighting to restore some national pride at Dunedin on Saturday.

South African coach, Pieter de Villiers, was outspoken about the host’s dubious scrumming techniques this week and he faces an even more trying scenario with captain and first choice hooker, John Smit, back home for treatment after a dangerous spear tackle by Brad Thorn in the opening salvos of the first test. Smit will be replaced by Bismarck du Plessis who has battled to find form in recent times and has had a problem finding his man in the lineout - the one area where the South Africans could dominate!

More Fire Power for All Black’s Scrum
Even though the All Blacks had the upper hand in the scrums, New Zealand coach, Graham Henry, has opted to start with John Afoa at tight-head prop at the expense of the experienced Greg Somerville and Anthony Boric replaces the banned Thorn.

Hopefull the weather will be kinder to the combatants this week and if this is the case then we could all be in for a more exciting, expansive game - the kind of game Pieter du Plessis is dying for his prodigies to adopt. With the raw talent of Habana, Jean de Villiers and Montgomery at the back, it could prove exactly what the ‘Boks’ need to temper the formidable All Blacks and the House of Pain!

Sports bookmaker, bet365, has South Africa as the underdogs at 3/1, New Zealand at 1/4 and a draw 22/1.

Up to £100 Free Bet at Bet365
Bet365 will match your first bet up to the value of £25. Thereafter your account will be credited with up to £25 for every 5th bet until you have redeemed the full value of £100

• Open your new account at Bet365
• Place your 1st bet and Bet365 gives you your 1st free bet
• Bet365 will then continue to give you more free bets as you punt

Bet365 Free £100 Tri-Nations Rugby Bets Bet365 Review