New Zealand vs. Ireland Odds: Back Ireland to upset the odds again and create more history

Well here we are, after wins for all of Ireland, England and Wales last weekend, we arrive into Saturday’s fixtures with all three respective Test series’ up for grabs. Last Saturday was an historic day for both Ireland and Wales, securing their first ever wins on New Zealand and South African soil, whilst England came away with a 25-17 victory to tie their series.

For Ireland, even more history awaits if they are able to secure a first ever series win in New Zealand, and Head Coach Andy Farrell has decided to make just the one change for the decider in Wellington. Auckland born Bundee Aki comes into inside centre for Garry Ringrose, whilst elsewhere, the iconic Johnny Sexton will make his 108th appearance in the Ireland shirt, equalling his former captain Paul O’Connell. 
For New Zealand and Head Coach Ian Foster, the pressure is definitely on. There is really public concern over the All Blacks’ form ahead of next year’s World Cup, and their first ever home loss to Ireland has only increased that pressure. For New Zealand, there are four changes to the starting XV, with Beauden Barrett retaining the 10 jersey. As ever, @PeteMarsden_ has previewed this crunch clash, and hope to provide a winner in this game, after one in England and Wales’ last week.

Starting off, I’m going to predict for Ireland to continue their remarkable recent record against the All Blacks, and top off an already historic time there with another win, wrapping up the series.

Ireland now have four wins in their last seven against the All Blacks, and have finally done the one thing they couldn’t, and beat New Zealand on their own turf. There is mounting pressure on the home side as previously mentioned, and with the shackles cast off this Irish side, I’m going for them to achieve a similar result to last week. 

Ireland have only suffered two competitive defeats in the last 12 months, in the first Test against New Zealand, and that devastating defeat in the Six Nations to France, and will be looking to keep up the momentum and secure the series here. At 3/1, I just couldn’t say no.

Next up, we’re looking at New Zealand native Bundee Aki to drive home the knife, and cross the white line. Aki has had a great impact on the Tour so far, scoring in Ireland’s first Test defeat at Eden Park, and having a very strong impact from the bench. The absolute unit of a man will be looking to create some more history in his original backyard, and what better way to do it than helping Ireland to another victory.

Jacinda Ardern, Ernest Rutherford, Sir Edmund Hillary, Lorde, your boys are in for one hell of a battle on Saturday.

As ever, best of luck if you’re following the game, and please remember to gamble responsibly.