Betting: Bet on England to end Springbok hoodoo in style
ENGLAND will be looking to end a winless run that has lasted since 2006 as they host the Springboks at Twickenham on Saturday in the first of their Autumn internationals.
The Red Rose are unbeaten in 10 internationals under Aussie coach Eddie Jones and will be looking to remain unbeaten for a full calendar year for the first time in 24 years.
Their newly found arrogance and ruthlessness under Jones has seen them rise to number two in the world rankings behind the All Blacks.
England enter the game as red-hot favourites, despite none of their squad having tasted victory over South Africa in full internationals. They’ll be desperate to right that wrong this weekend.
Their opponents seem to be in a state of turmoil – a draw to the Barbarians last weekend at Wembley followed an unimpressive Rugby Championship campaign.
South Africa will look towards England’s lengthy injury list as a reason for optimism; one that includes World Player of the Year nominee Maro Itoje, Anthony Watson, James Haskell and George Kruis.
However, England winger Jonny May returns to the international frame after 10 months out with a knee injury.
May has good memories of Twickenham – all of his six international tries have come at HQ.
I like the look of Betway’s 9/1 for him to dot down first.
He’ll add to the attacking power of a side hoping to capitalise on the defensive frailties that plague a South African outfit with four losses in their last five Tests.
Buy England’s supremacy at 13 with Sporting Index.
Pointers
Jonny May first try – 9/1 (Betway)
Buy England supremacy – 13 (Sporting Index)