The revival of international rugby league continues and following on from the success of the 2021 (played in 2022) Rugby League World Cup, a 6-team 2-pool tournament has been created. The first game of this will be a rematch of the RLWC Final with Australia playing Samoa in Townsville. With Origin generally the centrepiece of the rugby league world, plenty of passion will be seen from both sides. The on-field action promises to be exciting and BeforeYouBet is here to take a look at the action and hopefully find you a winner to add to your enjoyment.
2023 Pacific Championships Betting Tips
Australia vs Samoa
Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Saturday 14th October, 8:10pm (AEST)
Australia was victorious over Samoa to capture the RLWC title last year, defeating their opponents 30-10. Heading into the game as favourites, the Kangaroos dictated the terms of the contest and lead 14-nil following a tight first half. They continued with their dominance in the second half, with Samoa unable to match them to the same standard across all areas. Australia have easily won the past 4 contests over Samoa with the combined total sitting at 186-28, but the gap is narrowing between the two teams.
Still considered a tier two nation, Samoa will feature a host of NRL stars who have featured in Origin and throughout the season for their respective club teams. Meanwhile, while not at full-strength, the Kangaroos still have an edge in class and will not want to drop the standards which have been developed under Mal Meniga, which has seen relevance return to the international game.
The strength of each side is highlighted in betting markets, with the Aussies posted as unbackable favourites ($1.02 vs $13). Both sides are missing regular starters to their teams, with Samoa impacted more compared to their opponents. They will be able to match it with their opponents for stages of the match but ultimately, the strength of the Australian team will be too much. The dominance exists in their forward pack; the power is consistent and will be maintained by players coming off the bench. The spine of Tedesco, Munster DCE and Hunt will be able to wear down their opponents and create attacking opportunities for their outside backs. The form of DCE and Hunt in Origin this year proved just how dangerous of a combination they are, with Tedesco and Munster expected to find their best in a high-quality team.
You have to go searching for value and as this is the opening game of the (short) competition, it is preferred to keep it simple and build a bank across the 4 weeks of this tournament. Australia will dominate and while it may take a while for them to break their opponents down, ultimately, their relentless attacking power over 80 minutes will be too much. This will be well complimented by strong defence which should limit the Samoan’s attacking options and create a comfortable margin of victory.
Australia 19+
$1.53 (3.5 Units)
More Bets
Same Game Multi
Leg 1: Cobbo 2+ Tries
Leg 2: Staggs 1+ Try E
Leg 3: Edwards 1+ Try
All three players are relatively new faces to this set up. They will benefit from receiving the ball in positive field position. Expect them to want to leave their mark and make a statement with what they can do at international level.
SGM Odds: $11 at TAB (0.5 Units)
PNG vs Cook Island
Santos National Football Stadium Port Moresby, Sunday 15th October, 3pm (AEST)
A rare home game for PNG, they are the stronger team across the park and once they gain momentum, they will look to put on a show for their passionate home fans.
Suggested Bet: PNG 13+ $1.48 at Ladbrokes (2.5 Units)
