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Rovers can cover handicap

Last updated: 5th June 2008

A disappointing start to the third Test for England backers (86-5), and although they are recovering, my attentions have turned to the New Zealand innings.

The only price that stands out for me is the 9/2 with Sky Bet for Brendan McCullum to be the top New Zealand Batsman. Prior to the final Test, McCullum was complaining about back pain and with the news that he plays just as a batsman is a major plus.

His current Test average of 31.09 from 34 Tests proves what a capable batsman he is so I wouldn't put anybody off backing him.

Friday evening's live Sky Sports Super League game is a repeat of last weekend's Challenge Cup quarter-final match between St Helens and Hull KR.

Saints may have come out 24-18 winners but that result does not reflect the performance that Hull KR put in.

I still fancy the Saints to win the match but I think that the handicap of -14 points flatters them and would recommend backing Hull KR with the big start at 10/11.

As I've said I think the Saints will win but the 1/7 to win the match is to short and I would rather have a few smaller bets on the winning margin - Saints to win by 1 to 5 points at 15/2 and Saints to win by 6 to 10 points at 6/1.

With the weather expected to stay dry and with both teams playing free flowing rugby I can see this being a high scoring game.

The other Super League match on Friday evening sees top of the table Leeds taking on Hull FC. Leeds are dominating the Super League this season and I can't see Hull stopping them tomorrow.

With home advantage and the return of Jamie Jones-Buchanan and Eric Anselme I can see Leeds covering the handicap of -14.

I'm not one for taking on short prices but the evens for Leeds to be winning by at least 7 points at half time may represent some value against a Hull side who are without Shaun Berrigan and Tommy Lee.