When it comes to sports betting, rugby offers several markets that are generally seen as safer options. These choices reduce the risk of losing your stake, but like all bets, they come with their own downsides. Here’s a look at the top five safest rugby bets and the drawbacks you might face with each.
Match Winner (Head-to-Head)
The Safe Bet: Choosing the winner in a rugby match is as straightforward as it gets. You just pick the team you think will win, and that’s it. This simplicity makes it a popular choice for beginners.
The Downside: The odds can be quite low, especially when a strong team is pitted against a weaker one. This means your potential winnings might not be very high unless you’re willing to risk a larger amount of money.
Double Chance
The Safe Bet: Double chance betting allows you to cover two of the three possible outcomes in a game—one of the teams wins, or the match ends in a draw. This type of bet offers you a greater chance of winning your wager.
The Downside: While safer, the odds for double chance bets are low. Even compared to a straight winner bet, which itself has smaller returns.
Handicap Betting
The Safe Bet: In handicap betting, one team gets a virtual advantage before the game starts. For example, if you bet on a team that gets a -7.5 point handicap, they need to win by 8 points for you to win your bet. This can even level the playing field and offer good odds.
The Downside: Handicap betting requires understanding both teams’ strengths and weaknesses. Misjudging these can lead to losses, as you need to accurately predict who will win and how much they will do so.
Under/Over Points
The Safe Bet: Betting on whether the total points scored will be over or under a predetermined number is a great way to bet without picking a winner. This can be particularly predictable in games featuring consistently high-scoring or defensive teams.
The Downside: Unpredictable weather, injuries, or unexpected tactical changes can affect the points scored. This is a risk to your bet.
First Scoring Play
The Safe Bet: Predicting the method of the first scoring play (try, penalty, or drop goal) involves understanding the teams’ playing styles. Teams that start aggressively are likelier to score a try as their first scoring play. This makes it a relatively safe bet if you have done your homework.
The Downside: Early game dynamics can be unpredictable. A sudden penalty or a strategic decision to go for a drop goal instead of a try can upset your predictions, leading to a lost bet.
Tips for Safer Betting
While the above markets are safer, they could be more foolproof. Here are a few tips to help you minimize risks:
- Do thorough research: Everything from the reputation of your betting site of choice to the team dynamics and stats can impact your success. Check playcasino.co.za for the latest reviews and tips.
- Diversify your bets: Don’t put all your money on one type of bet. Spreading your bets across different markets can help balance potential losses.
- Set a budget and stick to it: It’s crucial only to bet what you can afford to lose. Setting a limit for yourself can help you enjoy betting without risking financial trouble.
Betting on rugby can be an exciting and engaging experience, especially when you are familiar with the safest markets. However, it’s important to remember that no bet is without risk. By understanding the potential downsides and preparing accordingly, you can enjoy betting while minimizing risk. Responsible betting is the best strategy for enjoying and sustaining this activity over the long term.
