State of Origin
State of Origin 
/ Nick Tedeschi / 24 May 2011 / Leave a comment Bet Now
The St George-Illawarra pivot is outstanding value for first try, despite the fact the Blues No.6 has not crossed for a try this season.
With his weekly analysis and hot tips, Nick Tedeschi is right across the upcoming State of Origin game.
New South Wales (v Queensland)
3 units +6.5 at handicap odds of $1.70
1 unit at match odds of $2.30
If Queensland are going to be vulnerable this series, it is going to be in the series opener, where the Maroons are missing three of their best outside backs while their backrow is a long way from best form.
The Blues have also picked the best team they could have, with the selection of Jamie Soward finally allowing New South Wales to play with some field position. Their kicking game over the last five years has been awful, but Soward is the game's best kicker.
Over the last six years, the biggest margin in the series opener has been 10 points, with the last four of the last six decided by under seven points.
Ricky Stuart will have the Blues cranked to the eyeballs and with the Maroons lacking their usual strikepower out wide, this one should be close, with an upset on the cards.
CLICK HERE FOR THE +6.5 at handicap odds.
CLICK HERE FOR THE MATCH ODDS.
Jamie Soward First Try
0.25 units at first tryscorer odds of $21.00
The St George-Illawarra pivot is excellent value for first try, despite the fact the Blues No.6 has not crossed for a try this season.
The outstanding playmaker has been encouraged to run the ball in recent weeks and he has been electric, busting holes and zipping clear. He will be keen to make his mark early with some physicality to dispel speculation he is vulnerable, so his running game should be on.
He can get over first.
CLICK HERE FOR THE first tryscorer odds.
New South Wales Penalty Goal
0.5 units at first scoring play odds of $7.00
All indicators coming out of the New South Wales camp are that they are looking to play a conservative game.
Paul Gallen and Greg Bird reduced their offloading in their last club appearances, while Ricky Stuart is traditionally a very conservative coach more concerned with defence than attack.
That should lead to a low-scoring affair and with Jamie Soward's ability to slot goals from 50m, the Blues penalty option seems a legitimate runner.
CLICK HERE FOR THE 0.5 units at first scoring play odds.
