Wallet beats heart in World Cup final

Ifancied England to win the Rugby World Cup at the beginning of the Tournament and a few weeks ago finally took the plunge and backed them at 9/2. I knew they would have to beat New Zealand in the semifinal and that would quite likely set up a final against South Africa.

I was delighted to cheer England home against New Zealand last week, having also backed them to win the match at 28/10. When the Springboks edged Wales by three points on Sunday it left me in a rather awkward position, with my heart urging me to support the Springboks in the final, but my wallet set to get nicely bolstered by an England victory.

Over the years, my head has ruled my heart in sports betting and this will be no exception as analysing the game, I feel that England will be that bit too strong for the Boks. I have also taken them to win by four points or more.

My intention was to watch this game at home alone, where I didn’t have to feel icy or perhaps even aggressive stares from Bok supporters every time the English score, but as it happens, we will be attending a braai and now I am going to be forced to stare passionate Boks supporters in the eye as I carry out an imaginary fist pump after an English try.

How, some will ask, can you back against the Springboks? Well, as a sports better I have learnt to separate emotion from the decisionmaking process as far as possible.

I would also argue that looking to profit from an England win is no different to taking money offshore as you look to protect your nest egg against a volatile and weak rand. Most people would applaud such a decision as being wise given the current state of our economy and I see my decision to profit from the English this weekend as no different.

Should the Boks win I will shrug off the financial loss and celebrate a great win for South Africa. If England win, I will quietly enjoy the profit. Come to think of it, I cannot lose.

Brent Graham is a sports betting blogger at

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