Expect a stronger display from New Zealand at Anfield

BBC2, 2.30pm Sunday

England seized the initiative in their three-match Test series against New Zealand with an 18-16 victory in a pulsating opening encounter in Hull.

However, bookmakers expect the Kiwis to hit back at Anfield with the tourists just 4-7 to level the series.

England will have to make do without skipper Sean O’Loughlin, who limped off early in the win at the KCOM. Castleford loose forward Adam Milner replaces O’Loughlin in Wayne Bennett’s 19-man squad with James Graham taking over the captaincy in his hometown.

O’Loughlin’s absence is a blow but there was plenty of evidence in Hull to suggest that even with him in their ranks, New Zealand could ensure the series goes to a decider at Elland Road next Sunday.

Barring a moment of magic from debutant Oliver Gildart, England rarely looked like unlocking the New Zealand defence with ball in hand and their other two tries came via a last-tackle kick and a penalty try.

The Kiwis, meanwhile, looked much more inventive in attack with half-back duo Shaun Johnson and Kodi Nikorima calling the shot. They crossed the England whitewash with two well-worked moves and could have scored more were it not for some rustiness.

With another week’s training under their belts to perfect their combinations, the Kiwis should be much more clinical in Liverpool. Take them to win by up to two converted scores.

Recommendation
New Zealand to win by one to 12 points
2pts 15-8 Betfair, Paddy Power

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