Ireland v South Africa predictions and rugby union tips: Boks to keep it close

Free rugby tips, best bets and analysis for Saturday's autumn international between Ireland and South Africa.

Where to watch

Amazon Prime, 5.30pm Saturday

Best bet

South Africa +5
2pts 10-11 Hills

Malcolm Marx to score a try
1pts 3-1Coral, Ladbrokes

Match preview

Ireland's historic series win in New Zealand in the summer propelled them to the top of the world rankings, but South Africa are the world champions and coach Jacques Nienaber has been happy to point out where his team have a winning edge.

Nienaber claims Ireland will struggle against the physicality and athleticism of his players, pointing to their run of three successive defeats to France.

It would be too simplistic to say that the Springboks will prove too powerful for this ever-improving Ireland side, but a look down the teamsheet highlights what a stellar South Africa side this is and a close battle looks on the cards.

The Boks have after all also beaten New Zealand this year and finished just a point behind them in the Rugby Championship table.

They boast immense power in the pack and the finishing speed of Cheslin Kolbe and Makazole Mapimpi, although a lot will depend on the ability of young half-back pairing Damian Willemse and Jaden Hendrikse to control the game.

Ireland's attacking play was well executed and at times devastating in New Zealand, and South Africa will want to close them down effectively through their forwards and kick well from hand to keep play away from their own half.

That is an area they have long specialised in and this looks set to be a fascinating and hard-fought battle, so taking the handicap start for the visitors looks the best play.

And if the Bok forwards do lead the way, hooker Malcolm Marx, who bagged a brace against Argentina in the summer, looks a worthwhile tryscorer bet.

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