Do you follow trends? I know a lot people do and if the trend is hot, it can be highly profitable. The rugby World Cup is currently underway in New Zealand and while the favourites are winning, they are often only just scrapping through. Of the results so far, 80 of the matches have favoured the team getting the points start. They are not winning outright (except for Canada who shocked everyone with a win over Tonga), however, when you take the points start betting, they are winning for punters.

In today’s World Cup game, Russia take on the USA and while the US are outright favourites at 2/5. In the handicap market (points start), Russia are even money with an 8 point head start. If the margin is less than eight points, or if Russia win, you win. The odds are skinny, but the result is tilted in your favour.

Tomorrow, New Zealand play Japan and while the Japanese can play the Kiwis should win easily. They are 1/50 to win with some bookmakers in World Cup betting, but generally speaking, bookmakers are refusing bets. Japan are on the end of a 50 point head start, again with odds of even money. Can the Kiwi’s win by more than 50? They don’t have a great record of large scores in World Cups – I’d be backing Japan to lose by less than 50.

Over 80% of bets on the team receiving the handicap has paid off so far. While the odds are skinny at even money, they represent good value when you consider the favourite is at 1/5 or worse. Do you cash in on trends?