The evidence from the return of domestic European football suggests that playing games behind closed doors effectively removes home team advantage, which isn’t too surprising, but it does require some adjustments from the punting perspective.
The loss of home advantage is certainly bad news for relegation-threatened Aston Villa, who need all the help they can get if they are to avoid the drop. A home tie against local rivals might ordinarily be the ideal opportunity to start the fightback, but in front of an empty stadium, the visitors should be able to exert their class.
Wolves have picked up where they left off before the suspension, easing past West Ham and Bournemouth without conceding a goal, while Villa have earned one point from their last three, courtesy of a fortunate home draw with Sheffield United. Back the visitors to continue their strong form on Saturday.
North Queensland have a solid record in this fixture, winning six of their last ten against these opponents, but they are the clear outsiders here.
The Cowboys have had a tough 2020, with injuries playing a major part in their struggles, and their only two wins in this campaign came against the lowly Bulldogs and Titans. They also go into this game on a significant losing streak, having lost their last three NRL games, each by double-figure margins.
By contrast, the Knights have been one of the leading teams this season, losing only one game, against the Melbourne Storm. They had no problem brushing aside a struggling Broncos side last time and they look a solid bet here.
The Blues have won both of their Super Rugby Aotearea games to date and they are strong favourites to continue their perfect record against the Highlanders in Auckland.
But the visitors shouldn’t be underestimated, given their impressive 1-point win over the Chiefs in their opening game. They also have a strong record against these opponents, having won nine of their last twelve meetings.
Beating the Chiefs on their home patch in that opening game also showed considerable resolve, and having a enjoyed a weekend off, and with no significant injury concerns, the Highlanders look like a value bet at their current price.
Total Odds for this multiple: 12/1 Remember, multiple prices are based on our Sportsbook product, so any winnings are exempt from commission.
Source: Betfair Premier League
