Punters Put Boot Into Nz

Illawarra Mercury

Friday April 23, 2004

NEW Zealand will start tonight's rugby league Test at EnergyAustralia Stadium as a rank outsider after being all but deserted by punters on both sides of the Tasman.

The Kiwis have had a horror lead-up to the match, culminating in the loss of captain Ruben Wiki to suspension. As a result, they've been friendless in the markets and will start the match at long odds to repeat their October success over Australia.

``We've taken the grand sum of $24 on New Zealand," a leading bookmaker said.