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Rugby handicap betting explained

One question that we are asked over and over again by users of RLBet.co.uk is what is handicap betting? It is something we refer to often in our match previews and is something quite common in Rugby League betting but for those new to the sport or new to betting here is our guide to Rugby League handicap betting.

Handicap betting, also referred to as the spread, is betting on a market when there is a deficit added to the outcome by the bookmaker. This deficit is the ‘handicap’ that must be made up.

In rugby matches the deficit is added points on the score for a team so to win the bet a team must beat the opposition by a score more than the handicap added.

An example of those could be betting on Leeds Rhinos v Wigan Warriors with the Rhinos have a +4 handicap. If the score finishes Leeds 30-33 Wigan, Leeds actually win on the handicap.

Different Types of Handicap Betting

There are 2 different types of Handicap Betting when it comes to Rugby League.

1. Handicap Match Betting: This is where the handicap is given on the amount need to overcome for a team before the game has started.

2. No Draw Handicap Betting: This is similar to the above but teams are given a handicap including half a point so that there can be no draw.

Why Is Handicap Betting Used?

Handicap betting is used to help even up the outcome of a match which is most popular in high scoring sports such as Rugby League.

This come sin useful when a big team is up against a team struggling and if the To Win market offers no value, the handicap market can still keep the excitement alive fans.

So that is rugby handicap betting explained, why not visit one of these bookmakers to place a bet on the action?

In a time not long since gone you would walk into a betting shop, place a bet on the team you fancied to win and collect your winnings after the match or headed down to the pub to tell everyone you’re never going to bet again after losing a cert!)

In recent years the internet as revolutionised betting on Rugby League and although the improvements in ease of betting and the choice available have no doubt been a great change for most, it has complicated things for many.

Here at RLBet.co.uk- the home of Rugby League betting, we know that if you understand the different markets you are not only more likely to bet on them but you also have a much better chance of winning and after all that is what we are all betting on Rugby League for.

Rugby League Betting Markets

Each bookmakers categorises the different betting markets in different ways which can only help in the confusion of things) but we here at RLBet.co.uk feel that is essence there are 3 different categories or betting markets for Rugby League.

Match Markets: Includes the traditional markets of choosing which team will win as well as try scorers, winning margins and more
Tournament Betting: These markets include betting on how teams and player will perform over the whole season with poplar choices including the Man of Steel winner, Grand Final Winner and teams to finish in the top 8.

In-Play markets: One of the more exciting and revolutionary type of betting. These markets are ones that only open after the match starts and must be placed whilst the action is ongoing.

Match Markets

The match markets make up the bulk of all betting markets with some offering a good chance of winning for those who study form guides and now about injuries and suspensions, so are perfect for betting on the team you support and some offer a fun bet on something which is down to pure luck or chance.

Although the different markets differ from bookie to bookie, here are some that any bookmaker worth sing will offer.

Tournament Betting

These are the markets for tournaments Challenge Cup, Super League, NRL, State of Origin, and Auckland 9’s) as a whole.

In-Play Markets

These are the betting markets that only become available for matches that are currently taking place or about to start).

Although not all bookmakers give in-play odds on Rugby League, the ones we have chosen below all do.

One thing to remember with in-play markets is that the majority will be constantly changing as the game goes on and certain ones will only be amiable in the opening stages.

Rugby League is one of the most exciting sports on the planet, full of skill, action and some of best entertainment on offer.

For many fans that is enough, but for an ever growing number there is a way to make the sport of Rugby League that bit more exciting, more entertaining and you even get the chance to win some money!
We are of course talking about Rugby League betting.

Where to Bet

The vast majority of United Kingdom facing bookmakers feature odds on a number of markets but as with most things in life, some bookmakers are better than other.

There is one clear winner at the moment when it comes to Rugby League betting and is Bet365.com. Not only do they offer odds on a he range of markets for not only the Super League but also the Challenge Cup, State of Origin, Challenge Cup and the NRL.

The NRL in fact is where Bet365.com really excels. Not only do they cover a wide range of markets for every team and every game but they also live stream every NRL game- which means you can legally watch each and every single NRL game and even enjoy some Rugby League betting whilst watching!

Here are our current favourite bookmakers for Rugby League betting including links to our reviews of them.

Rugby League Bookies

NAME	COMPETITIONS	DETAILS
	*Super League *NRL *Challenge Cup *Internationals	Registration and deposited account needed		Bet Now (18+ #ad)
	*Super League *NRL *Challenge Cup *Internationals	Registration and deposited account needed		Bet Now (18+ #ad)

Markets to Bet On

Not so long ago there were only a small number of markets to bet on, such as to win, first try scorer and tournament winner but with the rise of internet betting the range of markets available for Rugby League contains to grow to the point where it can be over whelming.

In general terms there are 3 different types of Rugby League betting markets, match markets, In-play markets and tournaments betting markets.

Match Markets: These are markets that relate to a single match with poplar options including the to win, first try scorer and handicap markets.

In-Play markets: A relatively new invention that adds an extra element to Rugby League betting. In-Play betting is simply the term given to betting on a match which is already underway. Popular IN-Play markets include next try scorer and the under/over market.

Tournament Betting: These are the markets that relate to tournament Super League, NRL, Challenge Cup etc.) rather than individual matches. Popular markets include regular season winner, to win outright and Man of Steel betting.

The number of markets and what they mean is too complex to cover in this guide please see our Rugby League Betting Markets guide for all the information you will ever need.

How to Bet

Rugby League betting has never been simpler with the vast majority of bookmakers offering the opportunity to bet via the internet on your PC/Mac, smart phone or tablet or more traditional methods such as in person or over a phone call.