First Try Scorer
First Try Scorer
A popular rugby betting market where you predict which player will score the first try in a match
🏉 Definition
The First Try Scorer market is a player prop bet available in rugby union and rugby league matches. Your goal is to correctly guess which player will score the first try of the match.
A try is scored when a player grounds the ball in the opposition’s in-goal area, typically worth 5 points in rugby union and 4 points in rugby league.
🔢 How It Works
Let’s say:
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Match: New Zealand vs. Australia
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You bet on Will Jordan to score the first try
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Odds: 7.00
If Jordan scores the first try of the match, you win:
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Stake × Odds = payout
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$10 × 7.00 = $70
If anyone else scores the first try (or if a penalty goal happens first), the bet loses.
🚨 Key Notes
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Only tries count, not penalty goals or drop goals
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If the match has no tries, the bet loses
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If your chosen player does not start the match, the bet is typically voided
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If your player enters the match after the first try is scored, the bet automatically loses
🧠 Strategy & Insights
Because this is a high-risk bet, smart punters look for:
📊 Performance Stats
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Players with high tries per game ratios
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Wingers and full-backs often have higher try counts
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Teams that start strong or dominate early
🧮 xT (Expected Tries)
Some sportsbooks and advanced models now include expected tries metrics, similar to xG in soccer.
🛡️ Defensive Weaknesses
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Bet on players going against teams with poor first-half defense
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Slow-starting defenses offer value odds
🏃 Offensive Structure
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Players positioned in teams that spread the ball wide early
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Clubs that target the same edge or rely on a go-to finisher
🔁 Common Variants
| Market Type | Description |
|---|---|
| First Try Scorer | First player to score a try in the match |
| First Try Scorer (Team) | First try scorer within a specific team |
| Anytime Try Scorer | Player scores a try at any point during the match |
| Last Try Scorer | Player scores the final try of the match |
| Each-Way First Try Scorer | Some sportsbooks offer half-odds if the player scores 2nd, 3rd… |
📉 Risk and Reward
| Risk | Reward |
|---|---|
| High: One mistake and bet loses | High: Odds typically between 5.00 to 30.00 |
| Starters only | Clear rules make it easier to research |
| Often featured in promos | Boosted odds and bet builder bonuses common |
❗ Common Scenarios and Rules
| Scenario | Rule |
|---|---|
| Player is named but doesn’t start | Bet is void (depends on bookie) |
| Player comes on after first try | Bet is lost |
| No tries scored at all | Bet is lost |
| First try disallowed (TMO/VAR) | Bet rolls over to next valid try |
| First score is not a try (e.g., penalty) | Bet still active until first try occurs |
📌 Tips for Success
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Focus on wingers, full-backs, or explosive centers
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Study the kick-off patterns and attacking sequences
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Combine with team try history and lineup news
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Avoid players who frequently get substituted early
🧾 Summary
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Bet Type | Prop bet – Player scoring first try |
| Sports | Rugby Union, Rugby League |
| Risk/Reward | High / High |
| Best Used When | You have strong player and matchup knowledge |
| Great For | Advanced bettors, value seekers, promo hunters |