Expat Magazine

244. Almost a Roar from the Lions

By Piperade
1st July. As much as I'm a passionate British & Irish Lions supporter, and however thankful I am for that win in the 2nd Test against New Zealand, I have to say that there's still a gap (but not a gulf) in the standard between NZ Test rugby and that offered up by the B&I Lions.
This was a "must win" game for the Lions, especially given that Barrett had an off day with his kicking, the match was played in torrential rain and NZ went down to 14 men after losing Sonny Boy Williams to a moment of madness (shoulder charge to Anthony Watson's head). Still, as we're constantly being told, a win's a win and the record books will only show that the Lions defeated NZ at Wellington in the 2nd test for the ABs first home defeat in 8 years. One major positive was that, unlike the B&I Lions, NZ were unable to score a try at home.. How often does that happen - especially as the NZ media had been castigating the Lions for their lack of tries.
Here are the highlights - full match to come:
I remain to be convinced that this B&I Lions selection truly reflected the best of rugby as played in the British Isles - but that's by the by. Well done you Lions..!     

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