Tourists can play a bit but it can be hard watch
Lions again showed their power and value with their victory over the Chiefs, but gee they can play negatively.
You could argue rugby broke out in the 58th minute when Jack Nowell raced across for his try, but before that it was dire for patches.
The Chiefs were awful, something that was only really matched by the performance of referee Jerome Garces, who is in charge for the second test. He must have a holiday home in somewhere like Swansea, judging by a couple of those early penalties.
Still, the Chiefs didn’t show their full capability and it was cruel they missed so many frontline players.
The tight five played well with the ball in hand, but the Lions roasted them at scrum time. The tourists also proved players like Nowell and Liam Williams have the ability to run out wide. Despite that, the execution was lacking with a few of the backs’ passing moves. I don’t think anyone from their mid-week line-up said “pick me” for the tests.
There was also the unusual phenomenon on the Chiefs’ early lineout ball where the tourists appeared to be making noises to disrupt the call. That was ordinary, and Watching his jive talkin' makes you want to pop on the Bee Gees. Silky skills given too few chances to make an impact.
FA'AULI
Prepared to combat when he got opportunity in attack or defence. Lazy running saw him penalised in 44th minute. Took the Michael Jordan award for aerial work in early stanzas but largely hindered from further opportunity. Tactical kicking had moments which saw the ball lob into eager Lion paws. Opted for attack where possible as skipper.
CHRISTIE
Busy and vocal throughout. Ref queried his chat in 21st minute, a fact any ' 9' should wear as a badge of honour.
SANDERS
Dropped a ball cold in fledgling stages of attack. Impressed when getting across the advantage line from set piece.
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