Lions ‘ready to go’

GRAHAM Rowntree says the British and Irish Lions are “ready to go” as preparations intensify for Saturday’s first Test against New Zealand at Eden Park.

The Lions have returned to Auckland from Hamilton, where they recorded their biggest win of the tour so far, beating the Chiefs 34-6, and Rowntree knows the Lions are ready.

“There is a big game around the corner,” said Lions assistant coach Rowntree.

“Picking the squad every week has been tough, and I think it is going to be even tougher now. A few guys put their hands up (against the Chiefs), and that won’t be ignored.

“It was always going to be a big debate because of the quality of the squad, but quite a few put their hands up.” above ninth-placed Dragons.

“We still have a significant way to go in ensuring that we finish in the top eight,” said Stone.

“Everyone still has five games left and that can be an awful long time in rugby league.

“Any of the games among these can prove a tough contest and we are well aware that everyone in the competition can win matches.

“After our recent climb we know as well as anyone that you can expect where you are on the ladder to change.

“Our situation is okay right now, but that can change quickly and we can only focus on what we can do.”

At the moment the Giants are building momentum after wins at home to Warrington, away at Catalans and then a 24-16 success at the John Smith’s Stadium over St Helens.

They face a Wigan side who were buoyed by a thrilling 27-26 Challenge Cup quarter-final win at Warrington Wolves and the return to action of Sam Tomkins, but Stone is hoping his side can maintain their current form.

“People are happy with the way we have been working, the boys are coming to training ready to work and we have to make sure that they carry on enjoying their rugby,” said Stone.

“If they keep on enjoying their rugby and hopefully keep playing to the standards we have seen over the last couple of weeks, then we will have a very good chance in the games that are left in the regular season.

“It has taken a little time with the boys getting to know each other and, over the season, we have had to make some changes in key positions.

“That has particularly been the case in the half backs, so it has taken some time for some of the combinations to settle.

“But working together we seem to be finding the combinations that work now, but equally there has also been some great