Sleeping Lions get caught out
for that try I probably fell asleep a little bit.” More than 20,000 Lions fans descended on Eden Park in the hope of seeing the tourists repeat their historic 1971 series win over the Kiwis.
What they witnessed was a masterclass from the back-to-back world champions – and a Lions performance that veered from dream try to nightmare finish.
Daly added: “We gave away too many penalties and turnovers, whereas they had three chances and took them. They were very clinical in what they did, we lacked a bit of discipline.”
The manner of victory was particularly sweet for New Zealand after hearing the Lions talk up their forward power.
Quality
Coach Steve Hansen said: “I always find it amusing when people tell us they are going to beat us up in the tight five.
“You don’t become the No.1 side in the world without having a quality tight five. We can play down and dirty rugby too if we have to.”
The Lions, who at least finished on a positive note with Rhys Webb’s late try, insist the series is still alive and kicking.
“We 100 per cent believe we can turn it around,” said Daly. “We were not that far away. We know we have to win next week and we are looking forward to it.”
Hansen vowed to take nothing for granted, saying: “The job isn’t done. It’s a three-match series.
“Winning one gives us an advantage. But so many times in sport, the winning team gets knocked over the next week. The Lions are a good team and if we don’t prepare properly we’ll come second.”