Coach is expecting a Lions backlash

SUPER Rugby’s unbeaten leaders Crusaders are expecting a “torrid night” against the Lions in Christchurch tomorrow.

Coach Scott Robertson has rejected as mere “hype” suggestions the Lions’ defeat to the Blues sets them up for a miserable run in New Zealand.

Robertson has prepped his squad for a backlash from the tourists following Wednesday’s 22-16 loss to the Blues.

The Blues are New Zealand’s bottom Super Rugby side this term, but Robertson scotched the idea the Auckland setback would leave the Lions struggling for their remaining eight matches, which include three Tests with back-to-back World Cup holders New Zealand.

Asked if the best of British and Irish rugby will be hardpushed to return to winning ways having fallen to the Blues, Robertson replied: “It might just build a bit more resolve in the Lions team.

“You don’t often cheer the Blues on from down here! But it was one of those nights when you think, ‘Come on boys’.

“They’ve had a tough season, and they’ve probably lost the majority of those tight games this year.

“Blues coach Tana Umaga is a good man and a good mate, and I’m pleased for him to get that result.

“But we think the Lions will get better, I’m sure they will, they are quality players and there’s no reason why they shouldn’t.

“They’re better than what they showed and how they played against the Blues.

“They’ve got to do what they’ve got to do and they’ll be shutting out everything to get some belief back, or build their belief, and get some respect.

“So for us it’s going to be a torrid night. And it should be nothing less anyway.”

The Crusaders have named their strongest-available XV to face the Lions with Robertson insistent there wouldn’t be any complacency from his charges with the Lions having been ridiculed by some in New Zealand.

“You can get yourself into trouble if you start disrespecting the opposition,” said the former All Blacks centre.

Stellar All Blacks lock Sam Whitelock will captain the Crusaders, with 61-cap New Zealand flyer Israel Dagg lining up at full-back.