LIONS TOUR DIARY

Quote of the day: ‘‘They fronted up in defence, closed up that tight space and we didn’t react well. There were so many opportunities that we didn’t see, and that is disappointing. There was a lot more space than we thought.’’ All Blacks halfback Aaron Smith after reviewing the Wellington test. View from the north: ‘‘When this tour is done, the negotiations for the future will begin. New Zealand Rugby will, by then, be counting their money. In 2004, when England toured, NZR’s revenue from fixtures and tours was NZ$9.24 million (about pounds 5.2 million); the next year, the Lions tour year, it was NZ$33.904 million. A one-year hike of 366 per cent is something that they will do anything to protect.’’ Owen Slot of The Times on why NZR wants further Lions series. Bet of the day: We haven’t had a draw yet, and it’s paying $26. The final game of the 1971 series won by the Lions was drawn, 14-14 at Eden Park. Watch out for: The Lions to arrive in Auckland this afternoon all refreshed after not having a midweek game to bash them around, plus three days in beautiful Queenstown. Refreshed, or too relaxed? Man of the moment: Thanks to Sonny Bill Williams shouldering a ban, All Blacks midfielder Malakai Fekitoa is back in black. Can he redeem himself, does he need to and will he get the chance?