The Lions geared up for the first test against the All Blacks with a comprehensive win against Warren Gatland’s old boys the Chiefs, 34-6 in front of a sell out crowd at the FMG stadium in Waikato.
This was a game where certain players will have been trying to force their way into Gatland’s plans for the first test. The opening half definitely lived up to that as various players got themselves involved with all facets of the game, with the Lions going at the break 13-6 in front. Notable examples being Elliot Daly and CJ Stander. Unfortunately Dan Biggar is in the unenviable position of competing with Jonny Sexton and Owen Farrell for the 10 jersey and is likely to miss out on a test berth. This wasn’t obvious as he controlled the game brilliantly in attack and defence, along with his eight points off the tee. Jack Nowell had an influential half looking for work on either wing and was rewarded with his first try of the game, courtesy of a clever pass from Liam Williams after drawing the man.
The second half started slowly for both sides but opened up following a penalty try awarded after Mitchell Brown infringed at a Lions driving maul. Nowell continued his fine game to go over for his second after a superb team move which started in their own 22. The Lions showed a clinical edge and what a time to show it in the lead up to the first test in the series.
Jared Payne scored after combining with Williams to increase the lead further. There was a spirited end to the game for the Chiefs but was to no avail as the score remained at 34-6. Another flawless kicking display from the designated Lions kicker for the evening as Biggar ended the game five from five, with 12 points off the tee.
It was yet another terrific performance from the Lions in defence as they kept the opposition to nil in the second half. The forwards were tremendous throughout as James Haskell, Courtney Lawes and Stander made frequent breaks in the loosened all three were high up in the metres made and tackle counts for the game. However, the number of tackles missed and referees’ interpretations of specific laws will be Andy Farrell’s focus leading into the game against the kiwis.
Some performances from today will give Gatland plenty to think about as he prepares to name his squad to send into battle at Eden Park on Saturday.
