Lions Left Frustrated After First Tour Defeat
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The British & Irish Lions suffered their first defeat of the 2017 Tour to the Blues in Auckland on Wednesday morning.
The Lions penalty count was a massive cause for concern for the coaching staff, 18 missed tackles also highlighted the underlying inefficiencies in defence.
CJ Stander responded to the marker laid down by his main rival for the No. 8 shirt, Talupe Faletau, with a powerful display capped off by a debut try.
Maro Itoje was outstanding, leading from the front and didn't show any signs of inexperience.
Rhys Webb performed with credit on his first start and is certain to run Conor Murray close for the starting scrum-half role in the first test. The Ospreys scrum-half made 68 passes, 5 tackles and chipped in with 5 carries, in an energetic performance.
With Sean O' Brien and George North waiting in the wings for their first taste of Lions rugby in New Zealand, the daunting task of the Crusaders in Christchurch on Saturday awaits the tourists.
Scott Robertson's men lie on top of the New Zealand conference with 14 wins, after an unbeaten start to their 2017 Super Rugby season.
