The British and Irish Lions have performed their best on the tour so far, winning 48-0 on the invitation side of Australia and New Zealand.
The Aunz side looked apart, but boasts a number of Test match-level players, and Lions coach Andy Farrell will be pleased with his team’s efforts.
Here are three things I learned from the match in Adelaide:
– As It Did: Lions Slash Aunts Invitational
– Lions 48-0 Aunz in the UK and Ireland: Tourists meet statement
Henry Pollock needs to be in the test squad
Whether he starts or not is another thing, but Henry Pollock is worthy of Andy Farrell’s Test Team location and will be a valuable asset to the Wallabies.
From his English debut with the Six Nations to his two attempts against Wales – being named after the Lions Tour, Pollock had a sensational year. He brings youthful talk to the side from the pitch, but importantly, he’s really only a handful of people for the opposition, with 11 carries at 24 meters and making 15 tackles in Adelaide.
He played 80 minutes against Aunz and pushed correctly to the end. We asked the first Lions to test his efforts. With only a few minutes left, he was hyped and showing his willingness to win and dominate his teammates.
He plays without fear and will be a real challenge the Australian defender will handle.
The Lions’ best performance is just in time
A week after the first test, Andy Farrell wanted to see a cleaner, more refined performance in Adelaide. Many of those who played on Saturday will miss out next week in Brisbane, but their efforts will raise the standard for the entire group.
Also, when he thought he might be getting closer to knowing the best aspects of himself, it could have also given Farrell more headaches in terms of choice.
The availability of Blair Kinghorn is unknown due to the injury, but Hugo Keenan was solid at fullback. Mac Hansen also blinded his wings, putting pressure on Tommy Freeman. Ben Earle was awarded Man of the Match with 14 carries and 11 tackles, but we hope Jack Conan starts in 8th place.
Anyway, Farrell is talking about driving standards and competition for the location, and is certainly pleased after Saturday’s efforts.
Owen Farrell has so much to offer
Owen Farrell is the four-tour lion who officially appeared at the inside center in the second half.
He certainly didn’t get out of the pace despite calling out late behind the injured season. Whether he was chosen for the test or not is another matter, but his inclusion in the team offers two benefits. First, he has invaluable experience and offers incredible leadership. He came to Adelaide, he barked orders and organized teams.
Secondly, he has the flexibility to play 10 or 12, and you retreat him to enter the slot in the game at any stage of those positions. He is a great asset to the lion.