Coming into the third match of the tour, the Lions were standing with a win and a loss from their first two gamed. Facing them was the daunting challenge of the undefeated Crusaders, currently the best team in Super Rugby.
After a disappointing loss to the Blues, the lowest ranked side in Super Rugby, many felt the Lions would struggle again but they showed no signs of this early on.
A mistake from the kickoff by the Crusaders almost, and probably should have, resulted in a try for the Lions. An early Owen Farrell penalty settled nerves and he added another to make it 0-6. Richie Mo’unga got the Crusaders on the board with a penalty of his own but another Farrell penalty made it 3-9 at halftime.
The only points in the second half came from the boot of Farrell again and the game finished with a Lions’ victory by 3-12. However, it should have been more. CJ Stander dropped the ball just metres from the line and superb scrambling defence from the Crusaders kept the Lions out multiple times.
A good defensive performance from the Lions but still work to do in taking opportunities. With all that considered, let’s look at how the players rated:
1. Mako Vunipola - 6
Solid performance which added fuel to the fire for the battle for a start on June 24th.
2. Jamie George - 7
Near impeccable lineout. Both he and Owens appear to be far ahead of Best in that department.
3. Tadhg Furlong - 6
A strong start to the scrum but looked wobbly later on.
4. Alun Wyn Jones - 7
The third captain on tour and his performance was befitting of a captain.
5. George Kruis - 6
One of the many quiet performers but solid when required.
6. Peter O'Mahony - 7
Good at the line out and strong at the breakdown.
7. Sean O'Brien - 6
Quiet but impactful when he was needed.
8. Taulupe Faletau - 7
Another decent showing with more strong carrying.
9. Conor Murray - 9
Best player on the pitch. Good passing and provided more options than either Laidlaw or Webb had previously.
10. Owen Farrell - 8
Great game control and kicking. Big decision for Gatland between him and Sexton.
11. Liam Williams - 6
More successful than his last outing and began to show off his credentials.
12. Ben Te'o - 7
Another strong showing. He’s looking more and more like a test player.
13. Jonathan Davies - 5
Never returned from an HIA and made little impact.
14. George North - 6
Seemed quiet and rarely touched the ball, although he won four turnovers
15. Stuart Hogg - 5
Forced off prematurely by an unfortunate elbow from Conor Murray.
Subs
The second half subs made little impact but in the first half, Jonathan’s Davies replacement, Johnny Sexton had a good showing. Anthony Watson also look like a good alternative at fullback after replacing Hogg.