Game four of the Lions’ tour is in the books and there is still plenty of work to do if they are to reach their full potential.
fter a strong defensive performance against the Crusaders, the Lions had to get their attack going in order to avoid a second defeat on tour against the electric Highlanders.
The first half was competitive and entertaining, with Waisake Naholo crossing to give the Highlanders the lead before Jonathan Joseph cancelled that out with a superb solo finish of his own. An even half ,which ended 10-10, left the Lions with a lot to do to win the game.
The second half couldn’t have started much better with an early Tommy Seymour try, which was followed up by a try from Sam Warburton. Liam Coltman replied for the Highlanders and with eight minutes to go, Marty Banks slotted a penalty to give the lead back to the Highlanders.
That would be the final points of the game, with the score finishing 23-22 as the Lions were handed their second loss on tour.
Another disappointing result but an improved performance.
With that said, let’s look at how to Lions’ rated:
1. Joe Marler - 6
Part of solid scrum but relatively quiet throughout.
2. Rory Best - 6
An improved performance in his second start, perhaps putting himself back in the Test selection debate.
3. Kyle Sinckler = 7
Made a superb break and put in another very good performance.
4. Courtney Lawes - 6
Replaced after an unfortunate collision with Naholo, but his carrying and defensive work was top quality up to that point.
5. Iain Henderson - 6
Some good carries but on a whole, he made very little impact.
6. James Haskell - 6
A strong defensive performance against his former side and he will challenge for a Test place at 6.
7. Sam Warburton - 7
A decent performance topped off with a good finish to cross for his first try on the tour.
8. CJ Stander - 5
Uncharacteristically poor carrying in the first half. Picked up slightly in the second but needs to show more if he wants a test place
9. Rhys Webb - 8
Needed a big performance after Conor Murray’s game on Saturday and he delivered.
10. Dan Biggar - 8
Bigger, like Webb needed a big performance and he put one in. He controlled the game and kicked very well.
11. Tommy Seymour - 7
Read Sopoaga’s kick very well in order to get his try and had a solid game all round.
12. Robbie Henshaw - 6
Powerful carrying but there is a feeling that he has a lot more to offer
13. Jonathan Joseph - 7
Looked dangerous in the backline and his try was very well worked.
14. Jack Nowell - 5
Another average peformance. He needs to do much more if he wants to join the fight for a Test place.
15. Jared Payne - 5
With a Hogg’s tour over, Payne has a chance the start at 15 in the first Test. However, he did himself no favours with this performance.
Subs
The smallest impact made by the subs on the whole tour. Farrell standing out for missing a key penalty.