Coach Warren Gatland wants his British and Irish Lions team to start better in Saturday’s second Test against South Africa, as he expects a desperate reaction from the home team after the tourists won last weekend’s first Test.
The Lions fought back from 12-3 down at half-time to win 22-17 in an attritional contest.
Gatland wants to hit the ground running this week, saying: “We gave away a number of penalties in that first half, but in the second half we were much more disciplined. We were pleased with our control of the game.
“We probably, at times, put ourselves under a bit of pressure by shifting the ball on occasions, getting caught behind the gain line and allowing them to get some breakdown turnovers.
“We’ve just got to be really smart in terms of game management, but I thought we were outstanding in that second half.”
The Lions will make sure of success in the three-test series if they emerge victorious on Saturday, while South Africa will be looking to level matters.
MARK GLEESON | [email protected]