Pride at stake for Lions
Is there any point in the third and final Test of the Lions series? With South Africa boasting an unassailable 2-0 lead, perhaps the tourists should pack their bags and head home.
But there is still plenty to play for - most notably pride. The Lions hope to avoid a first series whitewash against the Springboks in their 118-year history, and Ian McGeechan's changed line-up suggests he is throwing everything at the world champions.
Bulk has been added to the pack in the shape of props Andrew Sheridan and Phil Vickery, while Joe Worsley's muscle is required - most notably in the tackle and breakdown areas - to quell South Africa's attacking threat. Martyn Williams, who should have started the previous two Tests ahead of David Wallace, is also picked.
The Lions must win to keep alive the aspirations of future tours. With South Africa barely recognisable from the first two matches after ten changes, they should do just that.
Can the Lions win the final Test and has McGeechan picked the right side? Or will it all end up in a whitewash? Post your comments below...
15-3 at half-time. Lions r cruising.
Posted by: Matty P | 04 July 2009 at 15:12
Stop all the nattering lads. The game's about to start. Nothing we can say can make a difference. Although I hope we wipe the smug look off the Boks' faces.
Posted by: Ruairi | 04 July 2009 at 13:19
The Lions will definitely win the final match of what's been a brill series. They'll be much more up for it than South Africa who've not really got a whole lot to play for anymore. So no whitewash in my view.
I'm a little worried about Vickery in the scrums but Matthew Rees is a better hooker than Lee Mears so that should make the raging bull's life a little easier.
Posted by: Terry Edwards | 04 July 2009 at 13:12
This has got all the makings of a dreadful British summer for sport. First, Murray flatters to deceive at Wimbledon and the Lions are on the verge of their worst result against South Africa ever. Those aren't great stats. It makes me worried for the Ashes now. I fear there's a British sporting curse on this summer!
Posted by: TG | 04 July 2009 at 10:44
Go on Vicks, stick it to the Beast!!!!!
Posted by: Luke | 04 July 2009 at 09:29
the lack of comments compared to previous tests perhaps suggests that no one really cares about this match. that's a shame in my view but unavoidable. the springboks have put out a second team virtually and if they don't care as hosts or don't seem to at least how are the rest of us going to. with no murray to cheer on at wimbledon i'll still give it a watch.
Posted by: simon b | 04 July 2009 at 08:10
Of course this Test is important. Say it means nothing to all the fans who have paid up to watch the match and likewise to the players whose livelihoods are at stake. The Lions need a big win and I reckon the boys will do it.
Posted by: Martyn | 03 July 2009 at 16:41