Murphy retains belief that Tiger will become Lion for second test

GEORDAN MURPHY will believe he has a part to play in the Lions squad for the second test this weekend right up until head coach Clive Woodward names his 22 in Wellington tomorrow.

Murphy, who cemented his place in the Leicester Tigers set-up yesterday by signing a new three-year contract, was set to stake his claim for a test spot against the All Blacks on Saturday with a starting role at full-back against the Manawatu province in Palmerston North.

After good performances on the tour to date, the 27-year-old was considered unlucky to lose out on a place in the first test 22 as Jason Robinson was given the nod at full-back in Christchurch last Saturday. Robinson found himself demoted to the midweek side this morning, playing alongside Murphy the man who could take his place.