Lions restore lost pride

A SERIES lost 2-1 is a hell of alot better than a 3-0 white-wash.

At least from this vantage point it certainly feels that way. In keeping with the way the South African public supported this tour it was rather ironic that John Smit raised the Unity Cup, the symbol of the series win, in a stadium left deserted by the Springbok support. They were disgusted by their comprehensive, record equalling 28-9 defeat, while 20,000 Lions fans stood in unison to acknowledge the efforts of a very honest group of players.

With South Africa making 10 changes to the side that triumphed in Pretoria last weekend, had the Lions lost this one it could have done irreparable damage. Instead it was a fitting end for a squad that has given everything throughout this tour and despite the absence of four key players lost in battle in the second test – Brian O’Driscoll, Jamie Roberts, Gethin Jenkins and Adam Jones – the Lions summoned sufficient reserves of energy and commitment to punish an arrogant Springbok side.