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Liosn tour manager Gerald Davies looks pleased to be back on home soil at Heathrow © Getty Images

My tour began in the company of Lions and that was also how it ended - aboard the tourists' Air Force Scrum flight back to Heathrow this morning. I don't think my seat could have been any further away from the salubrious surroundings of first and business but there was certainly a feeling of having come full circle with the class of 2009 - from their leafy training base in Surrey to baggage reclaim at Terminal 5. As with the end of any tour, be it mini rugby or the international stage, this one ended with players and coaches embracing and offering thanks in one final, emotionally charged act of what has been a rollercoaster of a tour. Those fans lucky enough to share their flight did their best to catch one more memento on their cameras and mobile phones and the Lions were just as obliging as ever. And so the curtain falls on the 2009 British & Irish Lions' tour to South Africa - a truly memorable experience. I've been lucky enough to travel the world writing about this sport for the last ten years but this was my first Lions tour. Tour veteran Brian O'Driscoll recently remarked that playing for the Lions is "like a drug" in the fact that you can't get enough and I have to say that having witnessed this latest tour at close quarters I can understand his sentiments. There remains something special about the Lions and I wouldn't mind betting that those who question their place in the modern game have not had the pleasure of following their fortunes at first hand. The spirit of the Lions is infectious and now wonder head coach Ian McGeechan urged the doubters to embrace the Lions just once. "I just wish more of those people who don't want to make time for the Lions would come out and actually experience a Lions tour," said McGeechan. But it is not as if the Lions as a brand are dying. Estimates have varied but it is safe to say at least 30,000 fans made the trip to South Africa and with that kind of commercial clout the Lions will be back bigger and even better in four years time. Let us not underestimate the role played by the Lions' fans in keeping the brand alive. The Lions' shirt is often cited as the greatest prize for British and Irish players and it is that same famous red jersey that appeals to the fans. They admire the players that go into battle wearing it but they come and go through the years - it is the shirt itself, and what it stands for - the history, the tradition - that has the masses hooked. The 2005 tour of New Zealand was a failure in many ways and although this year's quest also ended in a series defeat the latest batch of Lions managed to repair much of the damage done to their reputation on their last outing. For that, huge credit must go to McGeechan and his tour manager Gerald Davies. They promised to return the Lions to their traditional roots and they did just that - and in doing so made new friends and repaired strained relationships. I hope you have enjoyed the insight I have been able to offer and that you too have been bitten by the Lions bug. The Lions are back and I for one can't wait for Australia in 2013. Lions Tour 2009 Awards: Player of the Tour: Brian O'Driscoll O'Driscoll bounced back from the disappointment of being passed over for the captaincy with a series of stand out performances. He also showed that you don't need to be skipper to be a leader on and off the field and was also hailed as the team's most potent threat in attack and the benchmark in defence by his captain Paul O'Connell. He formed a superb centre pairing with Jamie Roberts and his physical and mental commitment to the tour was astonishing. Moment of the Tour: Ronan O'Gara's second Test cameo The Irishman was immediately blamed for blowing the Lions' series chances with a costly 12-minute performance off the bench in Pretoria while others pointed out his apparent concussion and praised his bravery for refusing to settle for the draw. Either way, O'Gara's missed tackle and then clumsy challenge on Springboks scrum-half Fourie du Preez shaped the destiny of the Test series. Rising Star: Heinrich Brussow Springboks openside Heinrich Brussow tormented the Lions in Cheetahs colours during the warm-up clashes and returned to haunt the tourists in the Test series. The form player in his position in this year's Super 14, the 22-year-old capitalized on the arrival of the British & Irish Lions to boost his profile yet further. Word has it that his phone is ringing off the hook with European sides lining up to sign him but in this kind of the SA Rugby are unlikely to allow him to go anywhere. Try of the Tour: Shane Williams, Lions v South Africa Williams grabbed two tries in the Lions' victory over their hosts in the third Test in Johannesburg but it is his second that caught the eye - thanks largely to the skill of centre Riki Flutey. The Kiwi-born star chipped over the Boks' defence before beating fullback Zane Kirchner to the ball and off-loading to Williams with a superb piece of handling. A rare moment of magic. Tackle of the Tour: Jean de Villiers, South Africa v Lions The Springboks centre denied Lions winger Ugo Monye with an outstanding tackle in the closely-contested first Test in Durban that saw him get his arm under the ball to prevent the touchdown before dislodging the ball. Quote of the Tour: "I don't think it should have been a card at all." Springboks coach Peter de Villiersprovided the tour with the majority of its memorable sound bites - most of which were confusing at best. This one however - in the wake of Schalk Burger's yellow card in the opening minute of the second Test in Pretoria - was shocking. Burger was subsequently banned for eight weeks for 'making contact with the eye area' of Lions winger Luke Fitzgerald while De Villiers was forced into an apology for his rant. ]]> http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/07/_i_just_wish_more.php http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/07/_i_just_wish_more.php Sun, 05 Jul 2009 10:31:03 +0000

That old McGeechan magic worked wonders again at Ellis Park © Getty Images

A Test victory at last for the Class of 2009. And didn't they deserve it? The team spirit within this squad knows no bounds. Ravaged by injuries and written off by many they rallied with one of the most impressive displays we have seen from them over the last few weeks. OK - this was a second string South Africa side but it contained many of the form players from this year's Super 14 with a point to ahead of the Tri-Nations. This game was also being played at Ellis Park where only one side has claimed victory against the Boks in the last 12 years - a record they are rightly proud of. And the brawl that broke out in the closing stages of the game may well have been a sign of the home side's frustration at that record being tarnished. What we saw today was the result of some McGeechan magic. The Lions veteran has once again shown his exemplary man-management skills to get this whole squad pulling together towards the same goal. They failed in their quest for a series victory but they dug deep and despite the many changes the hunger was still there. McGeechan indicated that this may well be his last Lions tour (including this year he has played on two tours and coached on five others) but don't be surprised if his name is amongst those linked with the 2013 tour to Australia. But let us not forget that the Springboks already had the series in the bag thanks to their victories in the first two Tests. In those two games they showed just as much, and perhaps more character than the Lions showed today. Sport is a results business and the hosts produced the goods when it mattered most and should be heartily congratulated for that achievement. South Africa chose to use today's game to protest at Bakkies Botha's two-week suspension for a dangerous charge in the second Test in Pretoria. They were incensed at what they see as the inconsistency of the judicial system that sees similar incidents go unpunished most weeks. They are right, and have received support on the matter from the Lions, but an occasion as today's match was not the place to air their grievances. The match gave way to another contest of sorts involving the opposing fans. The aim was to make your way from one end of the pitch to the other to score an imaginary try. The problem was that fans were not allowed on the pitch and an army of stewards were there to stop them. But I'm glad to report that some did manage to escape the clutches of their would-be tacklers who at times looked as half-hearted as the Golden Lions did a few weeks ago. The score appeared to be in the Lions' favour until the stewards got their collective game-heads on but they had to rely on some reckless challenge that may have caught the citing commissioner's eye. For the final game of the tour I had the honour of sitting next to the Daily Mail's Peter Jackson who was presiding over his last Test match before retirement. The Lions' impressive victory was a fitting tribute to his career that has spanned five decades - many of them at the frontline of the sport - and his contribution to the sport was acknowledged by head coach Ian McGeechan after the game. Enjoy retirement Peter - and thanks for keeping us both informed and entertained. ]]> http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/07/lions_left_to_rue_what_could_h.php http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/07/lions_left_to_rue_what_could_h.php Sat, 04 Jul 2009 18:37:08 +0000

Lions prop Phil Vickery can often be found at the bottom of a scrum off the field © Getty Images

Lions prop Phil Vickery is an incredibly popular player. One look into today's press conference at the soul-less Sandton Convention Centre here in Johannesburg would have told you that. The journalists flock to his side whenever he is offered up to the media machine mainly because they know he is good value. The 33-year-old, a veteran of 77 caps for England and four - soon to be five - Test appearances for the Lions, has seen most things in the game and has experienced both triumph and disaster. And in the words of Kipling he has managed to, "treat those two imposters just the same." Vickery, who led the Lions in their tour clash against Western Province, is honest, rarely ducks the issue and often raises a laugh or two. He knows the power of a good sound bite but is also experienced enough to know not to go too far. This weekend sees him lock horns with South Africa's Tendai 'The Beast' Mtawarira once again after coming out very much second best in the first Test clash in Durban. When asked how he had coped with the disappointment of their encounter we got one of the quotes of the tour. "You know you've had a **** game when you get text messages from your mum, your sister and your Mrs saying that they still love you," said Vickery. He also offered an amusing behind-the-scenes insight into the battle that was last weekend's second Test at Loftus Versfeld and the humour within the exclusive front row club. As 23rd man for the match, Vickery found himself in the treatment room doing his best to help fellow props Adam Jones (dislocated shoulder - thanks to a dangerous charge from Boks lock Bakkies Botha) and Gethin Jenkins (clash of heads with Boks winger Bryan Habana). Fearing he was neglecting Jenkins in favour of Jones, he crossed to speak to the Welshman whose "face was caved in" and was covered in blood and stitches. Struggling to speak, Jenkins joked, "Is Nugget [Martyn Williams] playing tight-head?" Vickery was also confident of a stronger showing against The Beast this weekend where he hopes to exorcise some demones and settle some scores. The weight of hooker Matthew Rees alongside him and lock Simon Shaw behind him should be a huge help this time around. Lions assistant coach Warren Gatland was also up in front of the media today and revealed that he and head coach Ian McGeechan had engaged in a positive meeting with their South African counterparts - Peter de Villiers and Gary Gold - and Saturday's referee, Stuart Dickinson, the previous night. Interestingly, Gatland had sympathy for the Springboks on the issue of Bakkies Botha's two-week suspension for his dangerous charge on Adam Jones that ended his tour. Gatland and co did not see anything wrong with that specific incident. His actions may well have been questionable but apparently no different to what is usually allowed according to the Kiwi. Some mixed feedback regarding Naas Botha's comments on Ronan O'Gara that we ran with earlier this week. Whether you agree with him or not, the former Springboks fly-half is a charismatic figure who is not short of an opinion or two. I was lucky enough to spend some time with him after an invite from my Total Rugby colleague Martin Cross. At his home on the outskirts of Pretoria he entertained us with many stories including how he would regularly play for Northern Transvaal on a Saturday afternoon before jumping on a plane to Italy where he would turn out for Rovigo the following day - he would sometimes be forced to get changed in the taxi from the airport but more often than not would play a starring role in both games. So here we are on the eve of the final game of the tour. Many predicted that we would reach this point with the Springboks already victorious but not one of those expected it to be so close. A total of eight points have separated the team in the last fortnight. Can the Lions rescue something from the series at Ellis Park? I hope so because they deserve something. The Springboks have been the better side but not by much and even they would find it hard to begrudge the visitors a consolation win. Time will tell how focused or generous the hosts are feeling. ]]> http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/07/once_more_unto_the_breach.php http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/07/once_more_unto_the_breach.php Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:27:30 +0000

Springboks coach Peter de Villiers continues to enthrall the media in Jo'burg © Getty Images

Springboks coach Peter de Villiers was the main attraction here in Jo'burg once again on Thursday and did not disappoint. He admitted he had been 'stupid' over the past few days - not for sharing his outspoken views but for reacting to some of the perceived negative reports from the British & Irish media. "What a stupid bugger I am," he told reporters. "I've learnt that if they can't win on the field then they will try to win anywhere else they can." De Villiers is also refusing to change his ways and did nothing to dispel the belief that he is obsessed with his own persona by referring to himself in the third person. "I won't change my style," he said. "If I change my style I change Peter de Villiers and I go back to God and say: 'You made a bad job.'" Fascinating, amusing and sometimes troubling - but nearly always good copy. He is very much an individual which is a notable character trait but sometimes you think he is a loose cannon. The pressure of being the first black Springboks coach and to a certain extent a political appointment must weigh heavy at times. He is blessed with an immensely talented team and his record of 11 wins in 15 internationals since taking over from Rugby World Cup winner Jake White is also impressive. But you sense that De Villiers feels he is untouchable and not even a atrocious on-field record could hasten his demise. SA Rugby chiefs are obliged to give their man time for fear of further political repercussions. His controversial comments must cause concern but at the end of the day sport is a results business and as long as his side keeps winning - and they are many people's favourites for the Tri-Nations - he will continue to have the support of his union, his team and most importantly the fans. In a related point, SA Rugby issued a statement today clarifying the judicial ruling on Schalk Burger's eight-week ban. They were keen to stress that the flanker was cleared of eye-gouging Lions winger Luke Fitzgerald in the opening minute of the second Test but found guilty of 'making contact with the eye area' of the Irishman. The statement also included an apology from Burger to his team and their fans but not to the Lions or Fitzgerald. De Villiers has predictably made several changes to his side for Saturday's final clash in Johannesburg with the series already in the bag. It is obvious his mind is now focused on the forthcoming Tri-Nations and his selection - and his desire to give all his players the chance to play against the Lions - does de-value the fixture to a certain extent. Perhaps they should have been allowed to play for their provinces then, apart from the Bulls' players, there would not be such an issue. However, it remains a formidable line-up - such is their strength in depth. The Lions, ravaged by injury, will limp into the Ellis Park clash with a new-look team. Of note is Phil Vickery's return to the front row for the first time since his mauling at the hands of South Africa's Tendai 'The Beast' Mtawarira in the first Test. As a result of McGeechan's final tour selection winger Tommy Bowe (at centre for Saturday's clash), fly-half Stephen Jones, No.8 Jamie Heaslip, scrum-half Mike Phillips and captain Paul O'Connell will be the only players to have started all three Tests. How the Lions must wish that number was higher. ]]> http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/07/de_villiers_admits_stupidity.php http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/07/de_villiers_admits_stupidity.php Thu, 02 Jul 2009 21:07:12 +0000

No laughing matter: Peter de Villiers has once again hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons © Getty Images

It is now three days since the Springboks wrapped up the series with victory in the second Test against the Lions in Pretoria but they have not been able to celebrate their success due to the ongoing row over Schalk Burger's eye-gouging of Lions winger Luke Fitzgerald. That incident continues to take the shine off their achievement - South Africa showed great character and mental strength in both of the opening two Tests to see off a brave Lions team and exact revenge for their series defeat 12 years ago. But instead of glowing in that success they find themselves fighting fires due to their outspoken coach Peter de Villiers. De Villiers sparked the controversy by insisting that the Burger incident did not warrant a yellow card and that such incidents were a part of sport - “It's sport, man. This is what it's all about,” he said. SA Rugby have since issued a statement apologising for any suggestion that, "acts of foul play are in any way condoned by South African rugby." But the same day that apology was issued, De Villiers was again defending the actions of his player and denying the incident took place. It seems no one has the power to silence De Villiers or at least get him to tone down his opinions. There is an argument that he is bringing the game into disrepute and the suggestion that eye-gouging is part of the game is simply horrifying. That one statement could do irreparable damage to a sport that is trying to boost participation levels at grassroots level and also make a bid for Olympic re-inclusion. Lions centre Brian O'Driscoll made a very telling point - "Kids or parents watching an interview like that, questioning whether they should have their kid play rugby or soccer, that's their decision made right there." SA Rugby are going to be under increasing pressure from the International Rugby Board is they are unable to silence their coach. I was sent some interesting facts on the back of Burger's latest indiscretion courtesy of my Scrum.com colleague Huw Richards. Saturday's yellow card was Burger's first on the international stage for four years and 32 matches. He also holds the record for the most yellow cards in international rugby with his latest being his sixth - coming in his 50th match. His latest yellow card saw him edge past Italy's Marco Bortolami on that particular unwanted rugby record. He collected his previous yellow card against Ireland on June 12, 2004, then on consecutive weekends against Wales and Ireland that November, against France on June 25, 2005 and Australia on July 23, 2005 - in other words in the space of 15 matches and little over a year. Meanwhile, the British & Irish Lions were granted a couple of days off by team management to get over their defeat at Loftus. Some of them went on safari in Limpopo on Monday a trip that produced perhaps the most amusing press release of the tour so far. The Lions' communications team (and their South African counterparts) have been incredibly helpful throughout the tour but their attempt to keep the media machine well fed during two days of media inactivity had us giggling. The release in question offered the following hold-the-front-page sound bites: "On Monday we went on an early game drive, jumped in the truck, grabbed a blanket and were driven round. We saw all sorts of animals, the hippos in the water, elephants, warthogs, zebras, a hell of lot of impala and deer and the backside of the elusive Lion!" - Tom Croft "The safari was amazing, to actually see the elephants and the Lions up close and then right at the end to actually get in the cage with the Lion was one of the best moments of the tour." - Ugo Monye "The safari was brilliant fun." - Ross Ford Thankfully the void was filled by Brian O'Driscoll who decided to give De Villiers both barrels for his controversial comments. ]]> http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/no_laughing_matter.php http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/no_laughing_matter.php Tue, 30 Jun 2009 15:52:14 +0000

Some Lions fans reflect on their side's dramatic defeat at Loftus Versfeld © Getty Images

And so the Lions’ dream is over for another four years. Defeat to South Africa in Pretoria will hurt all the more for the manner in which it happened. Many of the Lions will be licking their wounds this morning after a bruising clash but it will be the pain of defeat that troubles them most. The Lions’ fans were again magnificent. The estimated 25,000 in the stadium more than held their own – and a special mention for the Zulu War uniform-clad group who greeted the Springboks off the team bus with a stirring version of Men of Harlech. Psychological warfare - great stuff. The game itself was such a brutal encounter one journalist asked whether the modern game was too physical – an interesting question for the Lions to consider as they pick through the remains of their squad ahead of the final clash in Johannesburg. There were some crunching tackles – none more so than that of Lions centre Brian O’Driscoll on Springboks replacement Danie Rossouw. The two staggered away like punch-drunk heavyweights with the towering Rossouw coming over all Bambi-like before hitting the deck. The warrior that O’Driscoll is, he refused to acknowledge the pain or the fact that he had been concussed and tried to carry on – but it was not long before he had to make way. The Burger alleged gouging incident did not make for pretty viewing. It occurred under the noses of the media ranks and was greeted with widespread shock by journalists on both sides of the divide – partly because the Stormers flanker is not a dirty player. He walks a fine line like all good back row forwards but this was out of character. The citing commissioner has called him to explain his actions and it is likely he will be handed a heavy ban. As I have said elsewhere on the site, it was a shame for such a thrilling game had to include such an unsavoury incident. With the first capacity crowd of the tour and a worldwide audience of millions it was perhaps even more of a shame to see the scrums reduced to uncontested with the game not even an hour old. When such a pivotal part of the game is reduced to a farce it must send alarm bells ringing at the International Rugby Board. Law changes allowing for extra front row replacements cannot be too quick in coming. Springboks coach Peter de Villiers all but denied the alleged eye-gouging incident took place in his post-match press conference with his attitude drawing gasps and even laughter from some quarters. And he appeared to be getting himself into a corner before his skipper John Smit intervened and asked everyone to move on and leave it to the citing commissioner. Smit could perhaps see his coach hitting the headlines for all the wrong reasons again. The Lions management face a huge task to lift their players now as they bid to avoid the whitewash. It is all very well saying that the famous red jersey will be all the inspiration they will need but I fear it will need something extra. ]]> http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/the_dream_is_over.php http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/the_dream_is_over.php Sun, 28 Jun 2009 20:00:27 +0000

Soweto youngsters play football in the shadow of the Soccer City Stadium that is being built for next year's Fifa World Cup © Getty Images

At no time during my preparations for this year's British & Irish Lions adventure did I think I would be discussing the life and works of Michael Jackson with a group of Japanese football journalists whilst touring Soweto - but the unpredictability of life on tour can throw such surprises at you. That bizarre experience was the prelude to a fantastic day touring the sprawling township on the outskirts of Johannesburg - an experience I highly recommend. Our trip took in the Hector Pieterson and Apartheid Museums, the soon-to-be-completed Soccer City stadium being built for the 2010 Fifa World Cup and into the heart Orlando East - one of township's suburbs. It was an intense history lesson and you'll be able to read more about my visit soon. The previous evening I was lucky enough to catch some of Confederations Cup semi-final clash between Brazil and South Africa at Ellis Park. I've never known an atmosphere like it and Bafana Bafana did their passionate supporters proud with a brave display. Daniel Alves' late strike broke the hearts of the majority of the 50,000 crowd but did not silence the vuvuzela horns. This Saturday's second Test between the Lions and the Springboks at a capacity Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria should provide an interesting contrast and I'll be sure to let you know all about it. Following my social study at Ellis Park I can now offer the following guidelines for supporting Bafana Bafana: Vuvuzela - You either love them or hate them but if you are serious about supporting Bafana Bafana you have to have one of these plastic horns. Makarapa - Pimped-up hard hats. A homage to the country's mining roots and the more elaborate they are the better. Over-sized sunglasses - The bigger the better and preferably yellow. South African flag - Another must-have. Can also be painted onto your person. Ability to dance - Not only when you score but on the spot continuously for a full two hours. Bafana Bafana shirt - Worn back-to-front to show your player allegiance to the TV cameras. Mobile phone - To ensure you waste time getting a blurry and muffled souvenir from the game rather than just soaking up the atmosphere. Optional extra: Nelson Mandela mask - Bring your own bit of 'Madiba magic' to boost your team. ]]> http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/at_no_time_during_my.php http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/at_no_time_during_my.php Fri, 26 Jun 2009 16:40:01 +0000

Veteran lock Simon Shaw has plenty to smile about after being promoted to the Lions' Test line-up © Getty Images

How nice it is to feel the heat of the sun on your face again - as opposed to golf ball-sized hail stones. Such is my relief at surviving what seemed like the end of the world in Cape Town and safely returning to Johannesburg. The sun will also be welcomed by the Lions when they eventually return to the Highveld but with that joy will be tempered by the prospect of playing the most important game of their lives at 1400m above sea-level. Put simply, playing at altitude makes breathing harder as the thin air means there is less oxygen available. The issue has troubled most touring teams in South Africa and the Lions are no different. Lions fly-half Ronan O'Gara memorably summed up the debilitating effects of playing at altitude following the opening clash with the Royal XV in Rustenburg. "I felt like an imbecile in that first match," he said. "I certainly underestimated the effects of altitude. The mind was telling me one thing but the body wouldn't get me into the position to do it." As with every other aspect of this tour, the Lions management and medical teams have put months of preparation into this part of the tour. And reports suggest that England football coach Fabio Capello has already sought their advice ahead of next year's Fifa World Cup. The Lions' preparations were to include a training camp in Spain where conditions would be similar to those they would face here in South Africa but that was subsequently scrapped. Instead the players were encouraged to use altitude simulators - adding a sci-fi element to their pre-tour build-up at their leafy Surrey base. "The Lions will discover the difference when their chests start burning," warned Springboks skipper John Smit earlier this week but perhaps he as unaware that the Lions have continued their altitude training whilst at sea-level thanks to the high-tech equipment available to the fitness team. One such training method requires players to wear a mask connected to a machine that limits oxygen intake. The Lions have played their last five games at sea-level in Cape Town, Port Elizabeth and Durban and have chosen to prepare for the must-win second Test in Cape Town before flying up to Johannesburg on Friday - the day before the game. Experts say that ideally you need eight days preparation at altitude to combat the effects but the Lions' schedule did not allow for that. The alternative is to travel up at the last possible moment - as the Lions are doing. The science behind this approach says that the somewhat crippling effects do not then have a chance to kick in. Only time will tell if the Lions have got their preparation just right. But of course, the altitude issue is just one factor - albeit a major one. The teams for the Pretoria showdown have both been announced with South Africa opting for only one change. Schalk Burger returns to the Springboks' line-up for the unlucky Heinrich Brussow who drops to the bench. However the Lions, who must win the game to keep their feint hopes of a series victory alive, have opted for a little more surgery with five changes including a first Test cap for veteran lock Simon Shaw. South Africa have only lost three of their last ten clashes at Loftus Versfeld - all to New Zealand - and England were the last northern hemisphere side to upset the odds back in 1994. The odds are really against the Lions and the first sell-out of the tour suggests that the home fans are confident of seeing their side complete the job. ]]> http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/gasping_for_air.php http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/gasping_for_air.php Thu, 25 Jun 2009 14:12:49 +0000

Singing in the rain? Lions fans brave the cold and wet conditions at Newlands © Getty Images

If the Lions were feeling a little low on their return to Cape Town in the wake of their first Test defeat, the draw with the Emerging Springboks at Newlands and the depressing weather will have done nothing to lift their spirits. The rain, cold temperatures and gale-force winds has me longing for the sun and the balmy temperatures of Durban - and the blanket coverage of a sun-drenched SW19 on the various sports channels available here is not helping matters. Denied the chance to return to Robben Island or climb Table Mountain due to the inconsiderate weather, I accepted an invite to South Africa College Schools (SACS) to catch some junior action ahead of the Newlands clash. SACS, the oldest school in South Africa, was playing host to Kings Hospital School from Dublin and both sides did their best in what were atrocious conditions. A 5-5 draw was a fair result by all accounts but I must admit I was driven under cover long before the final whistle. It was heartening to see another bumper crowd at Newlands, bolstered by the thousands of Lions fans who remain committed to the tour. They braved the elements with the kind of enthusiasm we have come to expect from the Lions' loyal following. I guess when you have paid several thousand pounds for the chance to be here you are not going to let the small matter of the end of he world spoil your fun. But the Lions' fans were unable to inspire great things from their team. Despite the demoralising draw at the hands of the second string Boks, the Lions did their best to remain positive after the game but a citing for lock Nathan Hines will not have helped the mood in the camp. Luckily, I am escaping the gloom here in Cape Town ahead of the Lions who are due to remain here until Friday. The bad news for them is that the weather shows no signs of breaking up before the weekend which is sure to hamper their preparations for the second Test. Meanwhile, the Springboks are basking under the sun in Jo'burg where conditions will not be a million miles away from those at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria - that will stage the pivotal Test clash on Saturday. ]]> http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/_singing_in_the_rain.php http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/_singing_in_the_rain.php Wed, 24 Jun 2009 11:03:29 +0000

This is no dour Scot - Lions team doctor James Robson © Getty Images

Lions team doctor James Robson once again stole the show at the post-match media briefing on Sunday where he appeared alongside scrum coach Graham Rowntree. His medical updates, peppered with his favourite phrase 'in good fettle', are quite a draw due to the entertaining insight they offer into the foibles of the players - e.g. Lee Byrne likes his troublesome foot strapped a certain way - and his assessment of players under his care - "I'd like to stick a needle in his backside sometimes...He's a complex individual who is a bit like Austin Healey, is phenomenally talented and sometimes a bit irritating but I love him to bits." - The player in question? Byrne again. When pressed on his admiration of Healey, Robson continued, "I think Austin was one of the most talented players I have ever worked with" - Cue sigh and rolling of the eyes from Healey's ex-Leicester and England team mate Rowntree and much laughter. His latest epic briefing included the longest answer we have seen on tour. One of my colleagues from the BBC asked for some clarification on the rulings on concussions, as that recently suffered by James Hook. A full FOUR AND A HALF MINUTES of detailed explanation later he was only stopped by a round of applause! "And if you want a more detailed answer see me after," he joked. Robson's contribution was more than a fitting introduction to Rowntree's honest remarks about the Lions' showing against the Springboks the day before. He acknowledged that they had been second best and the players, in particular the forwards, would be 'very disappointed' when they reviewed the tapes themselves. Before I left Durban I squeezed in a visit to Paul Flanagan in nearby Port Shepstone. The well-travelled former hooker, who had a spell at Ballymena, now runs a rugby academy. It was an all-too-brief trip but I got a great insight into some great work he is doing - stay tuned for more details. While tour fatigue maybe setting in for some, it obviously isn't for others. I over-heard this conversation on my flight from Durban. Lions Fan #1: "Do you find you're having to pace yourself drinking-wise?" Lions Fan #2: "Well, if you call two days off the sauce in the last 25 then yes." Reports in Monday's papers backed up the assumption that the Lions' travelling support have a mighty thirst. Under the headline, "Lions fans drink pubs dry" Barbara Cole of the Cape Argus wrote: "Emergency beer supplies had to be trucked in to pubs in Durban and Umhlanga to cope with the demand from Lions fans. The report continued: "It was absolutely unbelievable. We were just not prepared for the onslaught," said a delighted Eleanor Gilles, manager of The George Tapas and Wine Bar. "The Lions drank us dry twice on Friday and I had to close the doors at midnight as we had run out after getting a re-supply at lunchtime." Good old Brits abroad. Another story I stumbled upon over the weekend centred on the subject of empty seats. There was a bumper crowd in at Kings Park for the opening Test but there were still plenty of unsold tickets. It appears that such was SA Rugby's concern about the possible embarrassment that would accompany swathes of empty seats at the game that they were out amongst the local clubs on Friday night handing out free tickets. One source told me that at their game - all the matches were switched to Friday to enable fans to watch the Test - someone was handing out tickets by the handful. The potential public relations disaster obviously triggered some desperate moves from officials but they are not the only ones under pressure. Fifa continues to press South African officials over the empty seats at Confederations Cup matches while the crime issue is looming as an even bigger problem with Brazil the latest to suffer at the hands of thieves. I was greeted by rain on my return to Cape Town and the morning gave way to a grey, damp and miserable picture from my hotel. The forecast is for more of the same which my hinder any plans for an expansive game from either side on Tuesday night. ]]> http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/in_good_fettle.php http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/in_good_fettle.php Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:33:29 +0000

The Red Army were unable to inspire their team to victory in Durban © Getty Images

The Lions’ ‘Red Army’ of supporters failed to lift their side to victory in their opening battle against South Africa but they may yet help the tourists in the war. A reported 20,000 Lions fans descended on Kings Park in Durban, some way short of the 40,000 figure touted pre-credit crunch, but they still managed to turn vast swathes of the stadium red. Such a powerful sight will have energised the Lions and also the accountants at kit producers Adidas. For some of these die-hard fans, this once in a lifetime experience had already turned sour long before the Springboks rode roughshod over the tourists’ hopes. The latest victims of crime horror story hit the local papers on the morning of the game. Brothers Michael, 57, and Peter Harriott, 58, and Simon 57, and John Murphy, 52, flew into Johannesburg on Thursday night for the British and Irish Lions tour and were followed back to their guesthouse where they were robbed at gun-point. “They ordered us out of the car and told us to lie on the floor and remove our wallets and watches,” Michael Harriott told the Saturday Star. Apparently the same night members of Egypt’s football team returned from their 1-0 victory over Italy at the Confederations Cup in Johannesburg to find that their hotel rooms had been ransacked. And to complete a fear-inducing triumvirate from the morning news, reports detailed how car jackers stole a vehicle in Johannesburg before ordering its four passengers into the boot. They then drove it the 350 miles to Durban before dumping the car but the occupants were not found for several hours more by which stage one had died. I know I have touched on it before bit it is worth returning to again. Fifa and Lions tour officials may have expressed concern about empty seats at venues but the real PR issue surrounds crime. Expect an even tougher crackdown ahead of next summer’s football World Cup. Talking of empty seats, there were still vast areas of seating unsold at Kings Park. However, the 48,000 crowd that did dig deep gave the tour a much-needed shot in the arm and a blaze of colour, thanks largely to the thousands of South African flags given away on entry, helped generate the best atmosphere we’ve seen on this tour and goose bump-inducing tension to boot. The party began several hours before for the massed ranks of Lions supporters. While I pondered breakfast, some keen fans were already knocking back beers but as you would expect with an international rugby crowd – that does not spell trouble. Such is the camaraderie within the rugby fan fraternity that passing strangers, and opposing fans, would stop each other in the street to shake hands, take photos and swap stories. “We’ve got to win this one,” one told me, echoing the thoughts of many others. Soon they were weaving their way towards the stadium in the bright sunshine perhaps lured by the intoxicating aroma of a thousand or so braais sparked up by the home fans. This massive cook-out is a traditional part of the match day experience and you can see why. Friendly faces who from experience I can tell you will gladly shout you a beer or some food if you want to chat through the game. Yet another fine example of the fantastic hospitality you can find in this country. The Lions fans were in good voice ahead of the game, soaking up the array of music and dance served up as pre-match entertainment, while the occasional burst of bagpipes reminded us al that there is some Scottish interest on this tour! “This is the moment we've been waiting for since 1997," boomed our MC as the sides entered the field of battle and the crowd noise hit a whole new level. And the Springboks did their best to maintain that intensity with an awesome example of controlled rugby. But back came the Lions and their fans responded by rallying around their side, urging them to complete a remarkable turnaround. Fan-favourite Brian O’Driscoll required treatment at one point in the second half and when he finally rose to his feet the roar was deafening. The fans are all too aware of his importance to their side’s fortunes – and no other player would generate that kind of relief/reaction. Sadly for the Lions’ faithful it was not to be and their side went down to a narrow loss in what was seen by many as a must-win game. But the fans I spoke to were not despondent – they had seen enough “fight” and “hunger” from their team to remain hopeful of a turnaround in fortunes in Pretoria next weekend. As the sun set on what was a pulsating clash and fitting occasion, the Lions’ fans joined their South African counterparts around the braais outside the ground to pick through the game over one more beer. A dream day but unfortunately the same cannot be said for the result. Loftus Versfeld promises to be an even more thrilling feast for the eyes and ears next week. I for one cannot wait. ]]> http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/25000_lions_fans.php http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/25000_lions_fans.php Sat, 20 Jun 2009 17:27:41 +0000

A Springbok fan adds a little colour to proceedings at Kings Park © Getty Images

Game day has finally arrived - the stage is set for the eagerly-awaited 1st Test between the British & Irish Lions and South Africa. At last all the talking and speculation stops. Durban is awash with Lions fans who have descended in their thousands and turned the streets of the city red. They should once again provide a visual feast at the stadium but amazingly reports claim there are still tickets available for the game. There is not a cloud in the sky and the temperature is sure to play a part in proceedings later today. Returning to the Kings Park press box reminds me I should have started that diet by now. The cosy confines of the media tribune mean we are packed in like sardines and literally sat on top of some of my radio colleagues. On my last visit here I discovered that you can listen to the game in a variety of languages including English, Afrikaan and Xhosa - with the constant stream of the latter, even when the ball is out of play, sounding more like horse racing commentary. ]]> http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/language_barrier.php http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/language_barrier.php Sat, 20 Jun 2009 12:00:03 +0000

Springboks lock Bakkies Botha looks for some divine intervention ahead of the Test showdown with the Lions © Getty Images

One day to go. This time tomorrow the Lions and the Springboks will be trying to knock each other into 2nd Test week a couple of days ahead of schedule. The much-hoped for escalation in hostilities has not materialised here in Durban and the verbal exchanges have been nothing but polite. The British & Irish media have been hitting anyone they can get with the ‘Are the Springboks under-cooked?’ stick in the last few days without much joy – the nearest we got was a couple of luke-warm sound bites from South Africa assistant Gary Gold. “It is interesting that this underdone tag is being thrown around about us when 12 months ago Wales came here and told us how tired they were after having a very long season back home,” he said. “I would much rather be in the position where we are now than if we had played three or four games and picked up three or four key injuries.” Something in that last quote tells me he would have liked to seen his side tested before such a massive clash as this Saturday’s. The presenting of the jerseys is long-held tradition and this series is no different. “Well-known South African businessman Dr Johann Rupert” did the honour for the Springboks this week. For those not in the know, billionaire Rupert is the owner of the Switzerland-based luxury goods company Richemont, which owns the Cartier, Mont Blanc and Dunhill names among others. He may be more familiar to you as the man behind a recently reported £10m investment in Premiership side SAracens. “Rugby is a team sport and it is important that all 14 of you play as a team so that you can give ball to Bryan,” the reclusive Rupert told the players. Lions head coach Ian McGeechan insisted there were no special jersey presentation plans for his side when questioned yesterday but that struck me as believable as some of the official crowd figures we have been fed out here. Do not be surprised if the great Willie John McBride makes an appearance as part of the ‘bonus extras’ on the tour DVD. SA Rugby are also busy mobilising their fans to ensure they are not aesthetically blown away by a wash of red on Saturday. The Lions’ supporters memorably painted Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney red in 2001 and the Australian Rugby Union moved quickly to urge their fans to ‘go gold’ in response. On this occasion South African officials have gone for a pre-emptive strike. “We want to turn the Absa Stadium Durban (Kings Park to traditionalists) into a sea of green,” declared acting SA Rugby Managing Director Andy Marinos. “Wear jerseys, scarves, caps, t-shirts and wave flags – so long as it’s green and show your support for the Boks.” They may succeed in claiming some colour gains on Saturday but Durban the city has already turned red thanks to the thousands of fans descending on sun-drenched resort. Fact of the day: “Whoever wins the first Test only needs to win 50% of the next two games, but whoever loses it needs to win 100% of the next two games.” – Gary Gold, South Africa assistant coach ]]> http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/_springboks_lock_bakkies_botha.php http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/_springboks_lock_bakkies_botha.php Fri, 19 Jun 2009 13:06:31 +0000

Lions centre Riki Flutey makes the most of the good surf in Durban © Getty Images

It required only a few steps from the aircraft on my arrival back in Durban to realise that the mercury was on the rise and you don't need to be an expert of the likes of Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit or Anders Celsius to know that things are going to get a lot hotter over the next few days. The war of words off the field is set to intensify dramatically ahead of the eagerly-awaited first Test between the Springboks and the British & Irish Lions at Kings Park on Saturday. The hosts set out their stall earlier this week and as expected there were few surprises. Ruan Pienaar retains the No.10 shirt despite an injury-blighted season with coach Peter de Villiers confident he can rediscover his world-class form in the heat of a Test battle. Elsewhere, Francois Steyn appears to have put his reported differences with Springboks management behind him as he fills the void at fullback. As many of you will recall the 22-year-old possesses a cannon for a boot and is adept at long-range drop goals - a scoring ploy we have seen surprisingly little of so far on tour. The in-form Bulls fly-half Morne Steyn is the only uncapped player in the squad and he must make do with a place on the bench. The Lions selection meeting will take place today with the Class of 2009 set to find out if they have made the grade when it comes to the Test side. The rest of the world will then find out on Thursday who head coach Ian McGeechan believes has what it takes to topple the world champions. No matter who is selected, the smiles and open door policy we have seen from the Lions so far on tour, mixing with fans etc, is set to give way to a big-match focus. One point of concern for the Lions is that they have failed to find their best form in their afternoon clashes. The traditionally stronger Saturday side laboured past the Royal XV, edged out the Cheetahs and Western Province before out muscling the Southern Kings but perhaps Ian McGeechan's rotation policy could be held partly responsible for the indifferent performances. Only under the lights against the woeful Golden Lions and the Sharks did the tourists manage to click through the gears. On Saturday the Lions return to the scene of one of their more impressive showings in that victory over the Sharks where they are assured of a hotter reception than their last visit - although tickets remain available for the clash. ]]> http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/things_hotting_up_in_sa.php http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/things_hotting_up_in_sa.php Wed, 17 Jun 2009 10:26:46 +0000 picture of Mbuyisa Makhubo carrying the fallen boy with his hysterical sister running alongside hit front pages around the world. The rioting escalated, spreading like wildfire across the country over the following days and as a result the death toll quickly rose with historical records detailing a total of 575 fatalities, thought to be mainly teenagers, while another 4,000 were injured. As a direct result of the tragic events, black schools were given the freedom to choose their main language and soon after further restrictions were lifted including those on movement in the cities. Global sanctions also intensified in the wake of the Soweto Uprising which would in turn play their part in South Africa shaking off the shackles of Apartheid. One of the darkest days in South Africa's history set the country on a new path but will always remain part of its fabric. South africa.info describes June 16 as, "a day violently etched on the South African collective conscience....a day that changed the country's history." Such is the significance of the occasion that special dispensation was required from the country's sports minister, the reverend Makhenkesi Stofile, for the game to go ahead on a day when no sport is normally played. "The most remarkable aspect of this momentous occasion is that here we are, on June 16, 2009, hosting the British & Irish Lions in a country free of prejudice of any kind and with historical foes seated side by side," wrote Eastern Province Rugby Union President and anti-Apartheid campaigner Cheeky Watson in his programme notes. How many of the thousands of Lions fans present in the stadium were aware of the significance of the day is probably limited but hopefully this may go some way to further the education of us all. ]]> http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/fitting_celebration_for_youth.php http://blogs.scrum.com/lionstourdiary/archives/2009/06/fitting_celebration_for_youth.php Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:29:51 +0000