Right from the off the Lions looked up for it, Joe Marler’s late hit on opposite number Nepo Laulala earned him ten minutes in the cooler but it laid down a marker, this team was not here to be bullied, would take an stand and had an edge.

This team were a unit, they had each others backs. Further evidence of this was when during Marler’s absence Jared Payne slotted in to add his weight to this scrum penalty.

Video Credit: Sky Sports.

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Jack Nowell made a decisive impact in the 25th minute to make best use of Dan Biggar’s snappy little stepping break to pick up and dive over. His second try in the 59th minute was an absolute belter. Flanker Justin Tipuric began the move when he snaffled an over-thrown lineout in his own 22 and fired the ball quickly to the left where it was taken on vigorously, Daly injecting real gas.

His infield pass was well-timed, Jared Payne and Robbie Henshaw linking well. There was still work to be done, and it was done with lock, Iain Henderson, sending a long ball to Nowell who stepped and weaved his way to the try-line.

The form of Dan Biggar was also welcome as the Welsh out half had a good all-round game despite avoiding what looked a certain yellow card for a swinging arm on no.8, Tom Sanders. French referee Garces instead awarding a penalty because the Chiefs player ducked.

Courtney Lawes illustrated the strength-in-depth the Lions have at lock, the Northampton player nicking the first Chiefs lineout, tap-tackling the dangerous wing, Toni Pulu. Lawes was everywhere and looks nailed on for some involvement in the Test series. His removal for a HIA will though be of some concern.

Before we get carried away, it should be noted that the Chiefs were missing five former All Blacks from their panel. Trailing 13-6 after the interval the home side looked to make an explosive start to the second half but the Lions defused any such notions.

In the 54th minute the Lions opted for a line out maul and their power and technique saw referee Jerome Garces having no hesitation in awarding  a penalty try.

The floodgates had been opened, Nowell touching down for his wonder effort seven minutes later before Jared Payne rounded off a mesmerising run by full-back, Liam Williams.

At the final whistle, there was a significant huddle of the midweek team. They had done their bit. Now it is up to the Test team. Roll on the team announcement and roll on Saturday.