Lions suffer second tour defeat in narrow loss to Highlanders

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Visiting captain Sam Warburton is halted in his tracks. Image credit: British&Irish Lions

By Simon Hunter

Any hopes the British and Irish Lions had of carrying forward momentum from their victory over the Crusaders on Saturday have been dashed by New Zealand Super Rugby side the Highlanders.

Warren Gatland's men went into the game, hoping to build momentum ahead of their showdown with the Maori All Blacks on Saturday- the unofficial 4th test.

A number of players took the field hoping to state their claims for a starting spot in the lineup, to take on the All Blacks come the first test at Eden Park on June 24th.

Jonathan Joseph opened the try account for the visitors, close to the interval, to go in 10-10 at half time.

 

An interception by Tommy Seymour after the break helped Warren Gatland's men into a five point lead.

Captain Sam Warburton, recovering from an ankle injury, then piled over the line to stretch the advantage even further.

Their opponents however, buoyed by the noise of the home fans at the Forsyth Barr Stadium, were never far away and a Liam Coltman try helped them back to within two points of the Lions.

Cue Marty Banks, with fewer than 5 minutes left on the clock, to slot over a penalty which would seal the deal and ensure a 23-22 victory for the Otago men.

 

 

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