Lions hopefuls fluff their lines against spirited hosts

First Nations & Pasifika XV 19 British & Irish Lions 24

- By HARRY LATHAM-COYLE AT MARVEL STADIUM

One cannot really say that this was a night upon which Andy Farrell was given a heap of fresh selection headaches. The likelihood always was that the British & Irish Lions boss would keep continuity between first and second Tests but given a midweek opportunity to impress, a few of those on the fringes failed to really force his hand. This was a scratchy, scrappy and surprisingly spirited affair in which the Lions were given plenty to think about by a First Nations & Pasifika XV formed at short notice but carrying the pride of the many communities they were assembled to represent.

The Lions remain unbeaten since arriving in Australia, but if this was a final audition for most of those selected, it would be fair to say they fluffed their lines. Perhaps that was to be expected given the curious look to the tourists' matchday: the rat-a-tat-tat of injury and training call-ups over the last fortnight giving them even more of a makeshift look than usual.

Credit must go to the scratch host side scrambled together, who ensured that this was no mismatched contest like the AUNZ Invitational game in Adelaide. The first half here was hectic and highly physical, while the locals stayed the course to set up a thrilling finish. For those in attendance, including plenty of fans in Lions red, it was rather tasty fare.