FARRELL IS BACK IN THE SWING OF THINGS FOR LIONS

Pumped-up Owen leads from the front

- From Adam Hathaway in Melbourne

OWEN FARRELL played Captain Marvel as the Lions got past a thrown-together side — then declared he is match ready if called on for Test duty.

Farrell, 33, had not gone the full 80 minutes since May and had an interrupted season at Racing 92 before that but went the distance here.

The former England captain led the team on his 21st Lions appearance across four tours — and put in a decent bid to be included in the matchday 23 for the second game against Australia on Saturday.

Farrell had a hand in three tries, typically became involved in a fracas defending teammate Darcy Graham, punched his weight in midfield and linked up well with Garry Ringrose.