Show what you’re made of, Edwards urges Lions
BRITISH and Irish Lions coach Shaun Edwards has urged the tourists to make a statement of intent in tonight’s clash with Super 14 side the Golden Lions.
Edwards is demanding an improvement on Saturday’s lukewarm win against a Royal XV when the Lions take the field for their second tour match in South Africa.
“We can’t go into this game with any excuses. We need to put a marker down and play for the full 80 minutes,” said Edwards.
“I thought in the last 20 minutes on Saturday we played very well and showed a lot of spirit but we need to do that for 80 minutes. To have any chance against the Springboks, you can’t have any lapses.”
Defensive errors marred the tour opener, and Edwards admits to being fired by subsequent barbs from locals who have enquired as to his role.
“I said I am the defence coach,” he explained. “And a few of them wished me good luck, adding that I might need it – which does add a little bit more motivation.”
Wales wing Leigh Halfpenny, meanwhile, has rejoined the squad following his rehabilitation from a thigh injury at club Cardiff Blues.
Lions manager Gerald Davies confirmed the 20-year-old would be available for selection following this evening’s fixture.