Getting closer in our countdown to the British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand, it is only fitting that Last Word On Rugby offer rugby fans a ‘Lions flashback’ or two. Continuing today, follow us as we recall ten of the best clashes from historic tours.
#6: From 1977, in a time of big hair and even bigger sideburns. The decade that fashion forgot, but it was also known for some sporting highlights. This Lions flashback is of an era where the heritage and aura of ‘the tour’ was International news.
Famously known for iconic photograph; a time when the elements played a big part in the game of rugby–see below image.
This was a four match series, the traditional testing ground for superiority. And it held the attention, as Phil Bennett brought a talented group ‘downunder’ to challenge the mighty All Blacks. Although, played in an era with more of the unknown factors.
In 2017, fans know all about the 41 men who were selected, but in 1977, New Zealand (NZ) rugby fans had little awareness of the tourists. And that brought a fear factor–it was a heightened sense of competition. And it was a great series.
Biggest Test for Any International Player
The John Dawes side would go unbeaten until four days before the opening test match. They were surprisingly defeated by NZ Universities 21-9. They handed the Lions their first defeat in a memorable unbeaten run of thirty-nine matches. That upset was not the ideal preparation, so the first test had a sense of redemption for the tourists.
The First Test will be remembered for the attacking mindset from the home side. Three tries were scored that illustrated the intention that the hosts wished to force onto the Lions. A fine memory for local fans was of All Blacks pint-sized winger Grant Batty scoring his try, the tearaway was a revelation beside the bigger BG Williams.
In those days, there was a long delay between the test matches. In fact five games, but when the Second Test rolled around, the tourists had toughened up. Aggression was a part of the game back then, with the ruck an area of ‘rough and tumble’. Ripped shirts were evidence of that, and the fists were flying at times. But with all that, it was only the muddy field that halted many fine backline moves.
Phil Bennett and JJ Williams kicked much of their ball away, but fortunately as much of the All Black counter-attack broke down. Lineouts were hotly contested, but in the end penalty count was even and only a single try to JJ Williams try (see above) separated the sides, 9-13.
Lions Flashback: Thrilling Series Decided at Eden Park
The video link shows this match in full. And with so much depending on it, the NZ coaching panel had made several changes; Scott Robertson pressed his claims, and would form a partnership with Bill Osborne and Bevan Wilson in for Colin Farrell. The latter was a respected place kicker, and in the 19-7 result, his points were crucial.
With all the talent, it seemed that the faster playing style of the All Blacks was hard for the Lions to combat. They had some set piece, but made less use of it and even a try to Ireland captain Willie Duggan could not get them out of a slump.
On to the Fourth and deciding Test at Eden Park. The big city turned out in full to cheer home their All Blacks. Kiwi fans were again treated to a real contest, with no one side ever getting out to a big lead. The early exchange of penalties only broken when Dougie Morgan scored. And while Phil Bennett was as dangerous as ever, it was his kick directly to Osborne that led to the towering return kick. Over running the Lions backs, the ball popped out for Laurie Knight to score. Series won 3-1.
Small Margins of Victory the Standard for 1977 Tour
In today’s age, fans expect more. The five points for a try and focus on reaching a bonus point have benefited the All Blacks. But while the small margin of a 10-9 victory seems odd today, for the hosts it pretty much summed up type of game they produced. Even though it was lethal, the backs never fully gelled. Kicks were missed and it is noticeable how the ruck is contested by more players then today–causing much more carnage and ill-disciplined infringements.
Much is different from yesteryear. Players were only issued with a single pair of boots, and two jerseys. A track suit and evening dress had to last the full tour. So the advantages of today might very well have given the tourists of 1977 more fight.
This Lions flashback may prove that the ‘razzle dazzle’ of today appears superior, but it only appears so. JJ Williams, Mike Gibson, Derek Quinnell, Graham Price and Terry Cobner would all find their places on any current squad. This classic series had high tension that is just as impressive, possibly even harder than today. The names may change, and the scores will likely be higher in 2017, but demands placed on players is still of the highest caliber.
The British and Irish Lions tour is the highest honour, and certainly the toughest test.
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Follow our ‘Lions flashback’ series, building up towards the opening game of the British and Irish Lions tour, on June 3.
