Wallabies coach Robbie Deans takes a silent stance

Australia coach Robbie Deans today refused to provide the British and Irish Lions with any ammunition ahead of Saturday's series opener by distancing himself from Bob Dwyer's accusation that the tourists are "cheats".

Dwyer, who masterminded the Wallabies' 1991 World Cup triumph, ramped up hostilities by highlighting their play at the scrum and breakdown – among other areas – as instances where they "play outside the laws of the game". But Deans refused to pour any additional fuel onto the fire, although he did admit that both teams would seek to gain any advantage possible.

“I’ve been made aware of what was said, but I’m not interested in discussing it,” said Deans. “It’s a Test match and every side pushes the boundaries. The referees will come under pressure, no doubt.”

Deans watched from the stands as the injury-hit Lions completed their fifth victory of an unbeaten tour by routing the NSW Waratahs 47-17 in Sydney on Saturday.

The Kiwi has been impressed by their progress through Australia, but has yet to see them deviate from the script he was expecting

“The Lions have played well and will be formidable foes. We know their players well, but they’ve come together well,” he said. “You pick up little things from the tour games which are unique to this side and distinct from what’s been seen before.”

The strength of the Lions’ opposition to date has led to fears they may be underprepared for the Test series, but the same concern can be levelled at the Wallabies.

Deans, who names his side for the showdown at Suncorp Stadium on Thursday, admits the lack of a preparation match is less than ideal.

“We’ve known from the outset that playing a warm-up game was not an option for us,” he said. “We’ve just made the most of the time we’ve had.”