Lions took a ‘big step’ says Gatland

Lions Tour Reaction: Warren Gatland believes the British and Irish Lions have sent a firm message to South Africa after running…

Lions Tour Reaction:Warren Gatland believes the British and Irish Lions have sent a firm message to South Africa after running in 10 tries in a 74-10 demolition of the Golden Lions in Johannesburg.

There were five tries in each half as the Lions banished memories of a poor opening match on the tour.

Jamie Roberts, Ugo Monye and Tommy Bowe scored two tries each, with Brian O'Driscoll, Tom Croft, James Hook and Stephen Ferris getting the others.

Gatland, the Lions' assistant coach, hopes the scoreline earns his team a little more respect as the first Tests approach.

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"I think it's a big step," said Gatland. "We were pretty disappointed with the opening game but we hadn't been together for a long time.

"We really fronted up today and we're pleased. It gets the tour on track and hopefully earns a bit of respect. That's what tonight's performance is all about."

The Lions looked tame in beating the Royal XV 37-25 on Saturday, and Gatland said there was a desire to set that performance right and prove they can be a test for the South Africans.

"We've not been given much of a chance coming here and the boys just wanted to show we're a good team," he said.

Stand-in captain Brian O'Driscoll echoed those thoughts.

"It was a good victory and a good performance," he said. "This is where the Lions want to be at. We wanted to set out a marker and everyone who took to the pitch did that."

O'Driscoll came off after 60 minutes but insisted he could have played longer and that his injured shoulder is now fine.

"My shoulder felt good," he said. "I made a few tackles on that side and felt good."