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Warburton crosses whitewash on Lions return

13th June 2017


Sam Warburton crossed the whitewash on his return to the British and Irish Lions team, as Highlanders secured a late 23-22 victory over Warren Gatland's side.

Warburton, returning to the side following a minor ankle injury, played 68 minutes at the Forsyth Barr Stadium, before he was replaced by international teammate Justin Tipuric.

Bath’s Jonathan Joseph and Glasgow Warriors’ Tommy Seymour were also on the scoresheet, as Dan Biggar slotted seven points from the boot to give the visitors a 22-13 lead.

A converted Liam Coltman try and a 73rd minute penalty from Marty Banks secured the victory for the Super Rugby outfit.

Lions captain, Warburton, believes a lack of discipline was a problem at the Forsyth Barr Stadium.

"I think there was a string of four penalties in that second half, where we were in some decent territory but we gave away four penalties in a row. That gave them way too much territory and momentum and they got points off it eventually," said Warburton.

"Discipline on Saturday was kept to single figures, but I doubt it was that today.

"It's not a problem, because it was good on Saturday, but for this game we said that we got to keep it to single figures.

"For one reason or another, it wasn't, but you've also got to give Highlanders a bit of credit as they forced the pressure to give away the penalties.

"I guess it was going to be a game where the ball was going to get thrown around a bit more, but we gave away too much possession at the breakdown, our first and second arrival wasn't there quick enough in the first half and that was something we spoke about during the game."