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Breakfast with Lions: Match point in Melbourne

After a win in the first Test, Warren G’s man have the series in their sights but don’t expect the Aussies to go down without a fight.

Sean O'Brien loves Wimbledon time. Credit: INPHO

On the Lions’ menu

HAVING EARNED VICTORY in the opening Test match thanks to a stroke of luck regarding Kurtley Beale's footwear, Round has arrived and the with it comes the chance to wrap up the series early with back-to-back victories.

At his team announcement press conference earlier this week, head coach Warren Gatland has revealed he expected it to be a physical encounter with Australia sure to look upon it as a "do-or-die" game.

The starting XV sees five changes with the big news Tommy Bowe's remarkable recovery from surgery on a broken bone in his right hand. The Ulster man replaces Alex Cuthbert on the right wing while Ben Youngs comes in for Mike Phillips.

Quote from the camp

“Alex [Cuthbert] did well last week, but I’m delighted Tommy’s back.” Sexton said today. “To break a bone in your hand and then to play three weeks later is a pretty phenomenal recovery.
- Jonny Sexton on Tommy Bowe's return

Pic of the Day

An absolute beast of a man... and The Hulk. Credit: David Davies/PA Wire/Press Association Images

You’ve got to see this

Lions legend Gavin Hastings and former Wallaby scrumhalf George Gregan preview the Second Test

YouTube credit: FoxSportsAu

Tweet of the day

Injured Jamie Roberts got to jam with the Manic Street Preachers after all.


What the Aussies say

“It’s going to be a battle royale, I’ve got no doubt about that at all. I was impressed with the physicality of the entire [first Test] game, but in particular at the tackle and breakdown – that battle is going to be fierce. I think the Wallabies got a slight nod in that department, so I’ve no doubt the British and Irish Lions will be absolutely gunning to win the physical battle tomorrow.” - Former Aussies captain Stirling Mortlock

BIL watch

Chilling with the laydeez.

Credit: INPHO/Billy Stickland

*TheScore.ie will be liveblogging all the Lions v Australia Second Test action from 10am on Saturday.

Leo Cullen backs Leinster teammate Heaslip to make winning difference for Lions

Mortlock predicts breakdown ‘battle royale’ as Wallabies cling to 2nd Test hope

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