The British & Irish Lions hold a 50 percent winning record almost halfway through their tour of New Zealand after a 23-22 loss to the Highlanders on Tuesday.
Warren Gatland's side were more efficient on attack scoring three tries -- their most on tour to date -- but ill-discipline and defensive frailties saw the Lions suffer their second defeat.
It was a brilliant result for the Highlanders -- who were without All Blacks stars Aaron and Ben Smith, while several members of their starting pack are in camp with New Zealand Maori.
Yes @Highlanders you bloody beauties!!!!! Get the 🍺🍺 out!!! Dunedin go mental!!!! #HIGvBIL
— Nick Evans (@nick10evans) June 13, 2017
The depth of NZ rugby is scary.. 👏🏼
— Matt Giteau (@giteau_rugby) June 13, 2017
1 province vs 4 countries!! Great work @highlanders. Can't wait for the @ChiefsRugby next week #HIGvBIL #LionsTour2017
— BJ Watling (@B_Jwatling) June 13, 2017
Former internationals in the Northern Hemisphere were left frustrated with the finish, while Will Carling was succinct in his summary having missed the game.
Another game that should have been won by the @lionsofficial. Small margins prep for the tests is getting tougher👍🏼
— Lewis Moody (@LewisMoody7) June 13, 2017
Sooo close! If that ball had gone to hand JJ was certainly in! Frustrating end. Lots of missed opportunities cost them the game #LionsNZ2017
— Maggie Alphonsi MBE (@MaggieAlphonsi) June 13, 2017
just seen Lions score - .........bollocks! 🤬
— Will Carling (@willcarling) June 13, 2017
Still, there are those who remain positive for the Lions cause -- including the players themselves who will now head to Rotorua to face the Maori.
Great game but tough loss for @lionsofficial. Biggar MOM for me...
— Martyn Williams (@martynewilliams) June 13, 2017
Cheering on from the sidelines with @StuartWHOGG_ today. Great atmosphere, pity about result - on to the weekend! #AllForOne #LionsNZ2017 pic.twitter.com/vKRk1VCygu
— Leigh Halfpenny (@LeighHalfpenny1) June 13, 2017