The last word – I asked Lions fans what they thought about Warren Gatland

What has made this British & Irish Lions tour so memorable? The rugby has been OK (come on, admit it), the press conferences have been amazingly boring, and the weather has been inclement.

As always, the special part of a Lions tour is the fans. So, to acknowledge the part they’ve played, I hit a few bars on Ponsonby Road and asked the traveling fans what they thought about their chances. I also asked them about what they thought about coach Warren Gatland – the results were somewhat polarising.

Nathan – Ebbw Vale, Wales: I reckon the Lions have it 14-12. Game will be won up front. (on Gatland) He’s average. I don’t want him to be Welsh coach, I want that to change. I want them to play more expansive rugby.

Mark – Ebbw Vale, Wales: I was here in 2005 when the All Blacks won 3-0. We scored the first try in the second test but then the All Blacks just smashed us. I think the Lions are now more professional in their approach. There’s a lot more talent in this squad than in 2005. They’ve built momentum and I really think they can turn over the All Blacks today. (on Gatland) He’s very shrewd. We have to trust him and he’s done well in the last series.

Anne – Glasgow, Scotland: The Lions are gonna win because we’re the greatest! They’ll have a big second half. I think they’re all awesome, but I’m not happy with there not being any Scots in the team. (on Gatland) He’s done what he thinks is right for the team, so I cannae criticse that.

Alex – England: I want the Lions to win but as long as it’s a good game of rugby I don’t mind. I think the All Blacks are going to get a few more tries than the Lions. (on Gatland) He’s…alright.

Steve – London, England: I think it’s going to be very close. I don’t even think Hansen or Gatland knows either. Our forwards need to front up again like they did in Wellington, they stopped the 9 and 10 and halted the All Blacks. It’ll be different tonight, Hansen’s picked a side that will attack from the wings and it’ll be an open rugby game. (on Gatland) I think he’s been great. He had a great win in Australia, now he’s pulled this one back too. It’s a big credit to him that he picked the team to do that last week.

Tony – Limerick, Ireland: They just need to smash them up front and keep attacking. I have to be honest with you mate, we got lucky last week with the red card. Thanks Sonny Bill! (on Gatland) I have to be honest, I’m still a bit upset over him dropping BOD four years ago. But if they win tonight, I’ll forgive him.

Squeak – South Wales: I couldn’t give a **** who wins, I’m gonna get blotto. (On Gatland) He’s a ****. I think the ****ing New Zealand team are gonna have a big game.