Lions shortcomings can be fixed, says Gatland

British and Irish Lions head coach Warren Gatland says his side’s failings in an opening-Test defeat to New Zealand can be fixed.

The Lions were beaten 30-15 in Auckland on Saturday, falling behind in the three-match series ahead of the second Test in Wellington next weekend.

A stunning try finished off by Sean O’Brien late in the first half gave the Lions cause for optimism, but chances and half-chances came and went as the All Blacks pulled clear through a Rieko Ioane double.

Rhys Webb did cross for a consolation after the clock had struck 80, despite the Lions having seen errors and ill-discipline creep into their game late on, and Gatland remains optimistic.

“The message was things we can fix – we switched off for a quick tap [for New Zealand’s first try], the ball’s gone through Liam Williams’ hands and Ioane scored, and a scrum penalty that they took advantage from,” Gatland told Sky Sports.

“No excuse in terms of the result. The All Blacks were very direct, better than us at the breakdown and we missed opportunities – all things we can fix.

15 – The Lions’ 15 point defeat was their heaviest since the 2005 tour when they lost all three Tests by 18+ points. Worry. pic.twitter.com/WlZXGPTgkM

— OptaJonny (@OptaJonny) June 24, 2017

“We created chances and shifted the ball pretty well. They didn’t come out and play champagne rugby, they were very direct off nine.

“We were looking to get the upper hand up front, but in fairness to them they got it today.”