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Warburton: Job only half done for Lions
Sam Warburton said the British and Irish Lions have only done “half a job” and must raise their game if they are to claim a series victory in New Zealand after their dramatic win in Wellington on Saturday.
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The tourists fought back to end the world champions’ 47-match winning run on home soil at Westpac Stadium, where Owen Farrell’s penalty three minutes from time sealed a 24-21 victory.
Sonny Bill Williams’ red card for a shoulder charge on Anthony Watson in the first half proved to be costly for All Blacks, who were beaten in their own backyard for the first time in eight years.
It is 46 years since the Lions claimed their sole series win over New Zealand and captain Warburton will only be in the mood to celebrate if they can repeat that feat at Eden Park next Saturday.
“It’s only half a job done. One apiece now, effectively we’ve only played two halves.” the recalled Wales back-row told Sky Sports.
“It’s great we’ve got it to 1-1, we wanted to take it to a decider at Eden Park.
“There’s still plenty to work on, we gave away far too many penalties in the second half. We’ve got to up it again next week.”
Taulupe Faletau rounded off a slick move in the corner for the first try of the game in the second half and Conor Murray added another before Farrell had the final say.
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Seven Beauden Barrett penalties had given New Zealand a seven-point advantage with 12 minutes to play, but Warburton praised the tourists for the manner in which they stuck to the task.
Warburton said: “To score a try from a wide play, from Toby to bring us back into it, it shows we’re willing to play. I was pleased the boys didn’t shut up shop, we were brave and took those risks.
“We look forward to next week, we’ve got an epic battle on our hands.”
