Lions head coach Warren Gatland predicts New Zealand tactics for first Test
BRITISH AND IRISH LIONS head coach Warren Gatland says it will be interesting to see what tactics New Zealand go with today.
Lions coach Warren Gatland says New Zealand's tactics will be interesting in the first Test
After six warm-up matches, the wait is finally over as the Lions face the daunting task of trying to end New Zealand's unbeaten run at Eden Park which stretches 23 years (8.35am).
Gatland is happy with how his side is shaping up and is expecting the first 20 minutes to be crucial.
"We've been pretty happing with the way we've been defending, it will be interesting to see what tactic the All Blacks come with tonight," Gatland said on Sky Sports.
"I suspect that Beauden Barrett will kick quite a bit early on to try and nullify some of our line speed that might come off.
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It will be interesting tactics and particularly that first 20 minutes but we're really excited about it
"It will be interesting tactics and particularly that first 20 minutes but we're really excited about it."
Gatland has called on his side to come up with 'x factor' moments if they are to cause a shock in Auckland.
"I think you've just got to take your opportunities and if it means getting an offload away and something that's a little bit x factor or something a bit special, you've got to have the courage to be able to do that," he added.
"We are encouraging the players to do that, we saw some of that on Tuesday night (against the Chiefs).
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"We've been creating opportunities and often when you look at the All Blacks, certainly what they do special is an offload out the back.
"The game against the Blues when Sonny Bill Williams gets the ball away and scored a fantastic try.
"We've got to be prepared and have the courage and be bold enough to do the same sort of thing."