ABs Lions 3rd and final test

[rowdy]

It has been announced that both Carter and Mauger will NOT be available for the 3rd test. Theres a possiblilty that after the first 2 demolition jobs by the ABs the PS might get up around the 20pt mark and if thats the case the Lions could well cover. Will wait and see who NZ choose as replacements. Gona be a tough call as Mauger would normally be cover for 10. We could likely see Evans in at 10, with Tana moving in to 12 and Conrad Smith or Ma'a Nonu at 13. I cant see a recall for Merts as its a great chance to give blood one of NZs up and comers in a Big time test that really doesnt have that much riding on it anymore. McAllister and maybe Hill, Donald and Lavea could also be outside chances as well. It really isnt a clear decision unless Ive forgotten some one.??

[rowdy]

Re: ABs Lions 3rd and final test Sorry this is a cut and paste from annother thread, but I ended up writing more than I thought I would so may as well use it to get things started in this one. Follows from a question posted as to the ABs motivation to take the series 3 zip. The ABs will clearly wana sweep the Lions, but the team they name will be intersting. Even b4 the 2nd test they made 3 changes which showed amazing confidence I thought. basically defensively strong players for more attacking options. This weekend they have injuries to deal with too, and it wouldnt supriise if they made a couple of other changes as well. Its possible theyll wana rest 1 or 2 of McCaw, Jack, or Collins, I dont know. The point is after 2 big wins the PS could well get out beyond what I would consider an acceptble line to want to back the ABs on. In saying that throughout the tour, clearly backing against the Lions has been the profitable decision. So I wont be on them unless the line is up around the 25 point mark. No predictions until I see the team, but a high scoring tight ABs win wouldnt suprise me.