Andy Farrell admitted the British & Irish Lions must improve following a scrappy and mistake-filled 21-10 victory over the NSW Waratahs. The tourists struggled with rhythm and composure and are unlikely to include the head coach’s son, Owen, in their squad for the upcoming match against the Brumbies in Canberra on Wednesday.
The Lions received pushback after implying the Waratahs intentionally wet the pitch to disrupt their play. Despite heavy rain earlier in the week and evening dew, Farrell hinted the home side might have contributed to the slippery surface. "The pitch was very wet," he remarked.
Though the Lions secured their third consecutive win in Australia, they conceded 20 turnovers and scored only one try in the second half against a side that placed eighth in this year’s Super Rugby. "There’s a bit of frustration," said Farrell. "We’re disappointed with how we used our possession and territory and handled certain moments."
"With 70% territory, 60% possession, and 20 turnovers, we were far from sharp. Some credit goes to them, but that’s not good enough by our standards."
Farrell also highlighted concerns around the Lions’ breakdown performance, worrying ahead of the Test series against the Wallabies. "All Australian teams attack the ball well—not just now but historically. We must improve in that area. Slow ball from breakdown pressure means you can’t just keep spreading it wide and expect to gain momentum."
Owen Farrell is not expected to play in the final midweek game before the first Test on July 19. The former England captain, who landed in Australia on Friday, is adjusting to jetlag and hasn’t played in two months. "I don’t know for sure, but Wednesday might be too soon," said Andy Farrell.
If so, Owen Farrell—mocked by teammates when his face appeared on screen—will have just one chance to press his case, against a combined AUS/NZ Invitational side in Adelaide next Saturday.
On the pitch conditions, Farrell added: "I asked Mike Catt after the game, and he laughed. It’s been done before—good tactics, right? The ball was slippery, the breakdowns fierce, and their defensive line was fast. We overplayed at times, especially near halfway, letting them stay in the game."
Waratahs coach Dan McKellar dismissed Farrell’s suggestion, attributing the dampness to Tuesday’s heavy rain.
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