Lions coach revels in stylish win

Hull, 3 November 2007

Tony Smith hailed a fantastic all-round display from Great Britain following the crushing 44-0 win over New Zealand.

"To nil a team with as many attacking players as the Kiwis have got is some feat," Smith told BBC Radio 5 Live.

"That's pretty tough to do in the modern game, but to do so and score some terrific, entertaining tries was the icing on the cake.

"I'm pleased for the players and the Great Britain supporters. They've got a team to be proud of at the moment."

Interview: Great Britain coach Tony Smith

Paul Wellens agreed that Britain's brilliant defence had set the platform for such a comprehensive victory.

"Early in the second half we held New Zealand on our line for four sets," said the St Helens full-back.

"When you defend the line like that it quite often demoralises the opposition. I think that was the case tonight."

The Lions were utterly dominant as they sealed their first series win since whitewashing the Kiwis 3-0 in 1993.

"The combinations and the cohesion between the players was outstanding," added Smith.

"It was a really entertaining game. I could feel it coming before the game.

"There is a quiet determination about the players. They weren't going to be denied.

"In any game of rugby league it's difficult to nil a team. It shows a lot of discipline, commitment, determination and pride in their jersey. These boys have certainly got that."

Smith hinted that he could make changes for the third and final Test at Wigan's JJB Stadium next weekend.

"Some of these guys have been playing week in, week out for a long, long time," he said.

"They may well benefit next year because of not playing an extra game."

But he insisted that whatever team he decided to field, the Lions would be going all out to make it a clean sweep.

"We are greedy, we want to do that," he said.

"Regardless of whether I select players from this week's game or not, the guys on standby will do a great job. I've got every bit of faith in them."

Wellens added that it was vital for the team not to let their standards drop.

"It's important we don't look too far down the track," he said. "We've got another important game next week against New Zealand.

"But if we can continue to perform like we did tonight, other countries will start to take notice."

Source: BBC Sport