British & Irish Lions skipper Brian O’Driscoll insists Monday night’s disappointing performance against Argentina will be forgotten when the tourists take on New Zealand’s provincial sides.
A 25-25 draw with the Pumas was hardly the ideal way to start the tour but O’Driscoll believes with six more games scheduled before the first Test on June 25, players will get another opportunity to impress.
"There was the realisation against Argentina that we had only been together for four days of training, so we always knew things weren’t going to be perfect," said the Ireland captain.
"There were some guys in the team who were a little disappointed with their displays but there will be further chances to show the selectors what they can do. Argentina was just one match in 12."
Sir Clive Woodward’s men used a conservative gameplan at the Millennium Stadium and O’Driscoll, who will be featuring on his second Lions tour, explained it was never going to be a points fest.
"I don’t think the crowd quite knew what to expect. Some were obviously hoping for a Barbarians style performance but they were never going to get that. It was important that we didn’t lose the game," he said.
"Argentina are one of the most difficult sides to play against in the world. They’re scrappy, they kill ball and are very good at competing at the tackle. Their style doesn’t lend itself to running rugby."
