Nothing much in rugby tastes sweeter than victory in a British & Irish Lions series. It is the rarity value that makes it extra special and, before kick-off, just one touring side since 1997 had enjoyed the ultimate buzz. Hence the massed roars of pent-up joy and relief at the final whistle when Maro Itoje’s squad officially secured their lofty status in Lions history.
While there is still one last Test to be played, in Sydney next Saturday, the Lions hold an unassailable 2-0 lead and can for ever bask in a collective golden glow. But those bare facts do not remotely tell the full story of a memorable contest in front of a record crowd for a Lions Test of just over 90,000, mostly red-clad, spectators.
