Farrell’s Lions sealed the series with a dramatic comeback in Melbourne, showcasing smart selections, Irish resilience, and real grit

The Australians are a special breed of competitive animal especially when taken for granted.

Perhaps, secretly, the former Irish coach would have settled for that heading into a series they’ve appeared destined to lose from a long way out.

Given the list of injuries the Wallabies have had to cope with, the former Ireland head coach may have to settle for a competitive performance in the hope that the cavalry return next week in time to keep the series alive. Here are three key areas ahead of today's first test in Brisbane

Maybe it’s because I’m not used to watching the Lions from a distance, having missed just two test series, both against New Zealand in 1993 and 2005, since my first Lions tour to the same country in 1983. However, for whatever reason, this latest expedition has failed to grip me in the manner I expected.

On the evidence presented to date, there’s plenty of fine-tuning required in both camps before either side can approach the key opening test with a real degree of confidence. 

The victory over Benetton on Leeside last weekend could not have been better timed.

There’s already strong speculation that Andy Farrell will add at least two players, including his son Owen, to the Lions squad before the game against Argentina. 

The tourists' boss will reveal his hand on Thursday in London.

Throughout my career, Cardiff were seen as the elite of the elite.