Parsons hails ‘special’ victory

Blues captain James Parsons is delighted that his side could repay their supporters' faith following the 22-16 win over the British and Irish Lions.

In a topsy-turvy encounter, in which the lead changed hands numerous times, the Blues eventually prevailed thanks to a magical Ihaia West try.

Riotous celebrations at the final whistle showed just how big of an achievement beating the Lions is to Parsons and his troops.

"It feels pretty special," Parsons told Stuff.

"It's a big occasion for us as a club, we owed our fans something because we did not achieve the level we wanted to in Super Rugby and as I said earlier in the week, it's not redemption but it's something we can hand our hat on."

Meanwhile, Lions skipper Ken Owens could not hide his disappointment, especially as his side had an opportunity to snatch victory but wasted an attacking lineout five metres out from the Blues' try-line in the dying minutes.

"We came here to build on Saturday's performance in Whangarei and get another victory but unfortunately we got a defeat. All credit to the Blues, they took their chances and got the win."

He believed the Lions quickly need to learn how to be more clinical.

"We have to look at ball retention, we turned it over a few times on first phase which put us under a little bit of pressure."