Video of the Week: Lions make history in 1971
Barry John (foreground), one of the heroes of the 1971 British Lions rugby tour of New Zealand, and victory over the All Blacks in the international series. * File photo dated 17/8/71 of rugby legend Barry John, one of the heroes of the 1971 British Lions rugby tour of New Zealand. Barry John was due to be sentenced, for his second drink-driving offence. The former Wales and British Lions star was charged with refusing to take a breathalyser test when he was stopped by police in Cardiff on April 22. He admitted the offence when he appeared at Cardiff Magistrates Court last month.
It’s that time again for Planet Rugby’s Video of the Week, bringing you standout footage you may like. Today, we look back to the 1971 British and Irish Lions series.
The Lions had never won a series in New Zealand but 49 years ago a great side was put together by Welsh coach Carywn James.
Captained by John Dawes, they lost just once – to Queensland in Australia – heading into the Tests and duly sealed a landmark 9-3 triumph in Dunedin. The All Blacks then responded to level matters going into the key third match, where the winner would put themselves within touching distance of claiming the series.
It was therefore a huge match on this day in 1971, but it was the visitors that controlled matters. James’ men were excellent and a piece of Gareth Edwards brilliance saw him produce a great hand-off and pass to find countryman Barry John, who did the rest.
That score gave the Lions an unassailable 13-0 lead to go 2-1 up, before they drew the fourth and final encounter two weeks later to make history.
Video credit: British and Irish Lions