O’Callaghan Moves Closer To Test Place.

Donncha O’Callaghan moved ever closer to a place in the Lions Test 22 with an outstanding display in the 36-14 victory over Taranaki in New Plymouth today.

Donncha O’Callaghan moved ever closer to a place in the Lions Test 22 with an outstanding display in the 36-14 victory over Taranaki in New Plymouth today.

Right from the kick-off O’Callaghan was prominent in every aspect of play as the Lions recovered from a first half battering, to come from 7-6 down at half-time to end up convincing and fully deserving winners with tries from Shane Horgan, Martin Corry and Geordan Murphy (2). Charlie Hodgson contributed 16 points (4 pens, 2 cons).

British & Irish Lions: Geordan Murphy; Shane Horgan, Will Greenwood, Ollie Smith, Denis Hickie; Charlie Hodgson, Chris Cusiter; Michael Owen, Lewis Moody, Martin Corry capt; Danny Grewcock, Donncha O’Callaghan; John Hayes, (G Jenkins), Andy Titterrell, Graham Rowntree.

Taranaki: Scott Ireland; Sailosi Tagicakibau, Mark Stewart, Chris Woods, Lifeimi Mafi, Sam Young; Craig Fevre, Tomasi Soqeta; Tony Penn, Andrew Hore, Gordon Slater, John Willis, Paul Tito (capt), Scott Breman, Chris Masoe. Replacements: Phil Mitchell, Hamish Mitchell, Jason Eaton, Richard Bryant, Mathew Harvey, Brendon Watt, James King.

Referee – Kelvin Deaker.