'Grit and guts': Rieko Ioane on scratchy All Blacks victory over Lions

All Blacks outside-back Rieko Ioane has reflected on what was a patchy team performance against the Lions at Ellis Park in Johannesburg.

The All Blacks’ last midweek clash didn’t go exactly to plan, but Ioane and other experienced players helped Dave Rennie’s side overcome a powerful Lions team at their home stadium.

The Kiwis needed impact from Xavier Numia, Bradley Slater, Saula Ma’u, and Jamie Hannah to secure the midweek victory, after a slow start by Rennie’s men.

The Blues midfielder crossed twice during the second-half comeback by the All Blacks, picking off an intercept in the 55th minute. His first of the evening was from a Beauden Barrett tip-on pass, putting Ioane through a huge gap in the Lions’ defence.

Speaking to Jeff Wilson on Sky Sport post-match, the 88-Test veteran explained the type of pressure the All Blacks were under.

“Oh man, it was [tough]. Look, it wasn’t the way we wanted to start,” Ioane told Sky Sport.

“You know, we started slow, and we said we want to start fast. But look, honestly, I’m just super proud of the effort, the grit and guts that the boys showed to come from so far down and keep our win streak alive.”

When asked about his personal performance, and where his head space is at after missing out on selection for the first Test of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, Ioane admits he’s still positive.

“Yeah, definitely. Look, it’s awesome, and like, we still had so much experience out there mixed in with that youth and that energy. So wherever my role is for the team, that’s what I’m doing, and I’ll do it to the best of my ability. So hopefully be able to show that again.”

Having played against the Lions this year for Leinster, Ioane was well aware of the threat they pose.

“This is my third time playing this Lions team, and I sort of knew coming into this game that they were probably the least affected in terms of international selection.

“So they’re a tight-knit group, and you know, every single game I played them this year, it’s been tight. Probably not as tight as that, but look, they’re such a quality side.”