score more points than the Springboks over the three test matches – sorry Springbok fans – I can’t resist the stats. Fantastic series and congrats to the Springboks on winning it overall. In fact, it was great to see the Lions applauding the fantastic Springbok captain John Smit as he  lifted the trophy.  The end of a great tour and very fond memories of a great sporting nation, South Africa (I’ve got to come back for the World Cup if  Ireland qualify!).

I caught the Emerging Springboks game in Capetown and witnessed one of the finest conversions ever kicked in the dying moments to give the youngish Springboks a draw. Then I witnessed another killer kick in the Second Test in Pretoria – again the last kick of the game to give the Springboks the series.  The Lions played magnificently but didn’t get the result. However what thrilled me were the Springbok fans who applauded every Lions try, and converted kicks. I am constantly amazed at the generosity of their hospitality – they can’t do enough for us. A great country – I’m coming back (if Ireland qualify for the  World Cup 2010)!