Ahead of the Lions’ absolutely massive game against Crusaders, there was an interesting take on the favourite to start No.9 for the Lions against New Zealand.
Former Ireland international Kevin McLaughlin told The Hard Yards rugby podcast that Welsh scrum-half Rhys Webb was the man leading the way.
“It’s Rhys Webb’s jersey to lose,” said McLaughlin. “I think Gatland will probably favour him but he has a good chance that he’s starting [against Crusaders] with Owen Farrell.”
Murray got the chance and he grabbed it chest-tight with both arms. He was immense and close to peerless for the Lions in a hard-fought 12-3 win in Christchurch. The only man that matched him was Farrell.
From the opening minutes, it was clear to see that Murray was right up to the speed of the game. Beyond it even as he harried and chased, and kicked, and slung spot-on passes to his carriers. He made five carries of his own, for 28 metres gained, and threw in a lovely line break but his kicking was exceptional.
Murray’s performance gained glowing praise from Crusaders and All Blacks legend Justin Marshall, himself a former No.9 of considerable note. On commentary duty for the game, Marshall declared:
“Class. All class tonight. Everything Murray has done has been exceptional.”
Marshall’s expert view was met with universal agreement.
On Sky Sport, in New Zealand, host Scott Robertson labelled Murray as “world-class” and no-one was arguing. Indeed, there was widespread praise for the Limerick native on social media.
Conor Murray all class tonight 👏🏼
— Pele Cowley (@pele_cowley) June 10, 2017
Much stronger team performance by the @lionsofficial. Tight five securing an excellent platform, @ConorMurray_9 providing superb control,
— Conor Boyle (@conor2212) June 10, 2017
Scott Robertson raving about "world class" Conor Murray on NZ tv #motm
— Shane Kelly (@shanekels) June 10, 2017
Congrats guys on win. Conor Murray was my Man of the Match.
— Stephanie (@billtedsam) June 10, 2017
The only glitch in Murray’s outing was accidentally pole-axing Lions fullback Stuart Hogg with an elbow but they looked to have made up in the victorious, post-match dressing room:
Glad to see Hogg and Murray re-united in better circumstances! pic.twitter.com/GIAUwpaqE3
— SportsJOE (@SportsJOEdotie) June 10, 2017
On to Dunedin and Murray is now the man with the 9 jersey to lose…
