Gatland in plea to ref for fair deal

Warren Gatland called today for a "fair crack of the whip" from the officials in the Second Test as he fears the South African team will try to "bully" their way to victory.

A number of decisions by New Zealand referee Bryce Lawrence and his touch judges went against the Lions in the First Test, leaving forwards coach Gatland to make a plea to French referee Christophe Berdos ahead of tomorrow's game.

He said: "All you want is a fair crack from the officials and give us a break with some of the 50-50 calls. We aren't asking for any favours - we just want the officials to let us play."

The Lions pack was over-run last week and Gatland expects his men to face another mammoth battle.

He said: "South Africa have a bully mentality, pushing players off the ball and getting into your face.

"However, I'd be very surprised if any of the Lions take a backward step."