Everyone saying the same thing about Owen Farrell's Lions cameo

In his first international match since the 2023 World Cup in France, Farrell made an immediate impact. He was involved in three second-half tries, powering through contact and offloading from inside centre to set up Scott Cummings’ score.

Linking up with Marcus Smith, who replaced Fin Smith at fly-half, Farrell stepped into first receiver and launched a pinpoint pass to Mack Hansen. Hansen then found Keenan, allowing Van der Merwe to race over for his third try.

Farrell’s clever grubber kick caused chaos in the backfield, leading to mistakes and the Lions’ final try scored by Henry Pollock.

Rugby Pass writer Josh Raisey said:

One fan commented:
"The boos from the ‘silly folk’ were audible, but Farrell still managed to stroll on, boss it, and remind everyone he’s not bothered unless your name's on the team sheet. Short cameo but enjoyable to see him back and smiling. Well played Lions."

Another added:
"Two assists from Owen Farrell, can’t believe people were doubting his ability. Stick him in that test squad immediately."

One fan wrote:
"Will go under appreciated, but Owen Farrell’s touches of the ball so far have been class. Just simple passing but done at the line with such precision that people do not need to check their run at all, and they’ve resulted in line breaks and tries."

And another remarked:
"Lot of people won't want to admit this...but Owen #Farrell has been quietly good since he's come on. Strong in defence and shown some lovely touches in attack, I'd put money that he's on bench next weekend for 1st test. What a man to bring on for last 15/20."

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Schoeman impressed in open play with strong carries and physicality but struggled at the scrum, conceding multiple free kicks for poor technique. His inconsistency at set-piece remains a key issue as test selection nears.

FloRugby 4/10: "Got busy in the loose as he got on the ball for some big rumbles. His shaky work at scrum time is what is holding him back, as he conceded a few free kicks for not driving straight. Schoeman offered solid carries and physicality in open play, but his inconsistency at the set-piece remains a concern as test selection draws nearer."

Cowan-Dickie combined aggressive breakdown work with costly technical flaws, including an early line-out overthrow and an injury from a reckless low tackle. His physical presence was notable, but errors undermined his impact with him now ruled out of next week's series opener.

FloRugby 4/10: "Line-out overthrow in minute four dented a decent start. Exceptionally physical around the breakdown, notably clearing out two defenders to allow Ben White's try. His injury in the 36th minute was the result of his notorious low-tackling technique, raising concerns again. A mixed bag, combining aggression with costly technical flaws."

Smith showed resilience under pressure but lacked influence overall. He missed key opportunities, including a kick and defensive lapse, and didn’t do enough to secure a bench role ahead of the First Test.

BALLS 6/10: "Overcooked an early garryowen into the AUNZ 22. Opposition were finding him on their carries, but he never backed down. Missed Tuipulotu on a strong carry. Did not do enough to rubber-stamp a bench spot for the First Test."

RUCK 5/10: "So often a reliable option at fly-half, Northampton’s Smith had an off night in Adelaide. A couple of simple missed kicks and a lack of real effect in this game mean Andy Farrell could look at his more versatile options – Marcus Smith or Owen Farrell – to back up Finn Russell in Brisbane."

Stuart’s scrummaging issues continued, drawing multiple penalties and leading to an early substitution. While his defensive effort was solid, limited impact in attack and persistent technical faults are hurting his test prospects.

FloRugby 3/10: "Similar to Schoeman, the Bath tighthead is trailing in the test pecking order due to inconsistent scrummaging. Penalised several times for collapsing or instability. Showed effort in open play, but his early substitution tells the story. Needs a statement performance to regain footing in selection talks."

BALLS 5/10: "Scrum was steady enough, without having a clear edge. Conceded a penalty for offside. Stuck 10 tackles but only made one carry, for little change."

Introduction:
Think you know your Lions legends? ?
Test your rugby knowledge by naming the players who have scored the most points for the British & Irish Lions in test matches. These are the top scorers from historic tours—can you remember them all?

You have 5 minutes.
Good luck!