Lions chief Sir Clive Woodward insists he is "absolutely convinced" his players have got what it takes to challenge the All Blacks - despite being mauled by the Maori.

For a first time in eight attempts since 1930, the Maori - marshalled brilliantly by Northampton-bound Carlos Spencer - defeated their illustrious opponents.

And it was a victory far more comprehensive than the final scoreline suggests, leaving Woodward with much to ponder heading into crucial pre-first Test games against Wellington and Otago next week.