MIGHTY BLACKS

Shane Howarth, the former Newport player, revealed last week in an exclusive interview with the Argus that the fans back in his native country were expecting their All Blacks to whitewash the British Lions 3-0 in the Test series.

Owen doesn't agree with that, of course, but he said before the Lions departed yesterday he fully understood their attitude.

"The New Zealand public have got every reason to be arrogant," he said. "When I played against them last year it was the best game I've ever been involved in.

"They've got some fantastic players, I played against Gerry Collins and Richie McCaw in the junior World Cup in 1999 and they had the better of me then.

"Their number eight, Moses Tuiall'i, who played against us last November, is another really good player and so is Rodney So'olalo (another number eight who played at blindside flanker against Wales).

"It's going to be a massive challenge," warned Owen. "New Zealand is a big rugby country, the All Blacks play some brilliant rugby and it's going to be incredible, really difficult for us.

Owen captained the Lions against Argentina on Monday night, a game which ended in a disappointing 25-25 draw from a Lions point of view.

"It was a bit disappointing not to get the result," said Owen, "but it has given us something to work on, we're all looking forward to the tour."

Lions coach Sir Clive Woodward warned the All Blacks: "We respect you, but we don't fear you. I have a simple message for the people who await us - this is the best prepared squad in the history of the Lions and we are going to make them into a world class team."

The Lions left without three of their 45 players - Welsh pair Gareth Thomas, who may not be able to fly out until after the French Championship final on June 11, and Stephen Jones, who leaves on Sunday, plus England captain Jason Robinson. Woodward admitted there was a slight question about him because his pregnant wife is unwell.