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Lions: Warren Gatland praises his players after convincing win over Barbarians

Image: Warren Gatland: Delighted with opening display of the tour

Lions head coach Warren Gatland was delighted with his side's 59-8 victory over the Barbarians in the opening game of their 10-match tour.

Phillips, who was named man of the match, was among the players picked out by Gatland for particular praise. Although the head coach was quick to highlight the competition for places, which he said was typified by the Phillips' replacement, Conor Murray. He said: "I thought Mike Phillips had a great game but then Conor Murray came on and gave us momentum too. We are pleased with that start and it is a nice way to leave Hong Kong and start focusing on the rest of the tour. "I thought Toby Faletau was great and Dan Lydiate worked his socks off and Justin Tipuric again showed what a good footballer he is. The two second rows continued to work hard." Gatland added: "We are a bit disappointed about conceding a try because we are trying to build up a bit of a strong defensive record. But all in all a really good start. "Players know they have played in pretty tough conditions but I think we'll get a huge benefit out of that. The conditioners are saying the adaptions from training and with the game should be good for us next week in Australia." Watch every Lions game live only on Sky Sports. Click here to sign up or upgrade now.

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