Ioane stars as New Zealand recover to beat Johannesburg Lions
New Zealand's centre Rieko Ioane played a key role in the team's 41-35 victory over the Lions franchise in Johannesburg on Tuesday. The All Blacks, who had rested all 15 Test starters, overcame an 18-point deficit, trailing 35-17 after 49 minutes. Ioane scored two tries, with fly-half Richie Mo’unga converting both, significantly narrowing the gap. New Zealand took the lead for the first time in the match at 62 minutes when Ioane set up flanker Ethan Blackadder to score. The tourists secured the win in the final minute with an unconverted try from wing Emoni Narawa. This victory maintains New Zealand's perfect tour record, following wins against the Stormers, Sharks, Bulls, and a 33-16 first Test triumph over South Africa. Lions skipper and No.8 Francke Horn praised the crowd's support, while All Blacks captain and lock Patrick Tuipulotu noted the Lions' challenge and the team's energy from the Test side's recent success. The Test series is set to resume on Saturday in Cape Town.
