Mixed emotions after Lions win

The Lions had already lost the series after two nailbiting defeats - but they rallied in emphatic fashion to record a record-equalling victory over the Springboks.

The Lions will struggle to escape the feeling of what might have been - but McGeechan insisted his men can head home with their heads held high and said: "It has been a fantastic series, probably one of the outstanding Test series I have been involved in."

He added: "I must say congratulations to the Springboks. They won the series we both wanted.

"But what these players have achieved in just six weeks should not be underestimated. They have played the world champions in their own back yard and given as good as they have got for three Tests.

"There was just a total of eight points difference in the first two Tests. We thought it might be the same in this one but the players came with a real intent and focus and it showed."

Shane Williams rediscovered his form with two tries while Jamie Heaslip, Phil Vickery, Martyn Williams, Tommy Bowe and Riki Flutey were all immense.

Bowe was moved off the wing and Flutey given his Lions Test debut after injuries to the centres Jamie Roberts and Brian O'Driscoll.

"Maybe it is something to do with the Lions jersey. You do things sometimes you have never been asked to do in any other context," said McGeechan.

"Players that buy into that often find something. Shane was great. Tommy and Riki stepped in had really good games. I thought Phil Vickery was outstanding and the pack brought a real intensity to the game."