Smith sets sights on Aussies

Their eight-try performance marked a record winning margin in Test rugby for the Lions and, with the Gillette Fusion series now secured, Smith says he is looking to even more positive times ahead - with the ultimate goal to be pass Australia at the top of the world rankings.

Smith said: "Australia are deservedly the number one team in the world but we're still chasing them and we want to go after that. Time will give us that opportunity."

Smith, who only three weeks ago lifted the Super League crowd with Leeds, added: "I'm lucky at this moment, I'm getting to coach some pretty good teams.

"This team is getting better and better. We were very solid last week and we wanted to improve on being solid and I thought we did. I thought we were very committed.

"To nil a team, any team, in a game of rugby league is pretty fair going, particularly with the calibre of players they've got in there. To do that was outstanding. I thought the tries we put on were equally enjoyable.

"I like being involved with these guys. They're good guys and they're a good team. That's where I get my kicks and we've got some very good experienced players who are leading the way."

A brace from Leon Pryce, allied with scores from Jamie Peacock, Gareth Raynor, Paul Wellens, Ade Gardner, Rob Burrow and Keith Senior were the key moments in the game, leaving Smith purring over the state of the British game.

"I hope this has a big impact on our game, we should be very proud of what we're producing in this country," said the Australian.

"The brand of rugby league we play here is outstanding and very entertaining. You couldn't fail to see that. I think that's what the spectators want, to be entertained. It's not all about completion rates and pumping out sets."