Former stars put their money on home team

It's Auckland over the Lions' discards tonight by a majority decision, say some of the home side's former stars.

One-time Auckland and All Black first-five Mac Herewini, who played four tests against the Lions in 1966, was putting his faith in the enthusiasm of Justin Collins' team.

"I think they've got a great chance, I don't know how far the Lions will be able to lift themselves after the big loss on Saturday."

If the weather plays nice, the 64-year-old was picking a 28-16 win to the blue and whites.

"Auckland have got quite a good team, and they're a young team and I'm hoping it'll be a good running game. It just depends on what the Lions show up with."

Legendary lineout enforcer Robin Brooke, another to enjoy victory over the Lions, hoped the Super 12 and All Black experience among the Aucklanders would carry them through what looks like being a tight encounter.

"There'll be some bloody good match-ups because both teams have nothing to lose and the Lions have hit rock bottom anyway. It'll be a hard game for Auckland, especially the young guys, but I'm picking they'll come through 24-18."

Not so sure was former fullback Colin Farrell, who faced the Lions twice for the All Blacks in 1977. He reckoned the Lions would arrive at Eden Park with enough motivation to win 27-20.

"I think the Lions might get up and take this one just on the fact that the midweekers haven't dropped a game yet. It's an interesting Auckland team, but they haven't been together long, so that lack of unity might go against them."

Terry Wright, the province's winger of the 80s and early 90s, agreed motivation would play a big role, but felt it would favour the home side instead.

"I think Auckland have got a lot to prove. The dirt-trackers will have their own point as well, but their tour has gone a bit flat. Unfortunately, it looks like we'll be having a bit of rain ... so there won't be a big score. I'm going 28-21 Auckland."