Rugby: British and Irish Lions get South African tour off to flying start with win over Lions

The British & Irish Lions got their South Africa tour off to a winning start as Josh Adams scored four tries at Ellis Park on Sunday (NZ time), beating their Johannesburg namesakes 56-14 in a stiff early examination against the surreal backdrop of empty stands.

Louis Rees-Zammit dotted down the first try of the tour and more came from Hamish Watson, Ali Price and Gareth Davies, all converted by Owen Farrell as the tourists overcame a spirited home side in the first of eight matches over the next six weeks.

But they had to play to the echoing sound of their own voices behind closed doors without the boisterous and numerous supporters the Lions traditionally bring on tour with them.

It ensured a flat atmosphere at the start of what is usually a much-anticipated sporting occasion as South Africa endures severe lockdown restrictions amid a third wave of COVID-19.

The home Lions, without any of the Springbok contingent, responded with tries from Vincent Tshituka and Sibhale Maxwane, converted by Jordan Hendrikse.

"I was very pleased with the energy and enthusiasm, it was a really positive start," satisfied coach Warren Gatland said.

Adams' tries all came in the second half after the Lions went into the break 21-7 ahead but was still short of the most scored by a Lions tourist in South Africa. Winger JJ Williams managed six tries in a single game on tour in 1974.

Reuters