Saturday 1 July 2017 11:32, UK
New Zealand coach Steve Hansen has indicated Sonny Bill Williams' sending off was the turning point in their shock 24-21 loss to the British and Lions.
Williams was red-carded in the 25th minute of the clash in Wellington for a shoulder charge at the head of Anthony Watson with the contest locked at 3-3.
Warren Gatland's side trailed by nine points at one stage but mounted a late comeback, with Owen Farrell's 78th-minute penalty completing a stunning Lions win, as the world champions suffered their first defeat at home in almost eight years.
Hansen was gracious in defeat, telling Sky Sports the Lions were good value for their victory, which ensures next weekend's third and final Test at Auckland's Eden Park becomes a series decider.
He said: "I'm not stunned [by this defeat to the Lions]. I've always said they are a very good side and we didn't help ourselves by losing a player.
"So whilst I'm very proud of my side for hanging in there with 14 men, you've got to take your hat off and say well done to the Lions.
"He [the referee] made the call, so whether he got it right or wrong is irrelevant. I've always said you've got to go with what he decides.
"[The issue shouldn't be the tackle]. What we should be doing now from this point on is look at how we played and how they played. The Lions deserved the win. I'm happy for them and obviously we are a bit disappointed but we're very proud of our boys."
