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Stick accuses Lions of 'destroying the dignity of the series'
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Mzwandile Stick has turned up the pressure ahead of the second Test
Mzwandile Stick has turned up the pressure ahead of the second Test

South Africa assistant coach Mzwandile Stick has accused the British and Irish Lions of "destroying the dignity of the series" ahead of the second Test on Saturday.

The Springboks are aiming to bounce back in Cape Town following last weekend's controversial 22-17 defeat in the series opener.

The performance of referee Nic Berry came under scrutiny from the hosts, with director of rugby Rassie Erasmus embarking on a lengthy rant on social media criticising the official.

Backing Erasmus, Stick has intensified the pressure ahead of the second Test.

The assistant coach has suggested Warren Gatland's Lions challenged the integrity of the governing body in the lead-up to the opening Test by questioning the appointment of South African Marius Jonker as TMO.

"Let's go on the build-up where firstly, the integrity of World Rugby was challenged by another human being when Marius was appointed TMO," Stick said.

"And then Gatland on the other side went crazy, and was asking World Rugby and challenging them about the decision they had made.

"We're not asking for any favours, we just want equal grounds.

"I wouldn't like the whole series to be about decisions taken by the officials, or about the coaches off the field.

"Even if things are being said in social media or a traditional media conference, it's still the media. All coaches want to get their messages across.

"He (Erasmus) wanted to state his as his own personal view; it had nothing to do with us as a team.

"So if Rassie got into trouble because of what he said on social media, I think the gentleman that challenged the integrity of the game when the TMO was challenged, I think that is something that really destroyed the dignity of the series and also challenges the integrity of World Rugby."

Springboks skipper Siya Kolisi admitted he felt the Lions had an unfair advantage during the opening Test.

The second will be overseen by New Zealander Ben O'Keeffe; an appointment welcomed by Kolisi. 

"I didn't feel respected at all, I didn't feel I was given a fair opportunity," he said.

"I just didn't feel I was given the access to the referee. 

"If you watch the game again, you'll definitely be able to see.

"But I'm looking forward to a new game and a new referee.

"I think Ben will give a fair opportunity for both captains, and that's all we're asking."

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