A four try haul by winger Josh Adams has ensured the British and Irish Lions opened their rugby tour with a 56-14 win over South African domestic team the Lions at Johannesburg.
In a stiff early examination against the surreal backdrop of empty stands, Louis Rees-Zammit crossed for the tour's first try before more came from Hamish Watson, Ali Price and Gareth Davies.
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All were 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 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.
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.
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