 McClennan's side beat the Lions quite comfortably in their first meeting |
New Zealand coach Brian McClennan says Great Britain's Tri-Nations win over Australia has left his side needing a miracle to qualify for the final. The holders are bottom of the table with no points and face their final game against the Lions next Saturday.
McClennan said: "That was a shock result. We've just had disappointment after disappointment after disappointment.
"If we can win by 10 or 12 points the rest is in the lap of the gods."
New Zealand beat the Lions 18-14 last weekend but lost their points when it was found Australian-born hooker Nathan Fien did not meet residency requirements.
The week before they gifted Australia a 20-15 win by surrendering two soft tries in the dying stages of the match.
Now they must beat the Lions emphatically next weekend, then rely on Australia thrashing Great Britain when they meet again on 18 November.
"Great Britain have proved they're a quality side," McClennan added. "That was a terrific win and they've got plenty of footy in them."
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