When the British & Irish Lions roll into town, fireworks are inevitable. But some matches don’t just light up the sky—they leave scorch marks in history. On their 2001 and 2013 tours of Australia, the Lions faced Queensland opposition in three unforgettable clashes that showcased everything from ruthless dominance to gritty resilience. With the Lions taking on the Reds on Wednesday, 02 July 2025 around the corner, let’s rewind to Queensland—where legends roared loudest.
🏉 2001: Lions 83–6 Queensland Presidents XV
Townsville played host to an early-tour tune-up that turned into a track meet. The Lions unleashed a red tidal wave, running in 13 tries—including five from Jason Robinson, who danced through defenders like they were ghosts. It was a demolition job. Yes, the opposition wasn’t elite, but the Lions treated the contest like a final. Physical, fast, and utterly clinical. This was a team sending a message to Australia: “We’re not here for a holiday.”
🔥 2001: Lions 42–8 Queensland Reds
Ballymore. A real test. The Reds were stacked with Wallabies, physicality, and Super 12 pedigree. And yet… the Lions shredded them. Four first-half tries set the tone, with forwards punching holes and backs carving through space. Jonny Wilkinson ran the show with robotic precision, while Martin Johnson captained like a vengeful general. This wasn’t just dominance—it was authority. A team clicking on all cylinders before the Test series began.
🛡️ 2013: Lions 22–12 Queensland Reds
Different era, different feel. Suncorp Stadium, 2013. The Lions had a bruising evening ahead. The Reds came to play—scoring two brilliant first-half tries and pushing the Lions back onto their heels. But Owen Farrell’s unshakeable boot and Ben Youngs’ snipe from close range saved the day. The 22–12 win may not have been flashy, but it revealed the Lions’ capacity to endure under fire. And in tour rugby, that’s gold dust.
Final Whistle Thoughts
Queensland isn’t just a stop on the map—it’s a proving ground. Whether they’re running riot like in 2001 or surviving the onslaught like in 2013, the Lions’ showdowns here have always meant something. They test depth. They reveal form. And most importantly—they sharpen the claws for the Test arena.
So, as #Lions2025 looms, just remember: Queensland’s where the roar always starts.
