The Lions have touched down in enemy territory and not even a 16-hour flight could dampen their spirits ahead of Saturday's Super Rugby final against the Crusaders.
The Johannesburg franchise landed in Christchurch late Tuesday night and were hoping for third time lucky, after losing the competition's last two finals.
Lions captain Warren Whiteley said the trip may have been scheduled slightly earlier than normal, but there'd be no issues having his side primed and ready for the weekend's match.
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"We might've wanted to fly a bit later, but we'll take it as it comes," Whiteley told Newshub. "We're happy we're here now in Christchurch, so we can chill and then start preparing.
"You're in a final, it’s a fantastic opportunity."
While the breakdown has been identified as a key area of contention, Whiteley admits the Crusaders are almost free of any weakness.
"All over the park, they've just been phenomenal. The last couple of weeks, they've just stepped it up in all areas.
"They're confrontational in everything they do and they're very accurate as well. Their discipline was particularly good last weekend. They're just a great side."
Much has been made of the shortcomings of both AMI Stadium and local fans, after consistently disappointing attendance numbers through the Crusaders playoff run, despite the side playing a pulsating brand of rugby.
But for Whiteley, playing in a global hotbed of the game is akin to a pilgrimage.
"Christchurch, what a wonderful place to play.
"It's rugby-man country... traditionally, one of the greatest places to play."
Whiteley realises the enormity of the challenge ahead, his side's chances already widely written-off by both bookies and pundits alike.
"No-one's giving us a chance and that's just because of the quality of the Crusaders. They're just a fantastic side.
"But we know, by being in a final, you're giving yourself a chance. We'll give it our best shot.
"It's a game of rugby and anything can happen."
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Join us at 7:30pm Saturday for live updates of the Crusaders vs Lions Super Rugby final.
