by Paul Cook in Perth - After all the pre-match spin and spite, the reality, if the result is the be all and end all, finished uncomfortably close to the predictions of a whitewash as the British & Irish Lions plundered nine tries in a 69-17 victory over the Western Force last night. However, when the game is judged over the eighty minute performance, the Force put up a far greater fight than the margin of victory suggests. Yes, the Lions scored those nine tries, had the bulk of possession, particularly in the first half and made fifteen line breaks to one but they were breached twice, in similar circumstances, and made to work far harder than they were by the seasoned pros donning Barbarian jerseys last Saturday. Force captain Matt Hodgson was proud in defeat afterwards, “They’re definitely a tough opposition a