BEAST'S TRIBUTE TO HERO PHIL VICKERY

PHIL VICKERY has been hailed by the man who almost wrecked his international career.

Tendai 'The Beast' Mtawarira single-handedly destroyed the British Lions' scrum in the first Test in Durban this summer.

World Cup-winner Vickery was subbed just after half-time with his reputation in tatters before an injury to Adam Jones saw him return for the third Test.

Spingbok Mtawarira, who played for the Barbarians against the All Blacks yesterday, admits it was a "dream come true" to out-muscle his childhood hero.

He said: "Phil Vickery is a great player and a great servant of the game. I was looking forward to the challenge and I think he probably under-estimated me.

"That first Test was a very joyful day for me. Everyone thought the Lions would boss us but we took them on and overpowered them.

"We were so tight as a pack and looked after each other. That kind of cohesion doesn't happen very often so it was pretty special to be a part of it.

"We felt like nothing could stop us achieving what we wanted that day. It was like a dream.

"There is no bigger Test than the Lions and I will remember that game forever."

Vickery missed England's autumn Tests after a fourth operation on his damaged neck.

The prop, 33, must now endure another gruelling bout of rehab if he is to play again.

Mtwarira added: "I wish Phil a speedy recovery from his surgery. It must be a worrying time for him but I will be praying for him, that's for sure.

"It's always tough being injured but you feed off your team- mates and the guys around you and that gives you the strength to battle through.

"I'd like nothing more than to go head to head with him again in another Test match. I really hope that can happen."

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