They'll share a two-person living space, live off meat patties and beer while enduring long periods without showers to support their Lions.

But don't expect these four Irishmen from the frontline of Drico's Army to sing Swing Low Sweet Chariot.

The boys from Belfast _ Adam Telford, Rick McKabbin, Mark Houston and Ian Keith _ were among the many proud Lions supporters weathering the aftermath of Tuesday night's celebrations at the Marist grounds, in Invercargill, yesterday.

Tucked away in a tiny two-person motorhome, the guys were nursing hangovers while preparing for the migration to Queenstown when The Southland Times caught up with them.

They've been travelling together to save costs for two weeks and flip cards to decide who gets the spine-friendly sleeping pads each night.

"It's not too comfy sleeping around the gear stick, to be sure, " Mr Telford said.

The Irishmen's cash saving initiative has allowed the recent university graduates to pour at least $200 a night into various drinking holes during the tour.

At just $90 a day for their vehicle, the group has joined the swarm of Brits who have claimed the highways in their motorhomes under names such as Drico's Army (after Lions captain Brian O'Driscoll), Wexford Lions on Tour, Sure Sure, The Fun Bus, and Honk if You're Horny.

When they can get a motorpark they use it. If not, they park up where they can.

"Waiting on a shower is the worst thing ... and we had to throw a bottle of bleach and air-freshener in the (on-board) toilet yesterday, " Mr Telford said.

"We don't look the best for photos, like, " Mr Houston added.

Despite the hardship, they were loving the chance to see all the country up close and were the envy of folks back home.

And the rugby? "It's not looking too good for the test ... but we'll put on a brave face for the lads, " Mr Keith said.

And although the English made up the bulk of the Lions team and their supporting red army, their celtish brothers in arms weren't letting them away with too much.

"We'll put up with them (the Poms) for this tour but we still boo them when they sing Swing Low, " he said.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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