The Lions have won only once in 10 attempts on New Zealand soil - John Dawes' legendary tourists in 1971 - but Woodward is convinced the 2005 vintage have the makings of a "great Lions side".
And even if some of the Lions could hardly control themselves as they laughed their way through Woodward's address on the harbourside, they know that if all else fails at least they are wearing the right coloured jerseys.
"I'd like to say a word of congratulations to Liverpool Football Club. The whole squad sat at the airport watching the game. Unfortunately the plane left when the game went into penalties," said Woodward.
"To hear on the plane that Liverpool had won on penalties was just fantastic. I'd like to pass on the team's congratulations to Rafael Benitez and particularly Steven Gerrard, who I think is one of the world's greatest players.
"I was reading all the hype leading into that game and there was some research done on the best colour to wear when you are playing competitive sport and it came out very clearly that winning teams wear red.
"It was interesting to see Liverpool win, to see Arsenal beat Manchester United wearing red in the FA Cup at the weekend.
"Clearly I am glad to be coaching a team wearing red."
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