The All Blacks hammered Woodward's weakened England side on a two-Test tour of New Zealand last month, and the Lions coach's comments are sure to fuel the rivalry ahead of next summer's eagerly awaited tour.
But while New Zealand's bowlers produced a fine display, the batting performance will leave the home side with concerns ahead of the two-Test series between the sides which starts next week.
That two-Test series against the All Blacks will give Gatland's side another stern examination against the cream of world rugby, another chance to learn from their mistakes.
But the match-fit Lions, who had won all six of their games prior to Saturday's opening Test, scored two late tries against the visibly-tiring home side --who were hanging on when the final whistle was eventually blown.