  We show how the Lie group analysis method can be used in order to obtain
first integrals of any system of ordinary differential equations.
  The method of reduction/increase of order developed by Nucci (J. Math. Phys.
37, 1772-1775 (1996)) is essential. Noether's theorem is neither necessary nor
considered. The most striking example we present is the relationship between
Lie group analysis and the famous first integral of the Kowalevski top.
