As a controller, I actually appreciate the value of the old lights on, lights off practice. Many of us (espicially the oldtimers) watch (even during the day) what you have illuminated as you approach a runway with a hold short instruction. If you're all lit up, and have been told to hold short, I am going to say something....again...just to be sure.
I will say in this case, that given the particulars, that lights being off or on was proabbly not a contributing factor. However, just maybe, it will prevent the next one!! Just a thought.
BTW, today was really nice. I would like to thank everyone for the improved hold short readbacks! I do not think I had to ask anyone (except maybe 2 total out of my whole day - which is a true record) to read back their hold short instructions correctly! Almost 100% gave me correct and complete readbacks almost all day! Please keep up the great work. It makes my job infinitely easier, and will keep you a whole lot safer!!