All Blacks coach opens up on Barrett's goal-kicking
SPOTLIGHT: All Blacks head coach Ian Foster says he is not too worried about Beauden Barrett’s goal-kicking ahead of matches against Argentina and South Africa.
The New Zealanders recorded a 38-21 over the Wallabies in Round Two of the Rugby Championship in Perth on Sunday, but the margin could have been bigger if the All Blacks’ kickers were on target with most of their kicks to goal.
Barrett was successful with his first three shots at goal before missing three conversion attempts. Damian McKenzie later took over the goal-kicking responsibilities and he also missed two shots at goal.
The visitors ended with a 38 percent conversion rate.
“Clearly it wasn’t the night for either [team’s] kickers,” Foster said.
“But particularly in Beaudie’s case, if you had to get one of the two things right of goal kicking or playing really well, I am pleased he got the right one right.
Despite, missing a few kicks at goal, Foster praised Barrett’s performance in open play.
“I thought he [Barrett] handled the game really, really well. Great decision making, particularly early, and really calm when we were under a bit of pressure with the [red] card.
“I think he showed his class.
“The goal-kicking will come right,” Foster added.
The All Blacks face the Pumas in Round Three in Queensland on Sunday, while the Wallabies will host the Springboks later in the day.
The All Blacks are on top of the standings with 10 points with the Springboks behind them on nine points.
After two games, the Wallabies and Los Pumas are both still without a point in the tournament.
Source: stuff.co.nz
