Despite accomplished goal kickers Damian McKenzie and Jordie Barrett both being on the field during the dying stages of the All Blacks' 36-34 loss to South Africa in Wellington last night, the side kept faith in star man Beauden Barrett's ability with the boot, assistant coach Ian Foster says.
During last night's loss in Wellington, Barrett, 27, missed four of his six attempts at goal, with the All Blacks falling short by just two points.
Speaking at last night's media conference, Foster was asked about the prospect of letting either McKenzie, or Barrett's younger brother Jordie take kicking duties, saying that the All Blacks' coaching group backed the decision made on field.
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Barrett converted only two conversions from six in tonight's 36-34 loss to the Springboks.
"It's one of those things we left for them on the field," he began.
"We spoke in the box about the possibility of changing.
"Beaudy (Barrett) obviously felt he was kicking the ball pretty well, but the posts got in the row."
Foster also praised Barrett's bravery in continuing to kick despite his early failures.
"Beaudy had missed two out of the first four, I admire him for stepping up.
"He hit the post with his last two - so that shows you the margins."
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