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If only we could have another game! - Barrett left unsatisfied by Lions draw
By Harry West
Beauden Barrett was left wanting more after New Zealand's enthralling series with the British and Irish Lions ended in a draw.
Saturday's encounter at Eden Park ended 15-15, meaning opposing captains Kieran Read and Sam Warburton jointly held the trophy aloft in the post-match presentation.
It was a surreal ending to an engrossing series, and one that left both sides struggling to sum up their emotions, with fly-half Barrett disappointed not to have a fourth instalment to decide the series once and for all.
"It's not ideal, not the result either team wanted," he told Sky Sports. "It was a great spectacle that came down to the wire, it would have been good to see a result though.
"I was ready to go for another 10 minutes but unfortunately that's how it didn't play out.
"They played well to come back, Owen [Farrell] kicked really well. We're disappointed, we played a lot of footy and came close but they were good enough to come back and fight for that draw.
"Even the British and Irish Lions boys would've liked to go for an extra 10, first point wins, but never mind we'll just have to wait and see.
"I loved the intent early on, it wasn't the outcome we wanted but we can be proud of the the way we've progressed this tour. If only we could have another game."
Asked if he would still be around for the next Lions tour of New Zealand in 12 years' time, when Barrett will be 38, the fly-half replied: "[Brother] Jordie might be, but I don't like my chances!"
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Latest Comments
I'd rate the brothers Hendricks a point or two lower. Jaden has really not delivered on his early promise and Jordan's kicking at posts was quite erratic. Amongst other things.
I was really surprised that DuhDuh was replaced and not Jordan. DuhDuh had a great game and just underlined his class in a backline that was not firing on all cylinders.
Damian Willemse was missed. Hopefully he'll be back to full fitness and have an injury free 2025 (and '26 and '27 and so on until he decides to retire to spend time with his grandchildren).
RG was great. What an athlete.
Very happy that Hanekom made his debut at last. He gave a good account of himself and will hopefully grow into his role on the international stage.
All things considered, this was another frustrating Bok performance. Even though it was a comfortable win, it wasn't a commanding win. This Welsh team should've been put away by a far larger margin.
But I have faith in Dr Rassie. He knows more than I do. Bring on 2027 😁
Go to commentsGo the AB's .. Probs win by about 30 I reckon ... Cheers ..
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