If only we could have another game! - Barrett left unsatisfied by Lions draw

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.

We are proud to have done battle with you @lionsofficial. Thank you. #NZLvBIL ??? pic.twitter.com/cHqjzwygsy

— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) July 8, 2017

“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!”