All Blacks bounce back to save boss

NEW ZEALAND scored two late tries to come from behind to beat South Africa in Johannesburg — a win that may have saved head coach Ian Foster’s job.

Foster was under enormous pressure on the back of three straight losses, two of them by Ireland and then another at the hands of South Africa last Saturday.

It was looking bleak for the All Blacks’ chief once again when they fell behind in the final quarter — and were down to 14 men — having earlier led 15-0.

Captain Sam Cane and hooker Taukei’aho Samisoni scored tries in the first half to take New Zealand into the lead. South Africa replied with tries by Lukhanyo Am and Makazole Mapimpi either side of half-time and Handre Pollard kicked the home team 23-21 ahead in the 68th minute, the first time the Boks led.

And with the Kiwis down to 14 following Beauden Barrett’s yellow card they would have expected to see the match out.

But New Zealand hit back courtesy of Havili and Scott Barrett. Foster was a relieved man at the end though unsure what impact the victory would have on his future. ‘I’ve got no idea,’ he said.

‘There’s no doubt it’s been a pretty stressful time.’

While Foster was clearly elated he was also acutely aware it should never have been that dramatic after they had outplayed the world champions early on.