All Blacks defeat was down to 'collective stupidity' - Former England international

South Africa's Willie le Roux and Elton Jantjies celebrate their two-point win over the All Blacks. Photo / Photosport

Former England international Stuart Barnes has put the All Blacks' decision to not take a late dropped goal against South Africa down to 'collective stupidity'.

Writing for the Sunday Times, Barnes lambasted the All Blacks for not taking a dropped goal attempt in the closing stages of the 36-34 defeat.

"I'd rather put it down to a collective stupidity than individual cowardice," Barnes wrote.

"Whichever way, someone should have at least gone for the drop-goal. Rugby is about scoring more points than the opposition. It wasn't a seventh try required but a 37th point. So much for the stupidity."

Following the loss the All Blacks revealed they rejected rather than ignored the possibility of setting up for a field goal in that last play of the game.

"The call went out to take a shot there," said All Blacks halfback TJ Perenara. "We went to set for it but then we got a picture where we have a three-on-two and for me there is a lot more things that can go wrong in a drop goal than can in a three-on-two."

Barnes says the loss, New Zealand's first at home to South Africa since 2009, would probably work in the All Blacks' favour as they prepare for next year's Rugby World Cup.

"I suspect the nature of this first home defeat by South Africa since 2009 will prove to be a turning point in their drive for a third consecutive World Cup.

"It is more likely that the losers will prove to be the long-term winners as the testing of limits are replaced with the quest for controlled excellence."