The tradition of the draw came back into vogue with both the Australian and New Zealand rugby league coaches endorsing their sides' 16-all result in a gripping opening Tri-Nations Test.

Australian prop Shane Webcke lamented the golden point rule only encouraged a "field-goal shootout".

That was the case as both teams desperately tried to break the deadlock in a physical and torrid clash played in front of 19,118 fans at North Harbour Stadium.

Australian halves Craig Gower (2) and Darren Lockyer and New Zealand halfback Thomas Leuluai attempted four field goals between them during the final 12 minutes.

Lockyer attempted a fifth overall but it was after the fulltime siren as the teams shared the competition points.

"I'm pretty happy with that sort of a game being settled like that," said Kiwis coach Daniel Anderson.

"Golden point is good for spectators but it can remain an NRL or an RFL (concept).

"Leave the traditional game with traditional rules."

Rival coach Wayne Bennett, a staunch opponent of golden point, agreed.

"Both sides have to back up next Saturday in London (at Loftus Road Stadium) and there was no need to be on the football field any longer today," he argued.

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