Ardent Argentina Absorb Australia in Atmospheric Mendoza Chaos
The crisp mountain air at Estadio Malvinas Argentinas played host to an utterly intoxicating, maddening spectacle as Los Pumas and the Wallabies scrapped to a gripping 28-28 draw. Beamed live back home on Stan Sport, this clash carried major Puma Trophy stakes and massive ladder implications for both sides. Australia arrived seeking to cement their tactical rebuild under Les Kiss, while Argentina looked to weaponize their home fortress. What transpired was a pure test of endurance: Australia exploded out of the blocks only to spend the final quarter trapped in a self-inflicted nightmare against thirteen men.
First Half Breakdown
Australia opened with ruthless precision, stringing together crisp passages as Ben Donaldson, returning at flyhalf, linked cleanly with Ryan Lonergan and the backline. In the 19th minute, a surging burst by Taniela Tupou off a Donaldson break allowed skipper Harry Wilson to pick up from the base of a tight ruck and crash over. Lonergan slotted the extras for a 0-7 lead.
Argentina’s discipline unspooled shortly after when lock Franco Molina copped a yellow card in the 26th minute. The Wallabies capitalized immediately from a quick five-meter tap penalty, sending Max Jorgensen through a gap for a converted try to stretch the advantage to 0-14.
However, momentum pivoted violently when Aussie lock Jeremy Williams earned his own yellow card in the 32nd minute. Sensing blood, the Puma pack launched a brutal pick-and-drive barrage, enabling Pablo Matera to power over from close range in the 35th minute. Just three minutes later, Argentina executed a masterpiece off the tail of a lineout, as Joaquin Moro sent Ignacio Mendy sliding through a defensive seam. Santiago Carreras added both conversions, locking the contest at 14-14 going into the sheds.
Second Half Breakdown
The Wallabies reclaimed the lead early in the second stanza when flanker Fraser McReight forced his way over at the 47th minute following relentless tight phase play, with Lonergan adding the conversion. Argentina responded with interest. In the 54th minute, front-rower Ignacio Ruiz finished off a punishing 23-phase pick-and-go march to level the scores at 21-21.
The home side seized control in the 63rd minute when Matera barged over for his double, capped by another Carreras conversion to push Argentina ahead 28-21. Then came the match’s chaotic climax. Lucio Cinti was sin-binned in the 67th minute, followed rapidly by Carreras in the 69th minute for cynical foul play on the line. Referee James Doleman awarded Australia a penalty try to level the match at 28-28.
Despite playing the final ten minutes with a fifteen-to-thirteen man advantage, Australia fell apart strategically. Argentina starved the Wallabies of possession by grinding through short, one-off forward carries. The Aussies managed a meager 22% possession in the final ten minutes, resorting to aimless box kicks and rushed passing, leaving the match locked at a stalemate when Doleman blew full-time.
The Individuals
Fraser McReight was an absolute workhorse, leading all defenders on the pitch with an astounding 26 tackles completed alongside his critical second-half try. He covered every blade of grass, contesting the breakdown relentlessly and providing the physical glue that kept the Australian defensive line intact under immense pressure.
Harry Wilson led from the front, racking up 23 tackles completed and scoring the opening try of the match. His decision-making at the base of the scrum was vital, and his calm, constant dialogue with referee James Doleman helped navigate several critical refereeing interpretations during heated forward clashes.
Pablo Matera delivered a masterclass in psychological and physical warfare for Los Pumas, compiling 17 carries and dotting down for two crucial tries. During the tense closing sequence with two teammates in the sin bin, Matera brazenly carried the ball in one hand, taunting defenders and securing tight possession to keep the Wallabies pinned down.
Ignacio Ruiz proved to be an unstoppable force in the tight channels, amassing 19 carries and crossing the line for a crucial try. He acted as the primary battering ram during Argentina’s relentless 23-phase build-up, consistently making meters after contact against a bruising Australian front row.
Tom Wright produced a trademark rocks-and-diamonds outing at fullback. While he showcased brilliant vision to spot a defensive gap late in the match, he was plagued by 3 turnovers lost and erratic decision-making on kick returns, symbolising Australia’s frantic game management down the stretch.
Rodrigo Isgro was a constant thorn in Australia’s side, recording 1 line break, 2 turnovers won, and 2 dominant tackles. Though he coughed up 5 turnovers lost in high-risk passages, his high-octane physical presence kept the Wallaby fringe defenders on high alert throughout the contest.
Where it was Won
1. Red-Zone Conversion Efficiency vs Total Possession
Argentina completely dominated territorial metrics, securing 53% overall possession and driving 10 entries into Australia’s 22-meter zone. However, Australia showed devastating efficiency inside the red zone, averaging 4.67 points scored per entry across just 6 opportunities, compared to Argentina’s 2.8 points per entry.
2. The 13-Man Ball Retention Stranglehold
When Cinti and Carreras received yellow cards, Argentina executed a masterclass in game control. Rather than spreading the ball wide, Los Pumas employed tight pick-and-go carries to hold 78% of the possession in the final ten minutes. Australia’s failure to build phases against a depleted line cost them victory.
3. Set Piece Dominance and Tackle Resistance
Argentina’s forward pack anchored the match, recording a flawless 100% scrum win rate across 12 scrums and generating 269 post-contact meters. This heavy attrition forced the Wallabies into a staggering total of 233 tackles made, leaving the Australian defensive line visibly gassed during critical fourth-quarter exchanges.
What Next?
By securing the draw, Australia successfully retains the Puma Trophy, providing a silver lining to an otherwise frustrating outing. However, coach Les Kiss faces an immediate selection headache with Carter Gordon suffering a recurring calf injury that forced tactical re-shuffling at flyhalf. Both squads now turn their focus to the remaining Rugby Championship fixtures(oh thats right they aren’t on officially), with Australia needing to refine their game management before facing top-tier Southern Hemisphere heavyweights. The Wallabies take on the Springboks in Perth, hoping to pounce on a tired Springboks team.
Scorers List
Argentina 28
- Tries: Pablo Matera (35, 63), Ignacio Mendy (38), Ignacio Ruiz (54)
- Conversions: Santiago Carreras (35, 39, 55, 64)
- Penalties: None
- Yellow Cards: Franco Molina (26), Lucio Cinti (67), Santiago Carreras (69)
Australia 28
- Tries: Harry Wilson (19), Max Jorgensen (27), Fraser McReight (47), Penalty Try (69)
- Conversions: Ryan Lonergan (20, 28, 51)
- Penalties: None
- Yellow Cards: Jeremy Williams (32)
And in breaking news, Carter has a broken leg – at least we have moved on from soft tissue injuries.
Bugger. That is breaking news
And Savea out with a dislocated shoulder, may miss the Bledisloe
Bloody hell
The poor bugger has not had a good run.
Tough game, but we came away with the trophy.
Sadly Doleman doesn’t ever allow the game to flow. Not criticising any of his decisions, just an observation.
For those saying we blew it in the last 15 minutes, this ignores two things:
On the substitutions, why do coaches feel a need to swap 10’s (or 9s for that matter) when the game is going ok?
I believe that replacement was based solely on Kiss not thinking Donaldson would land a difficult penalty if the chance arose.
Am I behind the times believing once replaced a player can’t come back on except for a head injury?
No idea why he replaced Donno, but doubt it was down to goalkicking – only because Carter is not a first (or second) choice goalkicker.
You are 100% right that once replaced they can’t come back on (except for HIA or a frontrower). Clearly Joe couldn’t know that Carter was going to break his leg, but it still meant we didn’t have a flyhalf on the field for the last 10 minutes.
“ Sadly Doleman doesn’t ever allow the game to flow.”
Look at all those phases, about 20 at each end, in the last 10 minutes. Yep he let it flow that’s for sure. Didn’t want to give either attacking team a penalty
Damed if he does Damed if he does not
He’s a Kiwi, so clearly he must be a great referee…just can’t remember a game he has refereed that has been a good watch.
Yes rarely is there a good ref i get it
Reckon most Aussie fans would agree Wayne Barnes was a good ref. Would the kiwis agree? Oh that’s right
Sarge you Very bitter these days
Dropping truth bombs 🫳
Not giving genuine penalties and letting it flow are two different things.
I can’t think of a game he has reffed that has been good to watch.
Dolman does my head in sometimes.
What was with the endless replays and checking of forward passes after Lonergan stepped out leading to that non try?
The touchie put his flag up, the Pumas stopped, the Wallabies stopped, only the ref didn’t seem to notice.
I think he set a new record for short arms at scrums,
Would have been nice if he was as pedantic during that last few minutes, guys playing the ball on the ground, guys sealing off etc.
It was almost as if he decide “ no penalties to either team unless they’re within 35 meters of their own line.
I watched the game again wallaby’s played beautifully and the argies played poorly infringing every couple minutes,
Where was the ref from he starved our lads at least 25 points out there he must be reported to world rugby.
It’s safe to say we are in wc semis and will take out the world cup
Master plan wich i concur it’s a masterpiece of coaching dont feed the backs then certain parties out there can’t farcanal it up keep it in the forwards.
Well done to wallaby’s I see a major step forward now it’s great times ahead
Are you a bit sad after the AB game farcey? Hopefully complaining about the WBs and their fans will cheer you up
Nah it was expected sarge
Expected? but I recall you tipping New Zealand and Argentina, how’s that shaping up. (But dementia runs in my family)
That’s how it works Einstein you tip/pick who you think will win sure i picked nz by 1 point obviously not confident.
I’ve said regularly if it 2 all its a pass mark moving fwd.
So what if I got it wrong…argies might of won by 1 or 3 nz by 1 a 50 % chance of going the other way.
And it didn’t take ewes long to start blaming the ref again hilarious how that works
“it didn’t take ewes long to start blaming the ref again hilarious how that works”
Hilarious?
Honestly Farcs …laughter? Or is it just a supercilious smirk?
Ken are we the only ones that see a pattern of old of the roar days, win 4 matches on the trot hardly a negative comment on the officials. The road is only going to become steeper i have a prediction the Floodgates will surely open.
I wish jacko was still around Ken its a lonely road for me at times,
I said from the start if it’s 2 each its a pass, I havnt watched the last 2 boks games.who do boks play after nz
They quit while they’re ahead. Next week last ever, then they’re off to the Strait of Hormuz for the real greatest rivalry , or maybe Soi Cowboy for the greatest ribaldry
In English please Myrtle
Two Gospels:
Never kick to the open side in defense
and
Come up fast in defense
Williams and Skelton were very good vs Lions. Worth revisiting in Nations Cup. Arguably underpinned the victory.
I appreciate the big love for Canham so maybe he gets a run with Skelton as well.
If the WBs are to make WC semis then I think they need to beat 2 NH teams (definitelyEngland). Skelton is a feared beast up there.
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Skelton won’t be playing the the Nations Cup. Still recovering from his Achilles done in March. The best we have here is LSL or Amatesero, and both are well short of Will. Wonder if there is any thought of bringing in Izack Rodda.
We have to toughen up somewhere between now and two weeks..Not good enough it’s a two week tour yes it was cold miserable conditions that we don’t like only kiwis and sheep do and usually at the same time but seriously guys,there’s playing off the cuff there’s playing with confidence but that was lackluster no commitment to doing the basics correctly and that backrow isn’t our best and Williams is a sub that’s it..No go forward once again. Static ball backs not deep enough aimless kicking non dominant tackles..Some twit tried to tell me Wilson compliments Mcreight pilfering well he didn’t get one so that says alot we lost our first lineout which set the tone for the whole day..It’s not JAS or Wrights doing although they must do better with the scraps there getting, forwards need front foot ball and 100% set piece rate ..Bring in Cale as I’ve said lineout secure he can roam like Wilson and Hooper Canham Frazer Bobby..it’s staring Les right in the face and he goes back too the plodder..
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I watched it live you clown..I fell to sleep after it sorry for that mate I watched black fools vs Boks to..Im old I need sleep.
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You’ll find that McReight has never had much success with pilfers when Doleman has the whistle. So, I’d say he parked that bit of his game & concentrated more on tackling looking at those numbers he racked up.
Only twits don’t bother to read the ref that’s in charge.
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You won’t mention your kiwi mate Doleman will you…He is a dead set joke to try and flow a game.
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Give the Argies some respect.
There only so much rugby you can play when you’re a wee bit caught up with ball chucking, gridiron clean outs* and soccer tears.
*Sharp eyed Jimmy Doleman caught Williams off his feet, while missing the off the ball gridiron play of the Argies winger on an unattached Suaalii that preceded the WB foul.
For the record, I believe that WBs are a long way from RWC contenders at the minute.
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AI ? Nothing intelligent about you artificial or not it’s absent ..
I thought the ref was good and clear no one else complained in comments which was a shock but wallaby’s had nose in front so thats why
Farcs, I don’t know why you believe your couch to be less impotent than anyone else’s but here we are.
Blind Freddie can see that Oz rugby has had structural/cultural problems since before we won our second World Cup.
Part of it is the NRL siphon, fuelled by government’s gambling policy which empowers the code most similar and most parasitic on our organic talent, eyeballs, and money.
But here we are.
We agree about the folly of Eddiegate and HammerToss that we recently engaged in.
But here we are.
Wish kiwi referees were as good as Angus, and the ref the ‘Greatest Rivalry’ got last night. But here we are.
If you have a magic couch, float it over bro.
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Argentina nearly drew with the Boks about a month ago it was very controversial ending .I thought Gardiner was incorrect blowing it up so quickly but anyways there a spoiling type team and we got suckered into the game it’s not our game..we got lucky for a draw in the end..
His missus used the exact same quote.. Said there couch on a sat night has been impotent for decades..til she puts on the soothing sounds of sheep feeding in the morning grass..than old kiwi is ready to rip.
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She must be blind..
Antonio, if you’re gunna be rude, be funny at least.
I don’t agree with Farc’s position on a lot of Oz critique, but I also don’t believe that he deserves insult.
And I dearly wish you’d learn to spell.
Just trying to fit in..
Are you a Kiwi?
I was once but working wa over 30 years wich was longer than the time I was in nz. In that same time my home base has been indo with Balinese family
That explains the farcan ramblings.
Would love to know the ball in play time in the last 15 mins of the game. Don’t get me wrong, we had plenty of chances (for his 50th test, Wright was horrendous) but can we talk about the blatant time wasting by Argentina? The referee and co were so happy just to let them peel time off the clock.
Even in the first half, Doleman blows the scrum up on the engage then tries to hurry up the reset.
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Lets not paper over it. The unbeaten run is tarnished. A draw against an already weakened Pumas, down to 13 for 15 minutes. Lack of game control and a poor showing by several not good enough.
Wright is off form. Someone else needs a run. His mistakes will be very costly.
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Wilson played well but made a lot of poor captaincy decisions.
With a lock given a yc he should be taking lineouts and mauls.
With arg down to 13, 2 backs off, he should be directing the team to run it wide , and switch back not play it in the forwards.
Agree about Wright, JAS to F/B for me.
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Spot on Peter.
”Wilson played well but made a lot of poor captaincy decisions.
With a lock given a yc he should be taking lineouts and mauls.”
If Harry is not there as our best 8, he’s there as our incumbent captain.
Kiss has some surgery to execute before the heavyweights come.
Best back row, and
Best back three should be top priority.
Surgery now, please.
Cale showed his worth when on,one jackal one lineout our throw one lineout there throw..need ball carriers thru the middle desperately so it’s LSL Canham or Hooper Canham Cale 6 Bobby 8..that’s your backrow that gets over gainline and wins lineouts our throw some of there’s..
I thought Harry had a cracker. Personally he defended well, ran hard and defused a key argie maul
From a captaincy perspective I was howling for them to take the 3 from the penalty right in front in the first half. They went for the try and earned a yc and I was happy to be proven wrong. I thought that was pretty brave captaincy
I agree with a lock in the bin you should be looking to scrum and lineout. I felt like it was a coaching decision to tap close penalties where previously we have kicked for the corner. Fair enough avoiding a scrum and Doleman lucky dip
As for playing wide to maximise the 15 on 13 well that requires a leader/distributor in the backs and by replacing Donno early and then Gordon getting injured we were caught short. For me that’s a coaching fail not so much a captaincy fail
I’m also increasingly unimpressed with Nasser. Not sure if BPA was injured but I just find Nasser to be ambling around and not contributing. His failed cleanout on Matera – yes not the easiest to remove – was impactful. Hopefully Faesler is back soon
“ I’m also increasingly unimpressed with Nasser. Not sure if BPA was injured but I just find Nasser to be ambling around and not contributing”
As an ex outside back, I’m not one to notice a front rower dialling it in. But Nasser did in this one on at least 2 occasions that I saw.
I haven’t seen much from him so far in his career. Seems to lack size or X factor. Seems a bit journeyman. I’m hoping to be proved wrong
I was looking forward to watching him develop when he switched to hooker, but sadly hasn’t come on like I hoped he would.
Still think our top four hookers (when fit) for the RWC should be BPA, Pollard, Faessler and Latu.
Agree right up to Latu
Who would be your fourth?? This is where it drops off unfortunately.
Bring back Porecki? It’s probably Nasser but it’s a drop down for sure. Latu, Uelese, Faingiaa have all had their issues stepping up at test level
Nic Dolly is another…
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Puma trophy
Vuvale Bowl (won 6/7/25)
James Bevsn (won 17/11/24)
Ella Mobbs (won 9/11/24 lost1/11/25)
“Are I the only one still seeing JAS as a non event and costing us 10 to 15 points a game once again where was he”
Possibly, yes. Ironic, since I’m guessing that it wasn’t your 6 mill that we tipped into his pocket. Let it go bro.
Personally, I’d like to see Joey share the 15 with Tom until Tom finds his post rehab mojo.
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Wrights problems run deeper than rehab. It’s more between the ears and inside the left chest.
If you played JAS at his best position at 15 it would help.
Henry at 12 and Ikitau at 13 would be much better.
That right there…^
PeterK: Tom Wright is not the same after his leg injury. He looks fat and slower than before. I would drop him and put JAS at fullback (said wing in another post)
Just more sinking the boot into the Wallabies. Little brother syndrome
Farcs, with respect, the Sarge’s point might be worth attention.
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The player ratings will be interesting. I can’t see too many getting above a 6
So far looking like Wrocks will be the only one with a 7
-7 that is
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The backs rarely saw the ball. If they continue with this game plan the ABs and the Boks will put 40+ on them
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Dreadful play against 13 men. Only consolation is a series win – well done. However the Springboks live on a different planet and I am fearful of our prospects. Defense still too slow coming up.
It’s hard for anyone to compete with the Boks with the juice they’re on.
Typo in our favour, will it go in the record books like that?
I wish. My googlebot is giving my gyp today, and I am trying to get out the door haha
Don’t forget you’re on a honeymoon
Officially finished yesterday, catching up on work now sadly, with the occasional rugby.
Still away but, so enjoying Pho and Yum Cha for lunch and dinner
D
Funniest part is I have sent to socials, so will get hammered. Oh well, at least comment count will be up
Pretty good effort…especially upfront…Is rugby turning into a forwards game for us?
Wingers only get the ball when they go looking for it or it is kicked to them. JAS was MIA but Len must take some heat for that. I still think they are the wrong way around. Rocks is becoming annoying…