Wallabies draw with Argentina after late Pumas yellow cards
The Wallabies concluded their two-Test series in Argentina with a 28-28 draw in Mendoza, denying them a historic sweep on Argentine soil. Despite leading early and having a numerical advantage late in the match, Australia could not secure a victory against a 13-man Pumas side.
The draw extends Australia’s unbeaten run to five matches, marking their longest streak since 2021, and secures their first-ever series win in Argentina. However, the team expressed disappointment with the outcome, particularly after failing to capitalise on opportunities in the final minutes.
Missed Opportunities in Mendoza
Australia started strongly, with Harry Wilson scoring the opening try in the 22nd minute, followed by Max Jorgensen extending the lead to 14-0. However, Argentina responded with tries from Pablo Matera and Justo Piccardo Mendy, levelling the score at 14-14 by halftime.
The Wallabies regained the lead early in the second half through Fraser McReight, with Ryan Lonergan’s conversion restoring a seven-point advantage. Argentina, however, fought back again, with Ignacio Ruiz levelling the scores before Matera scored his second try, putting the Pumas ahead 28-21.
The match took a dramatic turn when Lucio Cinti received a yellow card, and Argentina were further reduced to 13 players after a deliberate knockdown. This infringement resulted in a penalty try for Australia, levelling the score at 28-28 and providing the Wallabies with a prime opportunity to win.
Despite threatening late in the game, including a dangerous run by Jorgensen, a crucial knock-on in the final two minutes ended Australia’s attack. The Pumas managed to hold on, with Nicolás Roger kicking the ball into touch to end the match in a draw.
Coach and Captain Reflect on Performance
Wallabies captain Harry Wilson acknowledged the team’s disappointment, stating, “The boys were hurting with the result. We really wanted to win that, and there’s a lot of disappointment.” He also noted Argentina’s effective play in the final minutes, particularly in managing the conditions while short on players.
Head coach Les Kiss expressed mixed feelings about the draw, acknowledging that while the team achieved its goal of winning the series, there are areas for improvement. “The boys are a little bit disappointed that they just didn’t go on with it for sure,” Kiss said. He highlighted the need to improve game management and decision-making, particularly in key moments that allowed Argentina to stay in the game.
Kiss pointed to several instances of poor execution, including a knock-on from the kick-off by Filipo Daugunu and a wild end to the first half from fullback Tom Wright, who made a poor kicking option and stepped out of bounds during a clearing kick. Scrumhalf Ryan Lonergan also had a clearing kick charged down in the second half, leading to an Argentine try.
Injury Concerns and Future Outlook
The match also saw injury concerns for the Wallabies. Carter Gordon was unable to finish the game, clutching his leg after a tackle. Kiss confirmed the injury was impact-related but stated the severity would not be known until after a scan. Ben Donaldson and Gordon had been rotating at fly-half due to head injury assessments during the match.
The Wallabies now have a three-week break before their next match against the Springboks in Perth. Wilson hopes that bringing home the series trophy will provide momentum and confidence for the team as they prepare to face the reigning world champions.
Kiss emphasised the importance of addressing wastefulness and improving decision-making with the ball, particularly in managing the game away from their own third of the pitch. He praised the team’s defensive effort, including improved line speed and aggression, but stressed that these efforts would be undermined without better ball management. The team will look to refine these aspects before their next fixture against the Springboks.
The draw in Mendoza marks the end of Australia’s four-match winning streak.
Source: theguardian.com
