Under-strength England might have their work cut out for them when they face red hot Argentina at the Estadio Jorge Luis Hirschi in La Plata on Saturday in the first of their two-Test series.
To Win
Argentina | Draw | England
Handicap
Argentina | England
Felipe Contepomi’s free-running Los Pumas were absolutely sublime in downing the British & Irish Lions 28-24 in Dublin two weeks back and will be as motivated as ever ahead of the arrival of bitter foes England. Boosted by the performance of their seemingly untouchable halfback combo of Gonzalo Garcia and Tomas Albornoz, Argentina were on top in the air and at the gainline, and the challenge for them now will be to replicate that showing in front of their home support.
Argentina have a history of producing brilliant performances in one match before falling well off the pace in the next, though they will certainly be helped in that regard here with so many of England’s superstars currently on tour with the Lions Down Under. There is little doubt who the favourites are for this one, and it would be a massive shock – and even disappointment for some – if the Pumas don’t meet the standards they set for themselves a fortnight ago.
Following an England XV’s 24-26 loss to France XV in London, Steve Borthwick’s proper Test side will take to the pitch somewhat low on confidence. Despite some impressive displays from the likes of George Ford (who could become a Test centurion this weekend), Jamie George and Tom Willis, they were underwhelming on the whole and will again turn to these senior statesmen for direction in what should be a hostile environment at the Estadio Jorge Luis Hirschi.
England have claimed wins in four of the last five meetings between the sides, with their last head-to-head coming in Paris in the Bronze Final of the last World Cup. Circumstances are entirely different this time around however, and if Argentina’s forward pack hits England as hard as they did the Lions, Borthwick’s burgeoning Red Roses may find themselves wilting under the savage South American sun.
Verdict: Argentina on the minus
Argentina to maintain the momentum at home and make it 1-0 in the series.
