MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Los Pumas snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

Lucas Gonzalez try against all odds

No one would relish a match against the host nation of the Rugby World Cup, but Argentina, unless the improbable happens next weekend, will face the “All Blacks” in the quarter-finals on 9th October.

With just seven minutes away from a 12-6 defeat, substitute winger Lucas Gonzalez Amorosino beat four defenders from 35 metres in a deft display of rugby prowess to score the most important try of the tournament so far and in doing so secured a win against Scotland and an almost certain place in the next round. His touch-down snatched victory for Argentina by 13 points to 12 in a grinding battle that was made even more difficult by the driving Wellington rain. Both teams knew before the start that victory was the only option if they were to progress in the competition and like a gladiatorial epic the game produced all the twists and turns, excitement and passion worthy of any confrontation of times past. To say that both teams put everything in to the game would be an understatement. In what was the grittiest match of the tournament so far, Argentina overcame the weather, injuries and their determined opposition to rightfully claim the four points needed to put them second in Pool B behind the England team.

And so unless Argentina lose to Georgia, which is unlikely, and Scotland beat England whilst scoring at least four tries, even more unlikely, then Argentina progress to the quarter-final stage. And with that promotion unfortunately comes the ultimate challenge on 9th October, the requirement to beat the host nation New Zealand. Although not a new phenomenon to Los Pumas; in the last world cup they beat the host nation France, not once but twice, this time it will be a nation on top form and with that well known kiwi passion that has already devastated all who have stood in their way so far. If they make it through that encounter then Australia or South Africa awaits them in the semis.

The only way they can meet England again in the competition is either the final or the 3rd place play-off. Hopefully see you on the 23rd October.

Neil Russell - SeAled PR - Stanley