International Third Test Preview: Argentina Vs. Scotland
International Third Test Preview: Argentina Vs. Scotland
After a shocking loss, Scotland reasserted themselves against in the second test match against Los Pumas. Now, the series heads to Santiago del Estero.
With two rugged matches under the belt, it should be another turbulent affair when Scotland takes on Argentina for the third and final test of the summer series.
Here's everything you need to know about the July 16 match between Argentina and Scotland.
Where: Estadio Unico Madre de Ciudades, Santiago del Estero, Argentina
The lowdown: It was a party July 2 in Argentina after Los Pumas beat Scotland at home for the first time since 2008 and the first time overall since 2011, but Scotland responded from the slip-up in kind with a dominant 29-6 victory in the rematch in Salta.
Questions on just how good Scotland could be without its top stars in Stuart Hogg and Finn Russell—who both weren’t selected for the tour to coach Gregor Townsend’s squad due to rest—were answered emphatically as the Scots pummeled the Argentines this past weekend. The Scottish team held Argentina try-less while scoring four of their own through Hamish Watson, Mark Bennett, Matt Fagerson and Sam Johnson.
Scotland on the board again carving up the Argentinian defense! - 15 -5 with alot of time to play. Watch Here - https://t.co/oOxXZCFnLs pic.twitter.com/DPMQL08OVh
— FloRugby (@FloRugby) July 9, 2022
After a dream debut for recently-appointed Argentina boss Michael Cheika in the first test in San Salvador, Saturday’s result showed that there’s still work to be done for South America’s top side. Specifically, the team had a try from Guido Petti taken away due to a forward pass in the buildup, and Santiago Carreras missed out on a near-certain try due to a fumbling of the ball following pressure from Scotland’s defense.
Being defeated in a home series wouldn’t be a good look for Los Pumas ahead of The Rugby Championship starting next month—where New Zealand, South Africa and Australia loom—so it’ll be to Cheika’s squad to get a rebound win in the tour finale in Santiago del Estero.