England`s Red Roses emerged victorious in a hard-fought Test match against Argentina`s Los Pumas, securing a 22-17 win decided in the dying moments. The match offered a stark contrast to the previous encounter, demonstrating Argentina`s tactical shift under coach Filipe Contepomi, though ultimately falling short of changing the series outcome.
The game kicked off with England showing early intent. A well-executed move saw George Ford`s astute kick finding Seb Atkinson, who finished clinically in the corner to open the scoring. Argentina, however, quickly responded, not with a try, but a precise penalty goal from Santi Carreras to narrow the gap.
Midway through the first half, England faced a challenge when flanker Ben Curry received a yellow card. Los Pumas capitalised on the numerical advantage, with winger Lucio Cinti crossing the whitewash for their first try, converted by Carreras. Despite the on-field personnel changes and the notable absence of hooker Jamie George (called up to the Lions but present pitch-side offering moral support), England remained in contention. The first half concluded following an exchange of penalties and conversions, leaving the score finely balanced at 17-14 in favour of Argentina, setting the stage for a gripping second forty minutes.
After the interval, Argentina seemingly opted for a pragmatic, defensively-minded approach – what some might playfully dub the “rugby bus.” Their strategy appeared focused on containing England within their own half and using tactical kicks to relieve pressure and gain territory. This led to a period of play concentrated primarily in Argentina`s territory, with England probing the determined defensive lines. George Ford managed to add three points with a successful penalty, chipping away at Argentina`s lead and bringing England within one point.
The second half also saw veteran back-rower Pablo Matera reach a significant milestone, becoming Argentina`s most-capped player with his 111th appearance. However, his landmark match was unfortunately marred by a yellow card for foul play. After serving his time in the sin bin, Matera did not return to the field, leaving Los Pumas without one of their key leaders as they continued to employ their determined defensive “bus” formation, making England work hard for every inch.
Despite Argentina`s resolute efforts to protect their slender lead and force a stalemate, England found the crucial breakthrough. With the clock winding down and the score at 17-15, replacement scrum-half Jack van Poortvliet spotted an opportunity from a ruck close to the line and darted over for the match-winning try in the 79th minute. The conversion was missed, but the score moved to 22-17, effectively sealing a dramatic victory for the Red Roses.
The final score of 22-17 reflected a contest far tighter and more competitive than the previous week`s encounter, highlighting Argentina`s improved defensive organisation. While Los Pumas` strategy kept them in the fight until the bitter end, England`s persistence, and a moment of late individual brilliance from van Poortvliet, ultimately proved the difference in securing the series victory.
Rupert Caldwell 
Tristan Blackwood