The Pumas’ pulsating brand of rugby has married their traditional power in the pack with a quick, counter-attacking backline that is scintillating to watch and difficult to overcome. But here are four ways Wales can stop the Pumas on match day.
1. Get early points on the board
Argentina are sometimes slow starters. Indeed, the first 10 minutes against Japan were one-way traffic as the Brave Blossoms tested the Pumas defence with a series of attacks. Japan came away from this period of sustained pressure with only one Yu Tamura penalty to show for their efforts though and once they got their offloading game going, the Pumas were unstoppable. While Argentina faced a very inexperienced Japan side, Wales’ most recent outing was a rip-roaring Test of extraordinary intensity against the Wallabies. If that intensity can be carried into the opening 10 minutes against Argentina and points put on the board, then Argentina could struggle to get back into the game.
2. Don’t over-commit in contact
First up defence is crucial in every Test, of course, but Argentina’s quick, offloading style of play can wreak havoc with even the most seasoned opposition. The Pumas’ first try at the weekend came from a counter-attack after a thumping Japan tackle in midfield dragged too many of their players towards the contact area. The Pumas turned the ball over and spun it rapidly to the right; Japan’s defence was unable to regroup in time and Matias Moroni touched down for the first of his two tries. Wales need to avoid getting unnecessarily sucked into the contact zone even when attacking, as losing possession on the front foot to the Pumas can be devastating. Defence needs to be able to drift wide and not allow men to rush up alone, or they will be vulnerable to the offload.
3. Exploit the gaps
Argentina can leave gaps in their defence, a result of their intense style of pressuring the opposition backline. When defending against forwards, Argentina tend to move towards the ball carrier more slowly, but if their opposition send the ball wide, the Pumas’ three-quarters and back row rush forwards in an attempt to force a quick turnover and unleash their counter-attack. This can be very effective, but it also sometimes exposes the Pumas’ back-line to inside passes from the man taking contact. If Wales can get strike runners coming onto the inside shoulder in midfield, there’s a good chance of breaking the gainline before the defence can adjust.
4. Kick and chase is key
Argentina love to run from deep and a loose kicking game will allow the Pumas’ back three to have a field day. Whoever plays in Wales’ back three, supported by the back row, must orchestrate the kick-chase and smother the Pumas’ counter-attacking style. There could also be opportunities to kick in low behind the advancing Argentina backline, as Australia showed in the Rugby Championship. Anything too long without a proper chase, though, will just invite pressure.
- Tickets are still available to see Wales take on Argentina this Saturday at www.wru.wales/tickets – starting from only £20!
