The Rugby Championship, Round 3
and 
Yarrow Stadium, New Plymouth, New Zealand
Another interesting game that sought to keep the spectators on the edge of their seats for most of the game. NZ came out fighting strong scoring the first try within 7 minutes and continued to put points on the board throughout the first half. However, that didn't stop Argentina firing back relentlessly, kicking two penalty goals and a field goal and then finally taking the lead with a try right on half time (16-15) .
The second half started much like the first half ended with the Pumas putting the AB's on the back foot and was able to not only convert that pressure into two penalty goals but also gain an advantage with Beaudan Barrett being yellow carded, due to repeat infringements by the New Zealand team, at the 49th minute.
Nevertheless, even with one man down NZ continued to build upon each phase and like we have seen so many times before Argentina could not keep up with the pace. This is an area that the Pumas really need to concentrate on moving forward, as we all know, this is a game of 80 minutes, not 50 and the All Blacks will not stop hunting till that final whistle is blown.
With 3 tries and a penalty goal in the last 30 minutes, the All Blacks take the win leaving a final score that does not correctly portrait how close the game really was. The AB's stay undefeated and remain at the top of the leaderboard.
What are your thoughts? Did you enjoy the game? Let me know in the comments below.
