What's happening
Argentina - Romania

October 22 Match

WHAT'S HAPPENING? (posted 22nd October 2003)
Sydney's Aussie Stadium was the arena for the Argentina Romania game last night. The Argentinians walloped Romania 50-3. The five points Argentina collects for the game - 4 for the win and a bonus point - puts them ahead of Australia on the points table, but Wallaby fans needn't fret too much as yet since the Pumas have played one more game than us :)

It took almost ten minutes of the game for the first points to be scored, and a 7-0 lead was clocked up by Argentina when Martin Gaitan went over the try line and Miranda converted. The Pumas scored two more tries in the first half with their fullback Roncero and Contepomi both notching up five pointers, which Juan Fernandez Miranda successfully slotted for conversions along with a penalty goal kick which he also potted for the Pumas. The half time score was 24-0 in favour of the Argentinians.

The second half had barely gotten underway when Juan's brother Nicolas scored a charge down try giving the Pumas the precious bonus point! His brother continued his successful conversion work rate for the game. The Romanians didn't give up though and finally got some points on the board when Ionut Tofan kicked a penalty goal successfully. Still, the Romanians weren't exactly catching up in a hurry!

The Puma's forward pack showed strength throughout and game and were rewarded with a push over try to Pablo Bouza taking the score 43-3.

And, things weren't getting any better for the Romanians on the scoreboard - Roncero scoring for the second time in the game in the sixty sixth minute - the conversion taking the score to 50-3. Despite the score line, the match wasn't as one sided as it may appear. The Romanians really had a go at the Argentinians, but were unable to capitalise on their opportunities. The Argentinians, resting a lot of their main players, hardly played a great game of rugby - making errors and wild throws and what not. The important thing for the Pumas though is that they won and secured 5 points for their team in the process. Romania can slot that one behind them now, and get on with their next match - against Namibia in Launceston in a week's time. Here's hoping that the Romanians and Namibians can have a good match down there in Tassie. Argentina take on Ireland in Adelaide this Sunday - us Aussies will be watching with interest no doubt!