Ireland Edges Past Argentina: No Second-Half Points in Thrilling Autumn Nations Victory

Ireland‘s head coach expressed disappointment over the team’s lackluster performance in the recent loss to New Zealand. Despite a strong first half against Argentina, Ireland struggled in the second half, leading to a tense finish at the Aviva Stadium.

Argentina remains without a win in Ireland after 12 attempts. Coach Felipe Contepomi noted that his Pumas team is improving but faced challenges after a long season.

In the first half, Ireland scored three tries from Jack Crowley, Mack Hansen, and Joe McCarthy. They also showcased strong defense just before halftime, maintaining a 22-9 lead. However, Ireland failed to add points in the second half, relying on their defense to hold onto the win.

Discipline continued to be a major issue for Ireland, as they received two yellow cards and conceded 13 penalties, mirroring their previous match’s performance.

Jack Crowley played a key role in the first half, effectively leading the attack alongside Robbie Henshaw, who justified his selection. Locks Joe McCarthy and James Ryan delivered strong performances, while Tadhg Beirne and Josh van der Flier excelled in the back row.

Young players Sam Prendergast and Thomas Clarkson made their international debuts, with Cian Healy receiving applause as he equaled Brian O’Driscoll’s record for most caps by an Irish player.

Argentina nearly scored early, but Matias Moroni’s try was disallowed due to a penalty. Ireland capitalized on this let-off and executed a well-planned move involving Jamison Gibson-Park and Rónan Kelleher, paving the way for Crowley’s first try.

Ireland led 22-9 at halftime, but Argentina’s Juan Cruz Mallia scored a converted try soon after the restart. They continued to pressure Ireland, with Albornoz narrowing the gap to 22-19.

Near the end, Ireland opted for a quick tap instead of taking three points. Argentina’s chances were dimmed when Francisco Gomez Kodela was sent off for a dangerous play. A late knock-on by Argentina allowed Ireland to escape with the win.

Final Team Lineups:

Ireland: H. Keenan; M. Hansen, G. Ringrose, R. Henshaw (J. Osborne 62), J. Lowe; J. Crowley (S. Prendergast 62), J. Gibson-Park (C. Casey 74); A. Porter, R. Kelleher (R. Herring 63), F. Bealham (T. Clarkson 53); J. McCarthy, J. Ryan (R. Baird 62) (P. O’Mahony 64); T. Beirne, J. van der Flier (Clarkson 24-29), C. Doris.

Argentina: J. Cruz Mallia; R. Isgro (S. Carreras 57), L. Cinti (J. Piccardo 59), M. Moroni, B. Delguy; T. Albornoz, G. Bertranou (G. Garcia 46); T. Gallo (I. Calles 21-35, 72), J. Montoya (capt) (I. Ruiz 22-33, 62), J. Sclavi (F. Gomez Kodela 52); G. Petti (F. Molina 52), P. Rubiolo; P. Matera (S. Grondona 62), J. M. Gonzalez, J. Oviedo.

Referee: P. Williams (New Zealand).