Australia finished strong. Led 19-10 at half-time by Argentina, the Wallabies dominated the second act head and shoulders to claim victory and offensive bonus on Saturday in Mendoza (41-26).
The Australians, behind for most of the match after conceding Pablo Matera’s first try (6th), went ahead for the first time in the 65th minute thanks to a penalty from Reece Hodge (27-26), while they were playing 15 against 14. Taking advantage of Alemanno’s temporary exclusion, Koroibete’s teammates scored a fourth try ten minutes from time through Fainga’a, before delivering the final blow in added time thanks to Ikitau (80th+5). This bonus victory allows them to settle at the top of the standings.
A thought for Hooper
” It’s a real proud moment for me and for the team, because we really wanted to do this for our fans, but also our captain, Hoops. We thought about him all day and we were playing for him tonight “Reacted James Slipper, substitute captain of the Wallabies.
As a reminder, Michael Hooper announced yesterday his withdrawal from the selection, citing personal problems. The two teams will meet next Saturday, still on Argentinian soil, for the second day of this competition bringing together the four best teams in the southern hemisphere.
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