Argentina have lost on all of their previous visits to Dublin - but they are equipped to punish any Irish frailties
Andy Farrell's decision to make only one change to Ireland's starting team sheet for the match against Argentina is a statement of faith in his players. Photograph: Henry Simpson/InphoIreland, there was almost blase expectations of another November clean sweep. Now, instead, that hope has been dashed and danger looms large over the horizon., and the flip side of being the biggest gunslinger in town is that it makes you the most prized target.
Whereas Argentina have beaten Les Bleus five times in France, England twice at Twickenham, and have won in Scotland four times and Wales three times, they have lost all 10 Tests in Dublin . So, while much of the spite from the Noughties has gone from this rivalry and Los Pumas still have to play France in Paris next Friday, beating Ireland would be the cherry on top to a landmark year.
They also have licence to, selectively, play from anywhere. Contepomi once started a contender for Leinster’s greatest ever try off turnover ball near his own line and last week Albornoz instigated and finished a pitch-length try in his 20-point haul.“He’s definitely gone back to their flair a little bit,” said Caelan Doris. “They’re playing with a lot more width. He is a pretty creative guy. Some of the lineout plays that he came up with, with us , were pretty inventive.
“Oviedo at number eight has been class as well. He’s a bit of a balance between Matera and Gonzalez in that he’s got good footwork, he’s a good athlete and he’s also extremely powerful and has the ability to play at the line as well.“Gonzalez, I’m just struck watching him by his physicality, unbelievable pace and he pops up in wider channels quite a bit. Matera, I’ve played against him before and he has a lot of power, a lot of determination in his carry.
Ireland head coach Andy Farrell and scrum coach John Fogarty during training on Thursday. Photograph: Tom Maher/Inpho
Argentina-Rugby Andy-Farrell Caelan-Doris
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