The All Blacks managed a win as expected over the Pumas, but it was far from convincing. The weather played a big part here as it rained for about 70% of the match. This contributed to the large amount of handling errors and lack of running.

The end result of 28 – 13 for the All Blacks and no bonus points, favoured the Springboks more over this past weekend, as they now top the Log with 1 point more than the All Blacks. Argentina still find themselves in third place ahead of struggling Australia and with their next match in Australia will most probably back themselves for a win.

In the early stages of the match it did seem that the Pumas was going to take this down to the wire especially after a early try, after a mistake from the All Black debutant Francis Saili. Saili bounced back and did not perform too badly in his first outing. The Pumas made a hassle of themselves at the break down points and their defense was spot on.

There were still positives for both sides to take out of this match.

Players who stood out in this match were Steven Luatua and Israel Dagg for the All Blacks and Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe and Juan Martin Hernandez for the Pumas.

Both fullbacks were great under the high ball in extremely bad conditions. Steven Luatua played well defensively and also carried the ball over the advantage line time and time again. Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe made his presence felt, specially at breakdown points and his presence on defense.

Overall

6.5 Out of 10 / 5 Out of 10

The All Blacks receive a 6.5/10 as they did what was expected from them, but due to the bad weather never played the game they are so well- known for and the weather made things difficult for try-scoring rugby.

The Puma’s receive a 5/10 as they gave the All Blacks an unexpected game, but still do not look like a side who can over-run the top dogs in world rugby on a regular basis. In addition they still have the tendency to play the man and not the ball.