Rugby Championship: Wallabies Comeback Stuns Pumas 28-24
The Wallabies secured a thrilling 28-24 win over Argentina in the Rugby Championship, with Angus Bell scoring the winning try six minutes after the final hooter.
"Congrats to Australia, they took their opportunities. But I think that in the second half, we gave away a lot of penalties...”
The Wallabies staged an incredible comeback, scoring 21 unanswered points in the second half to defeat Argentina 28-24 in a thrilling Rugby Championship match held at the Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville. Angus Bell scored the winning try six minutes after the final hooter, securing a dramatic victory for the hosts.
Argentina took control of the match in the first half, with Bautista Delguy and Mateo Carreras scoring tries, while Santi Carreras added three penalties to give the Pumas a 21-7 lead at halftime. The Wallabies struggled to find their footing, but they managed to score a try through Nic White. Despite the deficit, the Wallabies showed resilience and determination.
The Wallabies' fortunes changed dramatically in the second half, with Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii scoring two tries to bring his team back into contention. Tom Lynagh's conversions and a penalty from Juan Cruz Mallia for Argentina set up a nail-biting finish. With the clock ticking down, the Wallabies pushed hard, and Angus Bell's late try sealed the win for Australia.
The Wallabies staged a remarkable comeback to defeat the Pumas, with centre Joseph Suaalii scoring a brace of tries to level the score. However, Pumas fullback Juan Cruz Mallia broke the deadlock with a penalty a minute from time, putting the visitors ahead. The Wallabies opted not to go for goal on three separate occasions, but their patience paid off when replacement prop Bell scored the winning try from close range.
FT | Hard earned 🔥#Wallabies pic.twitter.com/kcBONuEAaA
— Wallabies (@wallabies) September 6, 2025
Wallabies captain Harry Wilson praised his team's resilience, saying, “Full credit to the team, we could have gone for goal there and taken the draw.” Wilson's comments highlighted the team's determination to secure a win, despite the opportunity to settle for a draw. The Wallabies' victory marked their third win in their last four Tests, showcasing their growing momentum in the competition.
“It was a tough game, but everyone believed that we could finish the job. And if boys want to win a game, we may as well back them.
“Very proud of the boys, we weren't at our best today, but to find a way to get a win against such a high-quality opposition is a real credit to them.”
Australia has taken the top spot in the Rugby Championship standings after their thrilling win against Argentina. The team is currently leading with 5 points. New Zealand is close behind with 6 points, having played 2 matches with 1 win and 1 loss. South Africa has 4 points, with 1 win and 1 loss in their 2 matches. Argentina has 5 points, thanks to a losing bonus point in their match against Australia, where they earned 1 point for losing by fewer than 7 points or scoring 4 tries.
Pumas skipper Julian Montoya wasn't impressed with his team's performance, saying, “It was far from a good performance, in my opinion.” Despite the loss, Argentina showed resilience and earned a bonus point, which could prove crucial in the championship standings. This bonus point reflects their determination and fighting spirit, even in the face of adversity.
“Congrats to Australia, they took their opportunities. But I think that in the second half, we gave away a lot of penalties that we can control, like offside, and then we gave them position pretty easy.”
First-Half Action
The Pumas dominated the first half, with fly-half Santi Carreras giving them an early 6-0 lead from the kicking tee. Wallabies prop Taniela Tupou was penalized twice for no-arm tackles, allowing Carreras to capitalize and put points on the board. However, the home side fought back, with the Wallabies scoring their first try in the 23rd minute. A coordinated effort from Harry Wilson and Nick Frost off an attacking lineout created space for scrumhalf Nic White to score from close range.
Argentina quickly regained momentum with a 15-point scoring spree in just seven minutes, significantly extending their lead. Bautista Delguy and Mateo Carreras scored impressive tries from smooth backline moves off scrums, showcasing the Pumas' attacking prowess. Santi Carreras added a third penalty four minutes before halftime, further solidifying Argentina's advantage. The Wallabies' discipline was a concern, having conceded eight penalties in the first half, and they knew they needed to tighten up if they wanted to mount a comeback.
The Wallabies came out strong after the break, with Joseph Suaalii scoring a try from an offload by centre partner Len Ikitau, reducing the deficit to 21-14. The game became a thrilling back-and-forth affair, with momentum swinging between both teams. However, the Pumas' discipline issues resurfaced, and Mateo Carreras was sent to the sin bin for repeated team offenses in the 62nd minute.
Just a minute after Carreras' sin bin stint began, the Wallabies capitalized on the advantage. Suaalii broke through tackles to score his second try, and replacement fly-half James O'Connor added the extras to level the scores. The match was now poised for a dramatic finish, with both teams giving their all in pursuit of victory.
Upcoming Match
Later on Saturday, New Zealand will face off against South Africa in Auckland, a match that will significantly impact the standings. The outcome of this match will determine which team takes the lead or maintains their current position. Given the competitive nature of the Rugby Championship, every point counts, and both teams will be looking to secure a win.
No comments:
Leave comment here