Just two weeks removed from picking up a much-needed victory over the Springboks at Ellis Park, Ian Foster’s All Blacks have once again slipped to a historic loss.
Led by former Wallabies boss Michael Cheika, Argentina’s Los Pumas picked up their first ever victory on Kiwi soil in a dominant display.
New Zealand did the majority of the try scoring but their discipline was once again woeful as they kept the visitors in the game with very kickable opportunities.
Pumas winger Emiliano Boffelli punished the All Blacks slotting seven from seven from the kicking tee.
Once again, the All Blacks were second best in the physical stakes as the Pumas passionate defence turned them backwards time and again.
Based on the Springboks run of form, one has to question just how relevant the All-Blacks victory was. The Boks have already been on the receiving end of a historic loss themselves as they slipped to a first ever home victory to Wales.
This morning’s thumping at the hands of the Wallabies may just be an indicator that the Springboks are in fact a rather average side too.
Ian Foster will no doubt be under severe pressure again this week despite the New Zealand Rugby Union giving him their backing through to the World Cup.
Losing three out of four home tests this season for the All Blacks is unacceptable by their high standards.
Perhaps more importantly though will be the confidence that the Northern hemisphere sides will carry into the World Cup. Key contenders Ireland, England and France will head into the tournament knowing that all four of the southern hemisphere giants are certainly beatable.
For the Pumas this historic victory is a huge landmark for Michael Cheika and his squad as they hold onto top spot on the table as they set themselves up for a real shot at a first ever Rugby Championship title.
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