THE Telecom Fiji Warriors defeated Argentina XV 23-21 yesterday morning in their second match of their South American tour.
The Argentina side had 18 players who are listed for the World Cup and according to media reports from Argentina, this was the last of the friendlies for Argentinian rugby head coach Daniel Hourcade before the June international window.
The Warriors were the first to break the deadlock as centre John Stewart intercepted a pass from the Argentine attack and ran to score untouched in the fifth minute.
Halfback Serupepeli Vularika added the two extra points.
Argentina bounced back and drew level in the 10th minute through number eight Facundo Isa.
The Warriors sailed ahead with two penalties to fullback Tikilaci Vuibau.
On the brink of half-time, lock Savenaca Tabakanalagi scored for the Warriors to lead 18-7 at the break. The second half started with Argentina getting their act together and minimising their mistakes.
Argentina scored two converted tries to take the lead 21-18.
But then the Warriors were allowed possession from broken play. In the 60th minute a solid Warriors counterattack saw wing Nacani Wakaya score the winner.
Coach Senirusi Seruvakula said their plan to have superior defence worked.
“We worked hard on our defence especially around the rucks and mauls. We increased the tempo of the game in order to wear out their tight 5 before every set piece was played.”
Warriors manager Dan Domoni said the team was surprised to learn they were playing the Pumas instead of the Pampas.
“It was a very tough game as we competed against a team that had 18 of their players preparing for the World Cup.”
The Warriors have only one more game left on their South American tour which is against Uruguay on Monday.
