Scotland will be looking to level the series and turn next weekend's third and final Test at the Estadio Unico Madre de Ciudades into a decider when they take on an Argentina outfit that misfired but still managed to bag a 26-18 win over their European opponents in the first Test.
Argentina v Scotland
Saturday 9 June | 21:10
Estadio Padre Ernesto Martearena
To Win Match
Argentina 48/100 | Draw 22/1 | Scotland 18/10
Handicap
Argentina (-5.5) 9/10 | Scotland (+5.5) 9/10
While it was far from a vintage showing from the Argentines they did manage to get Michael Cheika’s tenure at the Los Pumas helm off to a winning start as they registered an eight-point victory over what is a far from full-strength Scottish outfit.
The victory should have been far more comfortable for the South Americans who had built up a solid 18-6 half-time lead with two tries just before the interval. They rested on their laurels during the early stages of the second half, however, and were made to pay as the tourists came roaring back into the game with tries from Mark Bennett and Rory Hutchinson ensuring the Argentines were in for a nervy finish.
The hosts would manage to get over the line, though, with scrum-half Matteo Carreras’ try and a penalty from Emiliano Boffelli ensuring they take the win.
Scotland have made a couple of changes, the most notable of these being Hamish Watson coming into the back row. Ali Price also drops to the bench in favour of Ben White.
Verdict: Scotland (+5.5) 9/10
The Scots gave a solid account of themselves during the second half of last weekend’s fixture. I expect them to have a better first half this time around which should leave them within the handicap when all is said and done.
