Springboks impress with four-try win over Argentina in Rugby Championship opener

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EPN

South Africa strong-armed their way past Argentina to secure a four-try win in their Rugby Championship opener.

The Springboks ground past the Pumas 37-15 in Port Elizabeth with Courtnall Skosan, Raymond Rhule, Siya Kolisi and Pieter-Steph du Toit all crossing the whitewash.

Martin Landajo and Emiliano Boffelli claimed tries for the ever attack-minded Pumas, but the visitors were unable to contain the Springboks’ power, especially at the set-piece.

Skosan and Rhule registered their first Test tries as the Springboks got their Rugby Championship campaign up and running in style.

Raymond Rhule scored a first Test try CREDIT: EPA
Raymond Rhule scored a first Test try CREDIT: EPA

Elton Jantjies slotted three penalties to add to his four conversions, while Nicolas Sanchez posted a penalty for Argentina and Juan Martin Hernandez converted Boffelli’s try.

South Africa were made to wait for their breakthroughs despite eventually coasting home, with Jantjies landing two penalties for a 6-0 lead at the end of the first quarter.

Pumas scrum-half Landajo actually opened the try-scoring, capping a typically opportune attack.

But once Skosan crossed the hosts were able to take control, especially after half-time.

South Africa led just 13-5 at the break and so were able to pile on the points after the interval, once their pack had wrestled full control.