England had to find a different way to win after Elliot Daly’s fifth-minute red card left them up against it but dug deep for a 27-14 victory over Argentina at Twickenham.
Argentina’s own indiscipline allowed Eddie Jones’ men to build a vital 16-0 first-half lead and they showed character to survive a Pumas fightback either side of the break before clinching victory with Jonny May’s try.
Daly became only the fifth England player to be sent off when he clattered into Leonardo Senatore with a dangerous late tackle while the number eight was catching the ball and that careless moment will be a worry for Jones.
TWEET OF THE MATCH:
Now that’s what red cards should be for! #no need #engVarg – former England wing Jason Robinson feels the late red card for Argentina replacement prop Enrique Pieretto, for stamping on Joe Marler, was more justified than the early one for England’s Elliot Daly, for a late tackle on Pumas No8 Leonardo Senatore while he was in the air.
Now that's what red cards should be for!! #noneed #engVarg
— Jason Robinson OBE (@Jason15Robinson) November 26, 2016
MOMENT OF THE MATCH:
England’s back row were outstanding and played a full role in a 29th-minute penalty try. Man of the match Chris Robshaw chased down full-back Santiago Cordero before Billy Vunipola pounced when the full-back coughed up the ball. Robshaw then ploughed into the ruck and when the overlap appeared with Tom Wood waiting for the scoring pass, Matias Orlando deliberately knocked on.
STAR MAN:
Robshaw’s resolve typified England’s response to the Elliot Daly’s dismissal with the blindside flanker harassing the Pumas at every available opportunity. It was a defensive masterclass from a player who continues to improve.
STAT OF THE MATCH:
Daly became the fifth England player to be sent off after taking out Argentina number eight Leonardo Senatore in mid air.
VILLAIN OF THE DAY:
Daly became the first England back to be shown a red card and the Wasps wing can have no complaints as he clattered mindlessly into Senatore, who landed head first. It was the end of the concussed Puma’s afternoon and 75 minutes of toil now awaited England.
WHO’S UP NEXT?
England v Australia, Twickenham, December 3
England v France, Twickenham, February 4
