Jack van Poortvliet's Late Heroics Clinch Series Win for England Over Argentina
What a game we’ve just witnessed between Argentina and England! It was a dramatic, physical, edge-of-your-seat encounter that ended with England grabbing a thrilling 22-17 victory in San Juan. And what made it even sweeter? This wasn’t just a win—it was the decisive blow that secured a 2-0 series triumph for a young, under-strength England side.
Let’s set the scene. The Estadio Bicentenario was roaring, the pressure was on, and both sides had everything to play for in this final test of the series. England had already stunned the hosts in the first test with a convincing 35-12 win, but Argentina came out in this match with more grit and intensity. The first half was tight. England started well with a try by Atkinson in the 4th minute, quickly converted by George Ford. But Argentina, refusing to lie down, came back strong with tries from Lucio Cinti and Ignacio Mendy, putting them 17-14 ahead at halftime.
Also Read:- Primal Eggs Bring Dinosaurs and Big Rewards to Grow a Garden
- Pippa Middleton Steals the Spotlight at British Grand Prix in Chic Summer Style
Now here’s where it got really tense. The second half was a slog—brutal, messy, and full of missed chances. England had so many opportunities inside Argentina’s 22, but time and time again, they couldn’t find the finish. George Ford leveled the score at 17-17 with a penalty in the 53rd minute, and from there, the match just hung in the balance. It felt like it could go either way. Fans were on the edge of their seats.
And then, with the clock ticking into the 79th minute, Guy Pepper—who had been nothing short of a revelation off the bench—picked up a loose ball, darted down the blindside, and delivered a perfectly timed offload to Jack van Poortvliet. The substitute scrum-half darted through and dived over the line to seal it. Boom. Game over. Series won. Silence in the stadium.
Captain George Ford summed it up perfectly: “We found a way.” And he’s right. This England squad, missing over a dozen regulars, including players in Australia and dealing with injuries, showed heart, depth, and sheer willpower. The likes of Atkinson, Steward, Pepper, and Van Poortvliet proved their mettle, with the whole team showcasing a unity and toughness that could bode very well for the future.
Let’s not forget: Argentina came into this series with serious momentum. They’d beaten the British & Irish Lions and had a strong core of their best players ready. But England, with a largely second-string lineup, handled the hostile atmosphere, the physical test, and the pressure. It’s a huge statement win—one that not only wraps up the series but shows just how much depth and talent this English squad really has.
A cracking test match. A gritty performance. And a last-minute try that we’ll be replaying for years. England fans, be proud.
Read More:
0 Comments