Ireland vs Argentina LIVE rugby: Result and reaction as host cling on for tight win against Pumas

Ireland survived a major scare as they kickstarted their autumn campaign by holding off a spirited Argentina side to return to winning ways with an unconvincing 22-19 victory in Dublin.

Andy Farrell’s men were seeking a response to being knocked off the top of the world rankings following last week’s deflating defeat to New Zealand.

Fly-half Jack Crowley claimed the opening try at the Aviva Stadium and also kicked seven points, including a superb drop goal, to supplement first-half scores from Mack Hansen and Joe McCarthy.

“They are different things. I was guilty of a few offsides. When you are under pressure against quality teams you are bound to make a couple of errors. There was definitely some avoidable ones in there. They are the ones we need to look at.

“We want a better performance. Discipline is one thing that needs to improve but we are continuing to grow as a group. I think today was a bit of a step up from last week but we feel like there is definitely more in us. A more complete performance is what we are asking for over the next couple of weeks, and we’re going to need it.”

“It went right down to the wire there. We were happy with how it started. There was a good feeling through the warm-up and that carried over to the start. I felt we were in a pretty good position at half time and their quality showed in the second half.

“It was back and forth and our discipline was probably a factor again. We got the result, which was the most pleasing thing after last week.”

Joe McCarthy was named man of the match and explained what he liked about Ireland’s performance. He said: “I suppose just the fight to stay in it. We know how good Argentina are, we knew they were going to be super-tough. The lads were unbelievable to dig in today.

“There’s a lot to work on. It wasn’t perfect but we were happy to get in with it. A huge two next games. It will be massive. We’ll enjoy tonight but be back into work on Monday.”

Ireland’s Joe McCarthy, speaking to TNT Sports, said: “I just wanted to say a big thanks to all the crowd here. There’s been a thing about the Aviva and the atmosphere but you were amazing today.

“We were really sorry that we disappointed you last week. We really wanted to show how much it means to us. We really appreciate your support, it means the world to us. Thank you.”

Ireland cling on!

Argentina go 40 metres with the clock in the red but the ball goes forward and Argetina give up possession. The game ends and Ireland manage to get the win.

A superb match but Ireland take a hard-fought for victory.

78 mins: Ireland kick for territory and look to squeeze Argentina in their own half. They’ve got a man advantage and can take their time with these phases.

The longer they hold onto the ball the closer they get to this win.

75 mins: Time is ticking away from Argentina but they’ve got possession. A kick out to the right wing is won by Ireland with Ringrose securing the ball.

The TMO is asked to get involved after a tackle from Francisco Gomez Kodela on Caelan Doris. It’s a yellow card and his off the field!

The Pumas are down to 14 for the final five minutes.

73 mins: Argentina turn over the ball! They dominate a counter ruck and scramble over the ball to nick it from the home. That came after 12 phases or so.

Can they get up the pitch quickly? No. Ireland come at them again after a lineout.

70 mins: 10 minutes to play with Ireland rolling the dice a few metres from the line. They tap and run with the intent to get through the middle.

Argentina defend phase after phase with Ireland slowly getting forced back. They’re going nowhere and need a bit of inspiration.