Springboks hold on for Argentina victory

The Springboks just held out for a 37-33 victory in their one-off Test withArgentina on Sunday night after new coach Harry Viljoen had told them torun the ball at every opportunity and show commitment to his new gameplan.

The first man to defy orders was new fly half Percy Montgomery who, withthe Boks clinging to an eight point lead after 65 minutes, had no optionbut to clear his lines under heavy pressure.

The South African approach worked superbly in the first half before arecord 55,000 crowd at the River Plate Stadium, who had created anfantastic atmosphere by welcoming the teams with showers of confetti intrue Argentine soccer style.

They led 24-16 at half time after scoring four tries and the Pumas lookedin for a drubbing. But all that running took it out of the Springboks, whotired badly against a side who finally showed some passion. The Springboksled by only one point with five minutes left.

Braam van Straaten kicked apenalty under extreme pressure to give the Boks a little breathing spacebut as the Pumas drove repeatedly at the line it was only the strength ofAndrews, Venter and Le Roux that kept them out.

The Springboks head for Tests against Ireland, Wales and England lackingsome confidence and with clear weaknesses. Joost Van der Westhuizen is notas quick as he was, Percy Montgomery is an unpredictable half back partner,Van Straaten lacks creativity and Andre Vos's leadership is suspect underepressure.