Rugby: Last-gasp drop goal hands Argentina victory

Argentina 22 Ireland 20

BUENOS AIRES - Leinster first five-eighths Felipe Contepomi converted a drop goal in the final minute to give Argentina a 22-20 victory over Ireland in the first test today.

Contepomi notched up 17 points, including four penalties and a conversion, as Argentina came from behind to lead for the first time with their try by centre Hernan Senillosa six minutes from time.

Ireland raced into a 10-6 first-half lead with an early try on his debut by league convert Brian Carney converted by Paddy Wallace and snatched the lead back from the Pumas four minutes from the end with Gavan Duffy's penalty.

In between, Ireland had a penalty try converted by Wallace to go 17-9 ahead before the Argentines fought back to go 1-0 up in the two-test series.

The second match is in Buenos Aires next Saturday.

- REUTERS