MENDOZA, Argentina – Argentina saved its best result against South Africa for the grand occasion with the Springboks having to fight back to salvage a 16-16 draw in the Pumas' home debut in the Rugby Championship Saturday. Argentina, which had lost its previous 14 matches against South Africa, ran up a 13-3 halftime lead after a try by center Santiago Fernandez converted by fullback Martin Rodriguez. But Argentina will be left to rue the kick out of defense by Fernandez that was charged down by his opposite number Frans Steyn, who chased the ball and scored the Springboks' sole try 15 minutes from time. Rodriguez and South African flyhalf Morne Steyn kicked three penalties and one conversion apiece. Argentina had already scored more points in the first quarter than it did in its 27-6 defeat by South Africa on its tournament debut in Cape Town a week earlier. South Africa forced its way back into the game and pushed the Pumas' back downfield to rescape with a draw. — Reuters
