Argentina proved just too strong for a valiant Italy side on Saturday by holding off a late fightback to win 22-16 in the first of their November internationals.
With the scores deadlocked 6-6 at halftime, fullback Martin Rodriguez ran over for the decisive try 10 minutes into the second half. Felipe Contepomi converted and then added two more penalties before the Azzurri were awarded a late penalty try to set up a close finish.
The Pumas had to recover from a spirited start by the home side before a stoppage-time penalty from Contepomi, his fifth of the match, sealed the points for the 2007 World Cup semifinalists. – Reuters