If the Argentinian team could change one thing about their performance in the Rugby Championship final, it would undoubtedly be their performance at the scrum. A lack of parity in this crucial area was the single biggest factor in their defeat to South Africa, undermining an otherwise courageous and competitive display.
The Pumas showed that in most other facets of the game, they could live with the world champions. Their defense was brave, their breakdown work was competitive, and their attack was sharp and dangerous. However, all this good work was consistently undone every time the two packs engaged.
The scrum became a source of constant retreat and penalties, handing territory, possession, and momentum to the Springboks. It prevented the Pumas from launching their own attacks from a stable platform and forced them to play a defensive game for long periods.
Coach Michael Cheika and his staff will know that this is the area that needs the most urgent attention if they are to take the next step and win major trophies. Achieving scrum parity against the likes of South Africa is non-negotiable for any team with championship aspirations.
The frustration for the Pumas is that they were so close, yet so far. They had the heart and the skill to win, but the technical deficiencies at the scrum proved to be an anchor that dragged their title hopes to the bottom.