Argentina will attempt to deliver a psychological blow to the Wallabies by winning the vital scrum battle in Saturday night’s Test in Perth.
The Wallabies were battered from pillar to post by South Africa last weekend, with the Springboks dominating the breakdown and scrum to secure a 38-12 win in Brisbane.
Argentina’s forward pack performed well in last Saturday’s 28-13 loss to the All Blacks, and prop Marcos Ayerza said the Pumas needed to make the most of their renowned physicality if they are to notch an upset win over the Wallabies.
“I feel the modern game hasn’t given the scrum the importance it needs,” Ayerza said.
“You’ve seen over the last five or 10 years how many teams have put the ball in and out (of the scrum) and just played it as a platform and not as a psychological dominance.
“It’s a way of getting penalties.
“I think the scrum is such a unique formation and a unique part of the game. It’s amazing how it influences the psychological domination.”
Ayerza said although flashy backline play was entertaining to watch, a pushover try was just as effective.
“A pushover scrum is five points, same as 20 phases of fancy game,” the 42-Test veteran said.
“I prefer having the adrenaline and satisfaction of a pushover scrum. A good scrum dominance is second to none.
“Both teams will be focused on that area. It will be a great contest and I feel nervous about it.
“I think one of our big strengths that gives us confidence is playing the physical game – the tight forward game.
“We pride ourselves in that area.”
Argentina haven’t beaten the Wallabies since recording an 18-16 win in Buenos Aires in 1997.
Their sole victory in Australia came in 1983, when they posted an 18-3 triumph in Brisbane.