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Wales expecting a 'big response' from Los Pumas

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Wales’ goal of securing a clean-sweep will be met by a ‘big response’ from Argentina warns flyhalf Rhys Patchell.

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Wales went up 1-0 in the two-match series courtesy of a  23-10 win in San Juan.

The Welsh were the only away side to record a victory over the weekend in the opening round of the June Internationals.

Warren Gatland is hoping his side can pick up a first Welsh series win in Argentina since 1999.

Rhys Patchell’s boot may have played a huge part in Wales’ 23-10 win over Argentina. He converted both first-half tries and also added two penalties as he landed four out of his five shots at goal. His composure and game-management was also top draw in the white-hot atmosphere in San Juan.

However, the Scarlets flyhalf was the first to doff his cap to the effort of his forwards for their role in a magnificent away win and has warned the side to expect a massive backlash from the hosts this weekend.

“Against a very experienced international side and a team that’s been together a long time with so many Jaguares players, the forwards stood up. They played really well and I’m really proud of the efforts of the boys,” said Patchell.

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“The forwards certainly went well in the first 20 minutes and when they do that, it makes things a lot easier for us as backs.

“On the whole, we’ll be happy when we look at the video.

“I’d imagine Argentina are going to come with a big response next week.

“We played well as a team and I think Argentina were probably taken aback by the intensity our young pack showed. They stuck at it though and in the last 10 or 15 minutes, it was a bit hairy for us.

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“They had a lot of possession on our try line, but the boys dug in. As happy and proud as we are of the performance, there is still plenty to work on.”

Patchell is hoping for another chance to start in his favoured No.10 jersey.

“The coaches will pick whoever they feel will do the best job for the team. On the whole, I thought my performance was OK, but all I can concentrate on is being better next week than I was this,” added Patchell.

“I need to work hard in training in the next few days and whatever happens, happens. All I want to do is reward the team and keep them moving forward as that’s the role and responsibility that comes with playing No.9 and No.10.

“It was a great atmosphere, fantastic. We knew it would be white hot with the crowd right on top of us and they didn’t disappoint, but that’s why you play international rugby, to feature in front of such crowds and this was a good day,”

@WelshRugbyunion

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