Argentina hail Agustin Pichot after victory over Wallabies
Australia fume over laser-beaming Mendoza fans as media back home describe their performance as an ‘absolute shambles’
Argentina dedicated their first Rugby Championship victory to former star Agustin Pichot while Australia fumed over laser-beaming Mendoza spectators.
Pichot, an inspirational scrum-half and skipper when the Pumas finished third at the 2007 Rugby World Cup, was widely praised after a come-from-behind 21-17 victory.
Coach Daniel Hourcade, skipper and hooker Agustin Creevy, and long-serving inside centre Juan Martin Hernandez were among those who lauded Pichot.
Many people were involved in making this dream come true, but I want to dedicate the victory to Agustin [Pichot]
The 40-year-old played a key role in convincing southern hemisphere officials two years ago to expand a Tri-nations tournament featuring Australia, New Zealand and South Africa and include Argentina.
"I thank Agustin for his support and leadership," said Hourcade, who replaced Santiago Phelan last year after two winless Championship campaigns.
Creevy said: "I am grateful to Agustin for his unconditional support."
"Many people were involved in making this dream come true, but I want to dedicate the victory to Agustin," said Hernandez.
Ambitious Argentina, the lone top-tier rugby nation in South America, will enter the Super 18 inter-provincial competition in 2016.