South Africa crush depleted Argentina

LONDON - Argentina, deprived of most of their best European-based professionals, were beaten 39-7 by South Africa in Buenos Aires on Saturday.

The Pumas, fresh from upsetting France 24-14 and narrowly losing 21-19 to Ireland in Dublin, might have secured a first home victory over the Springboks with a full side.

But a club-versus-country clash on a European Cup day meant the South Americans could call on only six of the team that started their two internationals in Europe.

Tri-nations champions South Africa were without several members of the squad that finished their November tour of Britain and Ireland with two wins and two defeats, but they still ran out easy winners.

Two tries by Gaffie du Toit who also added 14 points with his boot settled the match for South Africa who led 36-7 at halftime.

- REUTERS