Sunday 24 August 2014 08:37, UK
South Africa skipper Jean de Villiers was quick to pay tribute to Argentina after his side edged out the Pumas late on in a thrilling Rugby Championship contest in Salta.
The Pumas looked to be heading for their first Test match victory over the Springboks at the 19th attempt as they opened a 12-point lead, but South Africa roared back with Morne Steyn ultimately kicking a 77th-minute penalty to break Argentinian hearts.
De Villiers conceded his side had endured a major scare and were a long way from their best, labelling his side’s display “a work in progress”.
However, he instead chose to praise Argentina who still remain on the hunt for their maiden victory in the competition.
"I'll say it again, this Argentinian team, they're a team on the up," stated de Villiers. "They're getting better and better and credit must go to the way they played.
“They played incredibly well. We are just so happy to get the win."
"We stuck to our guns and won. They created many challenges for us. And I am just happy that we beat them a second time within eight days.
"There were problems at scrum time, but when it really counted, the pack did well.
"This team is a work in progress. And there are lots of errors to be corrected.
"Youngsters like Damian de Allende and Handre Pollard are on a steep learning curve and they will get better and better."
