Los Pumas 7s Secure Bronze in Latest York, Setting Sights on World Championship
New York City played host to the final stage of the SVNS Series regular season, where Los Pumas 7s claimed the bronze medal, marking their second podium finish of the season after their runner-up performance in Cape Town. The Argentinian team defeated Australia 26-10 in a decisive third-place match, concluding the regular season with a total of 54 medals throughout World Tour history – 24 bronze, 18 silver and 12 gold.
Semifinal Clash with South Africa
Argentina faced a formidable opponent in the semifinals: South Africa, one of the season’s top teams. South Africa dominated the first half, establishing a 14-0 lead by halftime. While Marcos Moneta scored a try early in the second half, Los Pumas 7s were unable to close the gap, ultimately falling 14-5. South Africa advanced to the final.
Argentina’s Semifinal Lineup
- Matteo Graziano
- Santiago Álvarez (Captain)
- Santino Zangara
- Pedro de Haro
- Santiago Vera Feld
- Luciano González
- Marcos Moneta
- Gregorio Pérez Pardo
- Martiniano Arrieta
- Lautaro Bazán Vélez
- Sebastián Dubuc
- Juan Patricio Batac
Marcos Moneta was the sole try scorer for Argentina in the semifinal match.
Bronze Medal Victory Over Australia
The bronze medal match pitted Argentina against Australia, who had previously lost to Fiji 28-7 in the semifinals. Australia opened the scoring three minutes into the first half, but Pedro de Haro quickly responded with a try to tie the game at 5-5, a score that held until halftime.
Los Pumas 7s showcased their strength in the second half, scoring three tries in quick succession. Marcos Moneta led the charge, followed by Santino Zangara and Sebastián Dubuc, securing a 26-10 victory. Australia managed to add another try to their tally, finalizing the score.
Argentina’s Bronze Medal Match Lineup
- Matteo Graziano
- Santiago Álvarez (Captain)
- Martiniano Arrieta
- Pedro de Haro
- Juan Patricio Batac
- Luciano González
- Marcos Moneta
- Santino Zangara
- Gregorio Pérez Pardo
- Lautaro Bazán Vélez
- Eliseo Morales
- Sebastián Dubuc
Pedro de Haro, Marcos Moneta, Santino Zangara, and Sebastián Dubuc all contributed tries for Argentina. De Haro also successfully completed three conversions, while Sebastián Dubuc received a yellow card during the match.
Looking Ahead: The World Championship
With the SVNS Series regular season concluded, the focus now shifts to the World Championship, which will be held across three stages: Hong Kong (April 17-19), Valladolid (May 29-31), and Bordeaux (June 5-7).