Rowntree warns of Argentina threat

England is expecting an epic battle up front when they face Argentina at Twickenham, despite the visitors having a new coach and missing players.

England assistant coach Graham Rowntree is braced for the traditional forward assault from Argentina in Saturday's QBE International at Twickenham.

A 20-13 victory over Australia launched the autumn series and even though the Pumas have been robbed of several top players through injury, Rowntree still expects an epic battle up front.

"Argentina have a new coach and a few players missing, but they will still come to Twickenham and play a very simple game and take us on in the forwards," he said.

"Historically that's what they've done at Twickenham and I have a lot of respect for them.

"A lot of their players are playing in Europe for big French teams. It will be a challenge."

England's forwards finished the Cook Cup triumph without missing a single tackle and also mastered Australia at the breakdown, prompting Rowntree to declare that his pack have "immense" potential.

"I was pleased with the pack and relieved to get a start like that, but we have lots to do," he said.

"That's been my language to the pack this week. We have to go up a couple of notches."

Rowntree said the potential in his side was where the beauty lay.

"We have good depth in various positions and good headaches for me and they're getting worse by the game," he said.

"Guys are putting their hands up every week and that's what we want. We still have a lot more to do to achieve that potential."


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Source: AAP


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