Argentina coach Mario Ledesma has lamented his side’s 38-0 Tri-Nations defeat to the All Blacks in Newcastle on Saturday.

Following Argentina’s stirring 25-15 triumph over New Zealand a fortnight ago, the sides were set for an epic rematch. But it turned out to be a one-sided affair as the All Blacks thrashed Los Pumas to all but secure the Tri-Nations title.

Speaking after the game, Ledesma said getting a second consecutive win over the All Blacks was always a bridge too far for his men.

‘It was the same Everest that we climbed in the first game,’ Ledesma said. ‘The All Blacks used their feet very well and put us under pressure. We just couldn’t scale Everest for a second time.’

Flyhalf Nicolas Sanchez, who emerged as the hero in the first Test after scoring all 25 of Argentina’s points, added that while they are no excuses for their performance in the second match, they were confronted by a far more superior rival this week.

‘We are hurt, but that happens when you play against teams like these. Today was a very different game from the previous one we had against them. They put a lot of pressure on us [inside our own half].’

‘The reality is that they surpassed us and now we have a week to put this hard fall behind us. We will return with more energy to face Australia again.’

Photo: Rick Rycroft/AP