NZ Development XV Argentina Tour 1994
In early 1994, the NZ Development XV embarked on a rigorous tour of Argentina, facing a series of regional selections and provincial sides. This tour served as a critical testing ground for emerging New Zealand talent, pitting them against the physical and passionate style of Argentine rugby across various cities and stadiums.
The tour spanned from March 19 to April 9, featuring matches in Rosario, Paraná, Córdoba, Mendoza, Trelew, Resistencia, and concluding in the capital, Buenos Aires. While the New Zealand side dominated the majority of the fixtures, the tour provided a comprehensive look at the regional strengths of Argentine rugby.
ไม่มีภาพประกอบ
Key Facts
- Tour Duration: March 19, 1994, to April 9, 1994.
- Overall Performance: The NZ Development XV won 6 out of 7 matches.
- Highest Score: 78 points scored against Entre Rios.
- Only Defeat: A 38–26 loss to Buenos Aires in the final match.
- Top Scorer Influence: S. Howarth was a pivotal presence, contributing numerous conversions and penalties throughout the tour.
Match-by-Match Analysis
Regional Clashes in March
The tour opened in Rosario on March 19, where the NZ Development XV secured a 45–20 victory. The match, held at Duendes RC and refereed by Gustavo López, saw a strong offensive display from the visitors.
On March 22, the team traveled to Paraná to face Entre Rios at C.A. Estudiantes. This match marked the most dominant performance of the tour, with New Zealand winning 78–12. The scoring was bolstered by multiple tries from J. Wilson and N. Moore.
The competition tightened on March 26 in Córdoba. Playing at Club Universitario, the NZ Development XV defeated Córdoba 38–23. This match featured strong efforts from L. Barry and N. Hewitt.
The final March fixture took place on the 29th at the Independiente Rivadavia Stadium in Mendoza. The NZ Development XV continued their winning streak, defeating Cuyo 45–17.
April Fixtures and the Final Stand
The tour moved into April with a visit to Trelew on the 2nd. Facing the South Selection at Club Patorozú, the New Zealand side delivered another commanding performance, winning 75–16.
On April 5, the team faced the NW Selection at Chaco For Ever in Resistencia. In a tightly contested defensive battle, the NZ Development XV emerged victorious with a 22–5 win.
The tour concluded on April 9 at Estadio GEBA in Buenos Aires. In a surprising turn of events, the Buenos Aires selection managed to break the New Zealand winning streak, securing a 38–26 victory. Key contributions from H. Rivarola and D. Forrester ensured the home side finished the tour on a high note.
ไม่มีภาพประกอบ
Tour Summary Table
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Score (NZ-Opp) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19 March | Rosario | Duendes RC | 45–20 | Win |
| 22 March | Entre Rios | C.A. Estudiantes | 78–12 | Win |
| 26 March | Córdoba | Club Universitario | 38–23 | Win |
| 29 March | Cuyo | Independiente Rivadavia | 45–17 | Win |
| 2 April | South Selection | Club Patorozú | 75–16 | Win |
| 5 April | NW Selection | Chaco For Ever | 22–5 | Win |
| 9 April | Buenos Aires | Estadio GEBA | 26–38 | Loss |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which match had the highest score for the NZ Development XV?
The highest score occurred on March 22 against Entre Rios, where the NZ Development XV scored 78 points.
Who was the only team to defeat the NZ Development XV during the tour?
Buenos Aires was the only team to win, defeating the NZ Development XV 38–26 on April 9.
Who were some of the key players for the New Zealand side?
Key players included J. Mitchell, who served as captain in multiple matches, and S. Howarth, who was responsible for a significant portion of the team's conversions and penalties.
Which referees officiated the tour matches?
The matches were officiated by UAR referees, including Gustavo López, José Luís Rolandi, Ricardo Lamastra, Carlos Den Dulk, O. Vittar, and Santiago Borsani.
Where did the final match of the tour take place?
The final match took place at Estadio GEBA in Buenos Aires.