George Ford Leads England to International Test Win vs. Argentina

England won their second summer international test match in a row against Argentina, beating the Pumas 35-25 one week after securing a 38-34 win. Substitute Will Collier scored a late try to break a 25-25 deadlock as England eventually eased into a healthy winning margin.

Earlier, the visitors relied on a strong game from fly-half George Ford, who scored 15 points, while Piers Francis scored his maiden try on his England debut.

Ford's performance helped take England into an early lead, but the visitors were soon pegged back by the Pumas. Argentina were helped by the prolific form of their own gifted No. 10, Nicolas Sanchez.

The skipper's boot kicked the hosts into a slender advantage after Joaquin Tuculet had put Argentina's first try on the board.

At this point, BBC Sport was already anticipating another close-fought and narrow finish between these two:

England appeared on the ropes, but Ford's smart kicking positioned them to regain the lead. They were back in front when first-time international Francis powered over.

Francis was congratulated on his maiden international try by his new club, the Northampton Saints:

The swift fly-half had impressed from the start, catching the eye of Neil Fissler of the Sunday Express:

Argentina tied the score when Pablo Matera went over, but Sanchez missed the conversion. The home side were level for just four minutes as Danny Care powered England back in front.

Three minutes later, the scores were level again when Emiliano Boffelli scored Argentina's third try.

England's fightback was keyed by typical power in the scrum. The visitors forced the issue until sub Collier crossed the line.

Dan Mullan/Getty Images

Ford soon chipped in with another penalty conversion to seal the victory.

Another dramatic win kept the excitement high on this summer tour, with Fissler highlighting the difference in intensity and entertainment between these friendlies and the British Lions Tour:

This has been more than just a warm-up for some of England's key players. It's also been a chance to gain vital test experience for new players such as Francis.

The domestic international rugby setup should be stronger for the lessons learned during these matches.