England vs Argentina tips and suggested bets: Borthwick's troops to edge World Cup third-place playoff

The English celebrated too early and were pipped at the post in a brutal battle against South Africa last Saturday evening, while Argentina appeared to check out after some 50/50 calls went against them against the All Blacks on Friday.

This third-place playoff is a test of desire and professionalism, and on the evidence of last week, England have the edge. Their 27-10 win over Argentina in the Group will give them a small morale boost too.

England have shuffled their anti-air gun Freddie Steward out to the wing bringing Marcus Smith back to be used as a playmaking 15 in response to the way Argentina play.

The Pumas are more likely to kick onto the wings if they stick to their standard game but England are happy to have Steward front their efforts in the air as pacey ball-player Henry Arundell slots in on the left.

Arundell looks the most likely of the three to actually get over the line and score that first five-pointer.

England might be good for a 15-20 point win over the Pumas in this match, with Argentina looking unlikely to keep their focus if they don't start well.

Argentina have impressed with their guts and enterprise, but they have been disappointing at the setpiece. The Pumas are likely to shade England in terms of penalties going against them, which will cost them dearly.

We expect England to play it tight to start but to use their exciting outside backs later in the game. The second half should outscore the first if the game follows the expected pattern.

Emiliano Boffelli is likely to be the first scorer for the Pumas as their goalkicker and an accomplished finisher out on the wing.

Agustin Creevy has a knack for getting over the line in big contests and is likely to get 20 or 30 minutes in the second half off the Pumas bench.

 

Predictions:

Henry Arundell first try scorer
England 16-20 win
Emiliano Boffelli first Argentina tryscorer
Agustin Creevy anytime tryscorer