At one point Wales were 38-9 down and staring into the abyss.

But, while they continued to leak in defence, the visitors also attacked with great skill and determination to put themselves back in the frame.

However, it was not to be as Argentina held out to claim revenge on Wales, who had won both Tests while here in 1999.

Had the visitors taken advantage of a solid and encouraging start they would have been in a commanding half-time lead.

Instead, having begun the second half 19-9 down, within seven minutes of the restart Wales went from being still in the game to being firmly in the embarrassment zone.

The Welsh defence was much vaunted following a 42-0 pre-tour win over a star-studded Barbarians outfit at Ashton Gate.

But as they fell off tackles, lost their defensive shape and crumbled under the Pumas' pressure such thoughts were far from the minds of the hundred or so fans who followed their team.

Leinster fly-half Felipe Contepomi hit four penalties and four conversions, whiel Gavin Henson hit five penalties and three conversions for the tourists.

South African-born Hal Luscombe scored a try for Wales on his Test debut.

It was a disappointing end to a great week for veteran Wales second-row forward Gareth Llewellyn who was making a record 88th Wales appearance.

Hooker Hugh Bennett entered the fray after 76 minutes - a player who was six years of age when Llewellyn won his first cap in 1989.