Kurtley Beale quelled the Wallabies’ flyhalf concerns with a polished performance against the Pumas in Rosario on Saturday.
The talented utility back was the most influential player on the park as he exhibited composure, kicked well and was sublime on attack in difficult conditions, creating a brilliant try for Digby Ioane.
Beale’s showing completed a remarkable turnaround from struggling replacement to a player who guided his team to an unlikely victory in the number 10 jersey.
Beale received plaudits from coach Robbie Deans and centre Ben Tapuai, who was a dummy runner in the lead up to Ioane's try.
"Mate, it was awesome," Tapuai said. "Just his talent, it lifts everyone up just a notch.
"He helped me with his chat and his skills.
"That ball he gave to Digby was world-class. It was unbelievable."
Deans said Beale and scrumhalf Nick Phipps combined well behind a back that fronted up well against the physical Argentine forwards.
"Kurtley was very good," Deans said. "He's a class act."
Beale will surely retain the flyhalf starting berth for the third Bledisloe Cup Test in Brisbane on October 20, where a similar showing could see him cement himself in the pivotal role ahead of the injured James O'Connor and Quade Cooper.
Prop Ben Alexander said the team took a major step in the right direction by overcoming their underdog status and a passionate home crowd.
"It was unreal, the atmosphere incredible," he said. "It would have been very easy for us to lose our cool and lose our heads.
"The humid weather and narrow pitch really didn't suit the way we wanted to play but I really thought it was a big step up for us."
Gilbert has released a new line of rugby cleats. The Gilbert Virtuo 8S is part of the exciting new product. Check it out.
The entire All Blacks apparel line has been updated for 2013/14. Check out the New Zealand All Blacks polo.
The Nike Tiempo is a solid rugby cleat and one of few styles still made from full-grain natural leather.
The Gilbert Blitz 8S rugby cleat is a great cleat at a great price of $69.99. Get a new pair of cleats today.
A cool looking all black rugby cleat with the high performance adidas is known for. Get in the Gear!
Wear the crest of the British and Irish Lions on your t-shirt. A great look for the summer.
$29.99
The All Blacks Performance t-shirt is black with hints of blue from the training jersey. Very Cool.
The New Zealand All Blacks training jersey for 2013/14. Get in the Gear!
The USA Rugby Pro Alternate rugby jersey is perfect for any fan of the Eagles. Get yours to wear during the summer Test matches.
The NEW All Blacks 2013/14 jersey has arrived at World Rugby Shop. Dare to wear the colors of the All Blacks.