In a World Cup where Argentina have emerged from the status of dark horses for qualification from the pool stage to potential winners of the competition, they have impressed more than they did today. Even a substandard performance from the Pumas, however, was enough to end Scotland’s hopes of making the semi-finals.

Marcello Loffreda's side began the match relying on Garryowens from the gilded boot of Juan Martin Hernandez, the tactic that undid the France in the opening game of the tournament, and completed it by setting up a now-familiar unimpeachable defence. In the interim they profited from a Scotland display undermined by bad errors and a lack of imagination.

The opening try resulted from one such mistake. His side 6-3 trailing after three converted tries, Dan Parks had a clearance kick charged down from a defensive lineout and Gonzalo Longo darted between two Scottish defenders to touch down. Why the covering Rory Lamont did not dive on the ball only he can explain.

Another penalty from Parks put Scotland only a converted try behind at the interval and, after a half when they had tried and failed to match Argentina at their kick-and-scrum approach, Frank Hadden’s side deserved no more.

Thankfully for the spectator, and compelled by another conversion from Felipe Contepomi that put two scores between the sides, Scotland played more expansively after the break and had their reward just after the hour.

On as a replacement, Craig Smith scattered the Argentina defence with a powerful run, Scotland recycled and set up Chris Cusiter – also recently introduced from the bench – to touch down in the corner. Chris Patterson converted expertly to put his side a converted try from the lead.

Argentina, however, did not allow Scotland to breach their game line again and and expertly ran down time when their forwards had possession. Scotland, true to their form throughout, squandered the only further opportunity afforded them, giving up possession after Parks set up an attacking line out with an excellent kick.