Warriors hooker Joe Taufete’e has again been named in USA’s starting XV as they continue their defence of the Americas Rugby Championship against an Argentina XV in Rio Negro on Saturday.
Last Saturday Taufete’e equalled former Ireland hooker Keith Wood’s record of international tries by a front row forward when he crossed for the 15th try of his career in the crushing victory over Chile in Santiago.
Although Taufete’e will start on Saturday he will have to wait two more weeks before he gets the chance to break Wood’s record as USA are not awarding caps for the match against Argentina’s second string.
USA play Brazil in Austin in their next full cap international on February 23 followed by matches against Uruguay and Canada in Seattle to complete their Americas Championship campaign.
Former Warriors Director of Rugby Gary Gold, now USA’s Head Coach, said: “Argentina XV will be a massive physical challenge for us this week, not only at the breakdowns but also they have a strong set piece.
“It’ll be important for us to keep our penalty count low as good discipline is extremely crucial in tight games. Consistency is also a critical factor in both our preparation and the way we assemble our team from week to week.
“We’re confident not only in the 23 players named to this roster but also that the contributions made by the guys not named will play a huge role in our efforts this week.”