Robinson wary of Argentina forwards

Scotland boss Andy Robinson will not underestimate the threat posed by Argentina's trademark forward power in today's first Test in Tucuman.

The hosts will have Felipe Contepomi in their side for the first time in over a year after he missed all their Tests in 2009 due to a serious knee injury.

But, while Robinson knows the Toulon fly-half will be a threat, he is especially wary of the problems the Pumas forwards could cause his side.

"We fully respect the Argentinian side, particularly their forwards," he said.

"Six of their forwards played in the 2007 World Cup so their have gained huge experience. Also, I am a massive fan of (Juan Martin) Fernandez Lobbe. I think he is a world-class player."

Robinson is also expects a hostile atmosphere.

"The pitch is very, very good," he continued. "It is an excellent surface and we think the atmosphere will be tremendous, very ferocious. Despite this, I think we can succeed."

Glasgow Warriors lock Alastair Kellock will lead Scotland in the absence of the injured Chris Cusiter, and has good memories of playing in Argentina having been part of the side that defeated the Pumas in the second Test in 2008.

Back-rower John Barclay knows, though, that they will have to be on their game if they are to repeat that success.

He said: "The Argentinian players never surrender and they have the quality to fight with top sides, Argentina are always tough and serious opponents.

"There are a lot of Argentinian players in top teams in France performing at a very high level. They are a very strong team, with a very hard, experienced pack."

Argentina and Scotland will also meet in the World Cup next year, but Barclays is not concerned about psychological points scoring this weekend.

"This is a good way to start thinking about the World Cup, but after the game, not right now," he said.

"We do not have our minds on next year's tournaments yet, but it will be interesting to think about these games in the future."