Pumas scare could work in Emerging Ireland's favour

The Pumas dominated large parts of the final hour and there was a very real threat of them pulling off a remarkable comeback win.

Scott Penny of Emerging Ireland, right, passes to teammate Diarmuid Barron during the Toyota Challenge match between Airlink Pumas and Emerging Ireland at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, South Africa. Photo by Johan Pretorius/Sportsfile

Emerging Ireland will view Wednesday’s hard-fought win over an ambitious Pumas team as ideal preparation for Sunday’s tour-ending encounter against the Cheetahs.

Within the opening quarter of the midweek clash against the Pumas, the visitors led 21-0 and looked on track to rack up a scoreline similar to the 54-7 victory achieved in the opening match against the Griquas.