Ireland crashed out of the rugby World Cup in Cardiff on Sunday easily defeated by a rampant Argentina team who shocked the Irish with their wide open brand of running. The final score was an extraordinary one, 43 to 20 for Argentina, the highest score ever given up by this Irish team which prides itself on its defensive ability.

The game was only ten minutes old and Argentina led by 17-0 as they simply overwhelmed a weakened Irish side missing four of their top players through injuries.

Ireland fought bravely back into contention following a try and went in at half time just a converted try and penalty behind at 20-10.

Ireland closed the gap to just three points after a brilliant Luke Fitzgerald try, and outhalf Ian Madigan missed a penalty kick to have Ireland draw level.

However, that was as close as Ireland came as Argentina rediscovered their first half dash and drive and seemed to run through the Irish defense at will.

The final score of 43-20 adequately reflected the Argentina superiority and a disappointed Irish team once more went out of the World Cup at the quarter final stage --they have never progressed further.

The Irish defeat showed once again that southern hemisphere teams such as Argentina, New Zealand and Australia are far more evolved in rugby tactics than the European side. Ireland’s offensive failings were ruthlessly laid bare by the Argentinians.

Ireland were rated the highest of the European teams but injuries and the unstoppable Argies finished them off.

The semi finals will feature the winners if Australia Scotland, South Africa and New Zealand-- the old firm in other words.