Argentina hail work ethic as they come from behind to beat Wales

MARSEILLE : Argentina coach Michael Cheika said his side's fight back from a 10-point deficit to beat Wales 29-17 in Saturday’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final was a reward for months of hard work.

“These players are such good people, without getting too emotional,” said a beaming Cheika after the clash at the Stade de Marseille where Argentina became the first side into the semi-finals

“They have worked really hard and I think that hard work showed at the end of the game today.

"They wanted to fight for it, they wanted to earn it. We were behind so it takes a bit of leg work. The whole 23 along with the 10 who didn't play put in a huge effort."

For captain Julian Montoya success was the culmination of a long road walked together.

"I think it comes from our personality and the way that we train. We've been preparing for this a lot. Nothing is too easy for us for the last couple of years," he said.

“We trust each other. We are a very tight group. I know you just see the 15 on the pitch or the 23 but there is a group of people behind us who are unbelievable. They work day and night. We are the fortunate guys who wear the jersey but this is a team effort.

"We know it is not going to be perfect; life is not perfect. It's how you embrace the moment and fight for each other. That's what rugby is about.”

Argentina now await the identity of their semi-final opponents when Ireland and New Zealand clash later on Saturday in Paris.

“Two more weeks with this team. I don't want this to end ever," added Montoya. "We need to be better, to be clinical in a lot of things. I know I can be more demanding but I am very proud of this team."

But Cheika said he was not looking too far ahead just yet.

"I don't know if we'll go with the sweeping statements