Joining regional partner Gareth Davies at half-back, Patchell converted both first-half tries and also added two penalties as he landed four out of his five shots at goal. His composure and game-management was also top draw in the white-hot atmosphere in San Juan.
“Against a very experienced international side and a team that’s been together a long time with so many Jaguares players, the forwards stood up. They played really well and I’m really proud of the efforts of the boys,” said Patchell.
“The forwards certainly went well in the first 20 minutes and when they do that, it makes things a lot easier for us as backs. Defensively we worked really, really hard and that was something we talked about during the week – we’re delighted to come out with a good result.
“We’ve talked about working together, having pride in our defence, and making it something that’s both critical to us and something we pride ourselves on. The forwards worked well and Hadleigh Parkes and Scott Williams led the line speed.
“On the whole, we’ll be happy when we look at the video. I’d imagine Argentina are going to come with a big response next week.
“We played well as a team and I think Argentina were probably taken aback by the intensity our young pack showed. They stuck at it though and in the last 10 or 15 minutes it was a bit hairy for us.
“They had a lot of possession on our try line, but the boys dug in. As happy and proud as we are of the performance, there is still plenty to work on.”
Warren Gatland is hoping his side can complete a clean-sweep of their three-match summer tour in Buenos Aires this weekend and pick up a first Welsh series win in Argentina since 1999. Patchell is hoping for another chance to start in his favoured No 10 jersey
“The coaches will pick whoever they feel will do the best job for the team. On the whole I thought my performance was OK, but all I can concentrate on is being better next week than I was this,” added Patchell.
“I need to work hard in training in the next few days and whatever happens, happens. All I want to do is reward the team and keep them moving forward as that’s the role and responsibility that comes with playing No 9 and No 10.
“It was a great atmosphere, fantastic. We knew it would be white hot with the crowd right on top of us and they didn’t disappoint, but that’s why you play international rugby, to feature in front of such crowds and this was a good day.”
