Argentina coach Felipe Contepomi accused England flanker Tom Curry of being a “thug” after a tense match at Twickenham, where England won 27-23.
Contepomi expressed his fury after Argentine fullback Juan Cruz Mallia suffered an injury in the 75th minute following a tackle by Curry. The coach considered the action “reckless” and late, which resulted in a penalty for Curry.
The tension remained high after the match, with Curry at the center of the controversy. According to Contepomi, Curry insulted him and pushed him in the tunnel.
He was there and he approached wanting to greet one of our coaches, but we said no because we were upset. It was reckless and he broke our player’s knee.
Felipe Contepomi
Contepomi added that Curry responded with rudeness and pushed him. The Argentinian coach regretted the lack of respect and humility from Curry after Mallia’s injury.
England coach Steve Borthwick said he did not witness the incident, but affirmed that Tom Curry has an impeccable character and is a respectful man.Maro Itoje, England player, commented that emotions are usually running high after the matches, but highlighted the mutual respect between both teams.
Juan Cruz Mallia’s injury could be a torn anterior cruciate ligament, but more tests are needed to confirm it.
