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Hammer keen to see Argentine impact

25th November 2014


Director of Rugby Mark Hammett has revealed he is keen to see the impact Argentine duo Lucas Amorosino and Joaquin Tuculet can have on the squad after they returned to Cardiff Blues.

Wing Amorosino, 29, who can also play full back, made his Blues debut against Munster at the start of the month and the 40-capped international shone as he scored on an impressive home debut.

New utility back recruit Tuculet, 25, capped 20 times for the Pumas, has also signed for the Blues in recent weeks and has now met up with his new team-mates.

The Argentina duo jetted back into Cardiff high on confidence after helping their country secure an epic 18-13 win over France in Paris on Saturday night. Tuculet started the game at full back while Amorosino was a second half replacement.

And Hammer is keen to see what the Pumas pair can do for Blues as he revealed he determination to have the ‘right fit’ with any new signings at the region.

“Since I’ve been here I haven’t written up a contract longer than until the end of this season for obvious reasons,” he said.

“I want to get a really good idea of where we are and anyone who comes in I want to make sure they suit the place, both from a competence perspective but also their character and where we want to be.

“That is why we have signed Lucas and Joaquin until the end of the season initially so they can come in and we can make sure it works for everyone. We’re excited to see what they can do.

“We have had some injuries and long-term ones with people like Rhys Patchell and Dafydd Hewitt. It’s important we can fill and manage those spots for the rest of the season.

“If we find that these recruits and are outstanding, they love the culture, love the Blues and want to put their heart and soul into it, then they are the kind of people we will continue with.”

Hammer was full of praise for the manner in which Amorosino performed on his debut and know wants the Buenos Aires-born ace to build on that display.

“Lucas can play and anyone who saw the Munster game saw what he can bring,” he said.

“He scored that try and while he is not a big man his skills are good and technically he is good. Because of his foot speed he very rarely gets hit straight on, because of that you have an opportunity to offload.

“It is early days and only game one. It’s easy to impress in game one; it’s important he now keeps impressing.”

Watch Cardiff Blues and the Argentines return to BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park as we face Treviso this Friday night! To book your place call the Ticket Office today on 02920 302030 or click HERE to buy online.