IRELAND'S hopes of qualifying, for the quarter finals of the Students' World Cup ended at the Rand Afrikaans University ground Johannesburg, yesterday, when the side went down to Argentina by 52 points to 37.

The Irish put up a resolute performance against the tournament favourites, but the Argentinians had the greater depth. Ireland, however, score six tries to the winner's five.

Ireland will now have to be content with playing for a minor placing on Wednesday. Wales, who defeated Ireland last Saturday, and Argentina qualified from the Irish group for the knock out stages.

Ireland's try scorers yesterday were Darragh O'Mahony (2), James Topping (2), David Humphreys and Robin Saverimutto. Simon Mason kicked a penalty goal and two conversions.