Daniel Hourcade: Argentina must triple their efforts

Daniel Hourcade insists Argentina will not rest on the success of 2015 and instead build for improvement at the next Rugby World Cup.

The Pumas were the highest-scoring side in their pool in England, totalling more than eventual winners New Zealand, and drew praise for their attacking prowess.

Argentina ended the tournament in fourth position, losing to South Africa 24-13 in the third-place play-off, but the head coach believes they are now obliged to increase their efforts and reach new heights.

"We had an extremely positive year and, in 2016, what has been achieved requires us to double or triple the effort," Hourcade told the Argentine Rugby Union's official website.

"We all know that here at the end of 2015 nothing ends, but another stage begins, another long-term process, which is [the Rugby World Cup] in Japan 2019."

On a personal level, Hourcade was elated to have achieved his dream of leading Argentina at a World Cup and hopes next year brings more positive experiences.

"In 2015 there were many very important moments in my life," he added.

"I am grateful to have experienced this year. What happened at Rugby World Cup 2015 is now starting to sink in.

"I dreamed about being the Pumas coach and taking the team to a World Cup all my life.

"I can say that I fulfilled a dream and now I can experience another equally as great."