An amateur rugby club which was at risk of going under has been visited by the Mayor of Sutton as it welcomed a touring Argentinian side.

Mitcham and Carshalton Rugby Club, which has existed for more than 80 years, had to call an urgent meeting because it was in “terminal decline” last March.

And following their public appeal for more volunteers to save it from potential closure they were hit by several break-ins, resulting in thousands of pounds worth of damage.

But despite being on the verge of collapse the club has since rebounded and welcomed Facultad de Ingeneria del la Universidad de Buenos Aires (FIUBA) to south London for a tour match.

Mitcham and Carshalton were defeated on the day by a “well-drilled and athletic” FIUBA as the game finished 50-5, despite the hosts enjoying large amounts of possession.

But it was the “clinical performance” of FIUBA’s backs, as well as use of the wide positions, which helped them cruise to a comfortable victory.

Mayor of Sutton, Cllr Steve Cook, met with members of both teams following match before the sides were gifted with the Sutton plaque to commemorate the event.

Keir Waller, Mitcham and Carshalton’s co-chair, said: “We believe this is the first tour Mitcham have hosted from the Americas and it was an absolute delight to have them.

“They're a great bunch of lads and we wish them the best of luck in the rest of the season ad their UK tour.

“Saturday was all about two countries coming together, sharing cultures and celebrating the sport that we love.

“This has been a highlight this year and we welcome any touring rugby to visit Mitcham where they can experience some of the best hospitality south London has to offer.”