Denis Leamy calls for hard line on slow ball

Denis Leamy believes New Zealand receive preferential treatment from referees but expects Ireland's clash with Argentina to be handled more strictly.

Leamy has echoed the sentiments of back-row colleague Stephen Ferris, who was dismayed that the All Blacks escaped punishment for their cynical play at the breakdown last Saturday.

Referee Marius Jonker repeatedly warned the Tri-Nations champions for killing or slowing down the ball in their 38-18 victory in Dublin, but failed to produce a yellow card.

Argentina can be equally disruptive, but Leamy predicts they will be shown less leniency at Lansdowne Road on Sunday.

"Possibly there were times against New Zealand when there were cases for cards. New Zealand are very professional at slowing the ball. Argentina will be the same, but I imagine if they infringe as much as the Kiwis did, possibly we'll see a yellow.