Buenos Aires, Aug 18 (IANS): Giants River Plate was defeated 0-1 by San Martin de San Juan in the Argentina Primera Division championship.

River who came fresh from victories in the Copa Libertadores and the Copa Suruga Bank were unable to carry forward their winning streak and climb to the top of the rankings to join Boca Juniors and San Lorenzo de Almargo that have 43 points each, reports Efe.

After its loss on Monday, River Plate is now in third position with 37 points and one game remaining.

The only goal of the game was scored by Facundo Pumpido in the 51st minute.

In another match, Quilmes handed a 3-1 defeat to Rosario Central that occupies sixth place with 36 points.

Meanwhile, Boca Juniors and San Lorenzo secured 2-1 wins in their respective matches against Arsenal and Crucero del Norte Sunday cementing their lead in the tournament at 43 points.

A day earlier, Racing Club beat Union in Santa Fe to hold on to the third spot at 37 points, together with River Plate and Belgrano that defeated Tigre 1-0.

Independiente that notched its sixth win, has 35 points, one less than Rosario Central.