Wade Graham starred for Australia with a four-try haul in the Kangaroos' 52-6 win over France.
Graham’s efforts saw him equal the record for most tries scored in a World Cup match with the Sharks star becoming just the fifth Australian to achieve the feat in Test match history.
But it didn’t come easy for the Australians who had to wait until the 21st minute to score first points.
“Mate that is something I’ve never dreamed of and I always wanted to play for Australia as a kid so I am blown away,” Graham said of his four-try performance.
“I wish I could explain it. To be able to get across the try line is a bonus."
France was brave and trailed 10-6 late in the first half before the flood gates opened in the second stanza.
The Kangaroos enjoyed 60% of possession in the 10-try to one effort.
The lopsided score line does not give credence to the foreigner’s strong efforts in defence with the Aussies certain to be bruised tomorrow after some monster hits from the French.
“We are a work in progress and we took some steps tonight and we will work on a few things during the week,” Graham said.
France were good with the ball despite struggling for points with an 80% completion rate compared to Australia’s completion rate of 78%.
Australian captain Cameron Smith, who equalled Clive Churchill’s record for 36 straight games for the Kangaroos, praised France for their strong efforts.
“Our first half was patchy and some soft errors there but we finished the game nicely,” Smith said.
“But, I thought the French were outstanding with their attitude in defence and they played really well so good on them.”
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