Australia thrash France 40-10

By Julian Linden

BRISBANE (Reuters) - Matt Giteau scored 20 points in a brilliant solo performance to lead Australia to a record 40-10 win over an under-strength France in the second test at Lang Park on Saturday.

The Wallaby flyhalf landed four conversions and four penalties and had a hand in each of Australia's four tries as the Wallabies chalked up their biggest win against the French since the countries first met in 1928.

Replacement back Ryan Cross scored two second half tries while wing Peter Hynes and lock James Horwill both scored in the first as Australia eclipsed their 35-12 win over France in the 1999 World Cup final in Cardiff.

France, who made wholesale changes to their side after losing last weekend's opening test in Sydney by 34-13, rarely threatened the Australians but managed a last-minute consolation try from flyhalf Francois Trinh-Duc.

Australia, still adjusting to life under Robbie Deans, were more fluent and cohesive than in their two matches since the new coach took charge.

Their much-maligned forwards held their own against the French while their new-look backline finally clicked, with Giteau combining brilliantly with exciting new scrumhalf Luke Burgess.

The Wallabies did, however, pay a heavy price for their win, losing three more players to injury in their last run out before their opening Tri-Nations match against world champions South Africa in two weeks.

Reserve fullback Cameron Shepherd broke his left leg while Horwill (eye) and inside centre Berrick Barnes (shoulder) were both taken to hospital for examination.