France defeats Australia 42-26 in Nations Championship rugby match
9 reported
France scored 30 unanswered points in the second half to defeat Australia 42-26 in round two of the Nations Championship in Brisbane. Australia led 21-12 at halftime after tries from Brandon Paenga-Amosa and two from Fraser McReight, following an early try by France’s Emmanuel Meafou, who was yellow-carded. Debutant Aaron Grandidier Nkanang scored two tries for France, with additional second-half tries from Romain Ntamack, Florian Verhaeghe, and Theo Attissogbe. Jeremy Williams scored a late try for Australia to secure a bonus point. The loss marks Australia’s sixth consecutive defeat, and they face Italy next week in Joe Schmidt’s final game as head coach before Les Kiss takes over. France, who lost to the All Blacks the previous week, earned their first win in Brisbane since 1972 and will play Japan in Tokyo next.
What’s reported
France beat Australia 42-26 in the Nations Championship round two match in Brisbane.
Australia led 21-12 at halftime.
France scored 30 unanswered points in the second half.
Aaron Grandidier Nkanang scored two tries on his debut for France.
Fraser McReight scored two tries for Australia.
Emmanuel Meafou was yellow-carded for a high tackle on Rob Valetini.
Australia’s loss is their sixth consecutive defeat.
Joe Schmidt will coach Australia for the last time next week against Italy; Les Kiss will take over.
France’s win is their first in Brisbane since 1972.
Key figures
Aaron Grandidier Nkanang (France debutant, scored two tries)
Fraser McReight (Australia, scored two tries)
Emmanuel Meafou (France, scored try, yellow-carded)
Joe Schmidt (Australia head coach, final game next week)
Les Kiss (incoming Australia head coach)
Harry Wilson (Australia captain)
Matthieu Jalibert (France full-back)
Karl Dickson (referee)
Sources: BBC News
