The United States took a giant stride towards ending their unwanted World Cup record during a pulsating opening period against Japan in Gosford.

French coach Bernard Laporte extended his congratulations to Japan after the Cherry Blossoms put up a heroic show in Townsville tonight.

Aurelien Rougerie claimed two tries as France swamped World Cup minnows Japan in emphatic style in their World Cup Pool B encounter at the Dairy Farmers stadium.

An almost full-strength French side lead spirited Japan by four points at half-time in their Pool B clash with Japan at Townsville.

Scotland assistant coach Pat Lam has admitted he would be bitterly disappointed if the team failed to reach the quarter-finals of the World Cup as they prepare for their opening match against Japan.