Jauzion hat-trick seals France win over Fiji

Full-time: France 61 Fiji 17

Yannick Jauzion claimed a hat-trick of tries as France opened their World Cup campaign with a convincing win over Fiji in Brisbane.

Christophe Dominici crossed twice and Imanol Harinordoquy and Raphael Ibanez also went over as an indisciplined Fiji side were worn down. Reliable kicker Frederic Michalak finished with 26 points.

Fiji’s brightest moment was a scorching try from Rupeni Caucaunibuca which brought them back within six points early in the second half.

Fiji began to let their frustrations get the better of them and an unseemly scuffle broke out which left Serge Betsen requiring treatment for a cut head.

Arms and fists flew in the melee and Olivier Magne and Caucaunibuca were both eventually sin-binned for their involvement.

France added to their tally and claimed a bonus point when Jauzion again linked with Marsh to claim his second and his side’s fourth try of the night.

The centre then completed his hat-trick seven minutes from time when he latched onto a Dominici pass. Raphael Ibanez and Dominici then went over to wrap up the win late on.