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Deans ready for the Boks

Saturday 05th July 2008

Giteau: 'There's no doubt we're starting to get a lot more cohesion'

Australia coach Robbie Deans declared his side ready for a tilt at the Tri-Nations after seeing his charges notch up a series-clinching 40-10 victory over France in Brisbane on Saturday.

The win, albeit over an under-strength and bedraggled pack of tourists, was the Wallabies' most impressive performance yet under their new coach.

A second-half double to replacement back Ryan Cross capped off a dominant display as the hosts stormed to their biggest-ever win against Les Bleus in the 38th meeting between the two nations.

Matt Giteau was superb throughout, kicking eight from eight with the boot and delivering the final ball for each of the Wallabies' four tries.

But the victory came at a cost for the hosts with James Horwill (eye), Berrick Barnes (shoulder) and Cameron Shepherd (ankle) all suffering injuries.

"Each week we are taking steps and making some progress," said Deans.

"We're very conscious that the next arena will be very different. It will be another level, there's no doubt about that, but the guys are ready for that.

"They've [France] had a long season and I think they're looking forward to their vacation.

"But whilst the French are looking forward to going home they still make you earn it...which is shown by the casualty list."

Giteau was also buoyed by the manner of the win.

"I think that as a side we just went back to basics tonight," he said.

"We played a simpler game plan and that's what works best for us.

"There's no doubt we're starting to get a lot more cohesion now."