Jennings helps Aussies run riot over French

Published: 7:45AM Sunday November 08, 2009 Source: AAP

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The Kangaroos have thrashed France 42-4 to secure a place in the final of rugby league's Four Nations tournament.

It was 21-year-old Michael Jennings who helped the side on their way after bagging the first two tries of the game to set the Kangaroos on course for a comfortable win in Paris.

Jennings completed his hat-trick as Australia hammered home their advantage in the second-half.

The French did hold out for 22 minutes before Jennings crossed twice in the space of five minutes to set the Kangaroos on course for a comfortable win.

Luke Lewis went over to score shortly after the break with Brett Morris grabbing two tries in five minutes to hammer home the Australian advantage.

And although Olivier Elima grabbed a consolation score for France, Jennings registered his third try of the game before Josh Morris crossed twice to match his twin brother's haul.

But after the disappointment of the World Cup final, coach Tim Sheens called on his side to step up another gear in next weekend's final.

"We were ok, we got the win and we scored some tries but I don't think we really got going," said Sheens.

"In the first-half we were too sloppy and there were too many times where we knocked-on or we dropped the ball or we missed the pass.

"I made it clear at the break that I wasn't happy with the way we were playing and I asked them to go out and play like an Australian team should.

"To be fair to the players they improved but I still don't think we really found our true level and that is something we'll have to rectify next week.

"I don't think whoever we play we'll be able to play like that and win.

"No disrespect to France but just because we did enough to beat them it doesn't mean we did enough to satisfy me.

"I think Michael Jennings played well and when it comes to picking my team that will be in my thoughts."

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