Australia claimed the Test series against France with a 17-2 win in Bordeaux after several setbacks in regional matches.

The Kangaroos suffered shock losses to Albi and then Carcassonne/Lezignan after having claimed the First Test 20-19 in Paris.

It said a lot about the depth of talent in France in those days, but also reflected on a hectic match and travel schedule for the Australians. And then of course, there were the home town referees.

Winger, Eddie Lumsden had scored all three of Australia’s tries in the Paris Test, but the spoils were shared in the return encounter in Bordeaux with Harry Wells, Johnny Raper and Brian Carlson crossing, while Keith Barnes kicked four goals.

France’s only points came from the boot of Claude Mantoulan from the Roanne club, who had replaced dual rugby international, Pierre Lacaze’ at fullback.

The crowd at Bordeaux was a disappointing 8,848, but French authorities would kill for that crowd in the city now, given the struggles of the 13 man game in the face of the powerful Bordeaux/Begles rugby union club.