Bennett praises France

Wayne Bennett has praised the effort of France after his side defeated them 40-6 in his first game as England coach.

France grabbed a 6-0 lead before England took control in Avignon. In the previous fixture a year ago in Leigh England won 80-0.

“I wasn’t disappointed,” Bennett told PA Sport.

“I thought we handled it pretty well without blowing them away.

“I thought France tried really hard, they were really competitive and had good ball control.

“I was pretty pleased with all the new caps, I wasn’t disappointed with anybody tonight.

“But it hasn’t made my job of picking a side for next week tougher – I already had an idea of my team to face New Zealand anyway.”

James Graham was forced off late in the second half from a spear tackle.

“He’s a bit sick in there but the doctor say he should be okay,” Bennett said.