Brendan Cannon wraps up Frederic Michalak

"And big congratulations to the ones who came off the bench like Sean Hardman and Dan Vickerman."

The match was a see-sawing affair with Australia racing into a 13-0 lead, only to find themselves trailing 18-13 soon after the interval.

However, the Wallabies showed their class as they bounced back with a run of 18 unanswered points themselves before holding off a late French rally.

"We started really well, which probably hasn't been our trade mark, and probably dropped off near half-time, which has been our strength," said Gregan.

"The French bounced back really well, like we expected them to as Six Nations champions. They took it right down to the wire.

"We went a bit soft just before half-time and after the break, but we got it together again."

Crowd support

"We haven't been finishing games off particularly well so that's an area where we have improved."

Gregan also praised the 64,00 crowd which turned out to watch the encounter.

"The stadium and crowd were fantastic. It's a fantastic arena and we thank everyone here decked out in their green and gold.

"It is wonderful support and they really drive us on."