New Great Britain boss Tony Smith, got his reign off to a flying start as his young guns defeated France 42-14 in The Frontline Test match at Headingley Carnegie. Smith decided to rest a number of established internationals and played an inexperienced side, including five new caps, all with a chance of staking a long term claim in the International set-up.

In the opening exchanges France had looked the livelier side, although Britain had opened the scoring through a Danny McGuire try. But two tries from Pia stand-off, Maxime Greseque, saw France race into a 10-6 lead, and a chance of their first win over Great Britain since 1990. As the first half wore on, the home team settled into their game plan and tries for Leeds Rhinos' scrum-half, Rob Burrow and Bradford Bulls' Jamie Langley, saw Britain establish a 16-10 half-time lead.

The second half was a different story. Inspired by Warrington Wolves prop forward Adrian Morley, and Rhinos'  Kevin Sinfield, who was back in the international side for the first time in three years, the Lions scored five further tries. The game was effectively over within 10 minutes of the restart, when Sinfield’s creativity provided tries for Stephen Wild and captain Adrian Morley.

'After the game Smith singled out Morley and man of the match Sinfield for their inspirational performances'

Burrow then finished off the move of the match to score his second. London Harlequins centre, Paul Sykes also got his name on the score-sheet, adding Britain’s seventh try, and although second rower Eric Anselme scored a consolation try for the French, Britain completed the second-half rout when  James Roby went over for the eighth try.

After the game Smith praised the efforts of his young charges, singling out Morley and man of the match Sinfield for their inspirational performances. Smith was also encouraged knowing that there are players available to put pressure on the established regulars, who sat out the game.

Britain now begin preparations for the autumn Gillette Fusion Test Series against New Zealand, and this latest performance shows that the Lions' international future looks promising.