Rugby World Cup 2011: All Blacks finishing pleases Henry
Last updated on .From the section Rugby Union
New Zealand coach Graham Henry gave the All Blacks "eight out of 10" after they brushed aside France to clinch Pool A at the World Cup.
Israel Dagg crossed twice while Adam Thomson, Cory Jane and Sonny Bill Williams also went over in a 37-17 win.
"It was very pleasing, there were some good tries," said Henry.
"We finished pretty well at times. It's good to have a decent hit-out against some decent opposition, but we have a way to go yet."
The match marked captain Richie McCaw's 100th cap as he became the first All Black to bring up a century of appearances.
"It's just great to see Richie play his 100th game in a big match. He's delighted and so he should be," said Henry.
"In the All Blacks' Tests that I have been involved in over the last eight years, there's no doubt that he's number one.
"He's inspirational, leads by example and is a world-class player. He's been the number one player in the world three times and you can't do much better than that."
McCaw was pleased by the ruthless streak New Zealand showed at Eden Park during a match the All Blacks dominated for long periods.
"We realised we had to take a step up this week," said McCaw. "We had to absorb a fair bit early on and I was proud of the way the boys did that.
"When we got the opportunity, we put the points on the board.
"We have a fair way to go yet in the World Cup, but I'm looking forward to the next four or five weeks. Hopefully we can do something special."
France captain Thierry Dusautoir made no attempt to excuse Les Bleus' failings.
"We made too many mistakes," said the flanker. "We need to work hard again and we took away a good lesson in this game.
"Thanks to all the supporters who have come to support us. We will do better next time and be ready for the quarter-finals."
