France coach Bobbie Goulding remained proud of his players despite watching his side crash out of the Gillette Four Nations with a 62-12 defeat by New Zealand in Toulouse.

The French, who were without six players because of illness, injury and suspension from the side that lost to England in their opening match, trailed only 16-12 after 42 minutes but conceded eight tries in a one-sided second half.

"We've had a go," Goulding told Sky Sports. "The lads showed great commitment and effort.

"We've been slapped in the face by controversy this week with bad knees and suspensions but I'm really proud of my players.

"We showed great heart but the game lasts for 80 minutes, not 40.

"We've got Australia next week so it doesn't get any easier."

Winger Sam Perrett scored a hat-trick of tries and others came from Jared Waerea-Hargreaves (2), Lance Hohaia (2), Junior Sau, Frank Nuuausala, Benji Marshall and Bryson Goodwin, who also kicked nine goals for a personal haul of 22 points.

The Kiwis will now meet England in Huddersfield next Saturday for a place in the Elland Road final on November 14.

Sebastien Martins and James Wynne scored France's tries and Thomas Bosc kicked two goals.