Former Wallabies star Matt Giteau has enjoyed his first win with French Top 14 club Toulon.
The 92-Test ace teamed with English World Cup winner Jonny Wilkinson as Toulon climbed to third spot on the ladder with a 34-12 victory over Agen on Tuesday.
Toulon's tries came courtesy of Gabriele Lovobalavu in the third minute, Jone Tawake (38), Leo Senatore (46) and Konstantine Mikautadze two minutes from time.
Twenty-four hours after he announced he was quitting the international scene, Wilkinson added 12 points from four penalties, but also missed several other goals including all three conversion attempts.
The 2003 World Cup hero collected his penalties for Bernard Laporte's side in the 10th, 21st, 23rd and 55th minutes before the fly half received a standing ovation when he was replaced with 18 minutes left.
After the game Laporte, talking about Wilkinson's decision to concentrate on club rugby, remarked: "It was his decision, there was no pressure (from Toulon), but it's all the better for the club.
"He's 32, he took the wisest decision. If he had decided to continue he had more to lsoe than to gain. I wasn't surprised by his choice."
Laporte added: "It's not insignificant to end an international career like his. I'm sure he is emotional and must still be thinking about it."
Toulon moved on to 35 points, five behind second-placed Clermont with table toppers Toulouse on 43.
Agen are fifth with 32 points.
AFP
Tags: rugby-union, sport, france First posted December 14, 2011 12:07:45
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