BIRMINGHAM, Sept 27 — Australia overcame some spirited, if ultimately futile, resistance to score 11 tries in a 65-3 Rugby World Cup victory over Uruguay at Villa Park today.

Winger Drew Mitchell and flankers Ben McCalman and Sean McMahon each scored two tries as the Wallabies, who led 31-3 at halftime, proved far too strong for the plucky South Americans.

But Uruguay, despite the obvious gulf in class, put up a gutsy showing against an Australia who had rested the majority of their first-choice players ahead of Saturday’s clash with hosts England at Twickenham.

Australia have won their opening two Pool A matches and lead Wales on points difference at the top of the standings, ahead of England, Fiji and Uruguay. — Reuters