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Billy Slater was the star of Australia's strong finish in its 46-16 win over England in the Four Nations final on Sunday, claiming a quickfire hat-trick to help the Kangaroos try tally to eight.

Cameron Smith and Jarryd Hayne also scored while Johnathan Thurston kicked seven goals.

Australia coach Tom Sheens said: "It was hard work, real hard work, although the scoreline blew out a bit at the end."

"In the first half we were a little bit in front and in the second half we really worked hard on our line."

"They had some good ball and put us under pressure."

"Then we snuck out, snuck out again and once we got the 12 points we started to play some footy. But up to that point it was very difficult."

The game looks likely to have marked the end of Australia captain Darren Lockyer's international career.

The Brisbane Broncos legend, who won a national record 50th cap in the victory, said: "I think the team is back here in a couple of years but my gut feeling is I won't be back here playing for Australia."

Meanwhile, Tony Smith felt his England side deserved better for an outstanding effort.

England led three times in a compelling encounter at Elland Road but were eventually overrun as Australia - leading just 22-16 after 66 minutes - finished strongly.

Smith said: "Scoreline-wise we are disappointed. I'm not sure if it really reflects the game."

"It probably reflects some of the special individuals Australia have."

"They have the ability to score special tries and they did that at the end - that blew the scoreline out."

"But for 60 minutes of that game it looked like it could have gone either way."

"It's probably an advancement for us in terms of what we have done against Australia - better, but not good enough."

South Sydney-bound Sam Burgess scored two brilliant tries and Peter Fox also touched down as England relished the challenge, but each time Australia came back.

Brett Morris cancelled out the opener with the first of his double and a controversial Greg Inglis try - the centre ruled to have touched down just inside the dead-ball line by the video referee - put Australia in front at the break.

Smith added: "I need to go and review that but it was puzzling."

"There were a couple of puzzling decisions, but we're not using that as an excuse."

"You have to be able to overcome those decisions. That is the beauty of sport."

"I'm really proud of the effort put in by the players. They have been outstanding throughout this series."

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