Australia too strong for England Women
19th March 2006The listing was posted by ENGLAND BASKETBALL
Jane Thackray, on her birthday and in her 50th game for England, could not help England upset group and tournament favourites Australia as they suffered their first defeat of the games, 95 - 43, at the Geelong Arena.
It looked promising for England in the first quarter with Gillian D’Hondt showing strength inside and finished with 8 first quarter points, England were just edged out 21 – 17.
England fought hard in the second to keep up with Australia; however Australia’s Lauren Jackson showed just why she is one of the quickest players to score 1000 career points in the WNBA, she ended the half with 16 points as Australia extended their lead, 47 – 28.
England came out after the break and struggled at the offensive end managing only 8 third quarter points, as well as struggling to contain the Australian offence as they extended their lead to 33.
In the final quarter Australia once again showed their offensive power and came out winners 95 – 43.
Ann Zammit, England’s team manager commented, ‘We knew Australia were a strong team and they proved this tonight. We must learn from this but we need to move on. We have a rest day tomorrow and we will be focusing and preparing for our next game.’
Andrea Congreaves who missed England’s first game due to a back injury, was rested ahead of Tuesdays semi final, where England are likely to face New Zealand .
Australia 21, 26, 22, 26 95
England 17, 11, 8, 7 43
Scorers: Shelly Boston 12; Kristy Lavin 10; Gillian D’Hondt 9; Rosalee Mason 5; Sally Kaznica 4; Jo Sarajant 2; Jane Thackray 1