GB women to take on the World number 2 side in European semi
29th August 2009by Stephanie Gagne
The listing was posted by WheelPower - British Wheelchair Sport - News
A composed Great Britain side swept away the Spanish to reach the semi-finals of the 2009 FSB Women's Wheelchair Basketball European Championships with a ruthless first half performance.
Great Britain, shaking off some early nerves, put on an effective press, and forced the Spanish to turn the ball over numerous times. Unlike the previous few games, the team managed to capitalise when they were in offence, ruthlessly scoring inside and outside of the key to lead 18-4 at the end of the first quarter.
The second quarter continued in the same manner as the first, with Great Britain playing tight in defence, restricting Spain to only six points. Great Britain on the other hand added another 17 points to their score to lead 35-10, Helen Turner scoring 86% of her attempts at the basket.
With GB having a sizeable lead, Head coach Peel was able to rest players, giving the opportunity for some of his bench players to gain some minutes. The third quarter was a close affair, Britain edging it 14-12.
The game was effectively over by the last quarter with Spain enjoying their highest scoring period. Great Britain will be pleased that they overcame a fighting Spanish side in what could have been an awkward game, although they know that they will need to be at the top of their games to match the tournament favourites Germany this evening. Final score 56 - 35.
Leading scorers for Great Britain:
Helen Turner – 16 points
Helen Freeman – 11 points
Caroline Matthews, Louise Sugden, Clare Strange – 6 points