The Sasol AmaWheelies got their IWBF Men’s U23 World Championship challenge underway with a clash against the highly fancied USA team at the Centro de Treinamento Paralímpico Brasileiro in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
African Champions at U23 level and the continent’s sole representatives at the global showpiece, the young South African team lined up for the tournament’s opening game following months of hard work and preparation at their base in the south of Johannesburg, the Mandeville Sports and Indoor Club.
The first quarter was a highly contested affair with both teams showing great intensity and hunger however the more experienced Americans seized the initiative in the latter stages, ending the quarter with a 20-9 advantage.
The second quarter was an all-action affair with end-to-end action as both sides looked to take firm control of the game. The Americans were able to withstand the pressure from the South Africans and press home their advantage and go into the half time break at 42-16.
The second half was high energy from both teams as the Americans looked to close it out while the South Africans looked for a way back into the game. Both sides had ample shots as the defences slacked off a bit with the half ending 63-25 to the Americans.
With such a big advantage going into the final quarter, the Americans were able to close out the game 87-35 with the Sasol AmaWheelies not getting the start they wanted at the tournament.
“We know where to improve as a team, so we will be working on that especially our timing and blocking ahead of our next game”, concluded Coach Nichodemus Mmitlwe.
The South Africans will rue their missed opportunities but have established a solid foundation to build from as the tournament progresses. They will be up against another tough opponent on Friday, 13 June as they face Great Britain at 21h30 SA Time.
All matches are live streamed on the IWBF YouTube channel.
