Third Win for GB Juniors in final Pool game
GB Juniors won their final pool game against Sweden 53 – 44.
In their previous 2 games, Sweden were very efficient in their scoring and defence defeating Belgium by 21 points and Turkey by 20. Sweden’s main scorers have been number 8 Lindblom and number 11 Blomqvist. To have any chance of success in this game, Great Britain had to go out and limit the scoring of these two players.
The game was played at high intensity by both teams and both going score for score. Lee Manning was in foul trouble early on and was taken out after 5 minutes with two fouls. Kyle Marsh maintained GB’s scoring with 6 points with the quarter ending 12 – 11 to GB.
The second quarter was similar with both teams playing high intensity defence and giving up very little except long range outside shots. GB ran its press unit for part of the quarter which was very effective. Lee Manning picked up his third foul and was out most of the quarter. Kyle Marsh again scored well with 7 points and Helen Freeman added with 4 points. GB finished that quarter 13 – 12 to lead 25 – 23 at the half.
Lee Manning being 1/1 from the field and 3 fouls needed to produce a good performance in the second half to support the team and he obliged. Going back to the starting line up, Lee got the scoring going early, ending the quarter with 9 points and Great Britaine finishing the quarter 15 – 12 to extend its lead 40 – 35.
The final quarter saw Sweden make a comeback and midway through they had tied the score, GB made changes to it’s pressing unit. Back with the starters, GB’s patient and active offence enabled Lee Manning to get inside on numerous occasions, where he received good passes to finish off. GB were able to extend its lead again and finished the quarter strongly with defensive intensity. Lee Manning added 8 points for GB to finish the quarter 13 – 9.
Performances again from Harry Brown and Kyle Marsh along with great contributions from the rest of the team helped limit Sweden’s key scorers with a great defensive effort. Lee Manning top scored with 19 points, 13 rebounds, Kyle Marsh followed closely behind with a valuable 17 points, Terry Yates with 6 points at 50% and11 rebounds and Harry with 7 points.
GB scored at 43% to Sweden at 39%. GB now play Spain tomorrow in the quarter final