Australia's relentless offence made a winning difference as they defeated Britain 67-54 and advanced to the final of Paralympic men's wheelchair basketball on Sunday at the National Indoor Stadium.
Led by forward Justin Eveson and guard Shaun Norris, who combined for 41 points, Australia hit approximately 55 percent of their field goals and two-point shots.
Australia had thrashed Britain 67-48 in the preliminary game.
"In the preliminary, we had a good win. But this time, it's close to the gold medal round. It's a much more important win for us. We lacked some intensity in the second half, but we finally won and that was what we wanted," said Eveson.
"We've got 12 guys who are ready to shed their blood (and put) sweat and tears on the line every game. We don't know whether Britain has that, but we have that, and it's what makes us strong. It's our 'Honey Badger' (team mascot) attitude.
"We don't know whether Canada will get into the final. The United States has taken two days off. We will watch the game and the video in training tomorrow," added Eveson.
Two other Australian players scored in the double digits.
"Whether it's Canada or USA, our strategy doesn't change. I was really pleased that all the hard work that I have done in the last four years have paid up for me and we are going to take the next step and know that all the hard work was for something," said Eveson.
"I will rest up and recover tomorrow and watch some videos. In the final, I will play any role that is necessary, no matter what it is - to score points or stop them in defence.
"I push really hard. I'm not very tall but I work really hard for my team."
Britain averaged a 40 percent success rate for their field goal and three-point shot attempts. Guard Jon Pollock was the top British scorer with 18 points, and the only British player to score more than eight points.
Australia advanced to the gold medal game, against the winner of the United States versus Canada match taking place later on Sunday.
Britain went to the bronze medal match against the loser of the another semifinal. Both medal games will take place Tuesday at the National Indoor Stadium.
(Xinhua News Agency September 14, 2008)