Women’s Basketball AUSTRALIA BEATS N.Z.

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29301, 5 September 1960, Page 13

Women’s Basketball AUSTRALIA BEATS N.Z.

46-45 Victory In Sydney Test

(N.Z. Press Association—Copyright) 1 u 41.< SYDNEY, September 3. in brilliant sunshine today the Australian women’s basketball team defeated New Zealand in the third test by 46 to 45. The game was refereed by Anne Clark. The first quarter ended 10-9 in favour of Australia, New Zealand h ad U shots and Australia 19. Some vital passes went astray for New Zealand in this quarter and Australia* had the most of the bail. In the second quarter New Zealand missed four shots and Australia 10 for a half-time score of 23-all after several stoppages for injuries. including the Australian captain. who retired with a sprained ankle. New Zealand had -a lead of 21-17. but with brilliant field work Australia bridged the gap before the bell. On resumption of play New Zealand gained a two-goal lead and its passing movements were brilliant, with a quick delivery into the goal circle. Australia then teamed well and gained a four-goal lead. New Zealand tried to draw even, but the nearest it got was 32-33 and the quarter ended 34-36. With the score 37-42 and five minutes gone in the last quarter Australia appeared to be a certain winner, but New Zealand came again as its supporters expected and at 40-41 it was anybody’s game. Excitement over the last few minutes was terrific.

But for what appeared to be a misjudgment on the part of the referee with only 15 seconds left and the ball in New Zealand’s goal circle the match would almost certainly have ended in a draw. New Zealand’s shooting was superior, goaling being New Zealand 45 for 59 shots and Australia 46 for 83 shots. New Zealand was penalised repeatedly for held balls where obstruction penalties would have been awarded in New Zealand. The five-week tour has ended and the New Zealand team will arrive back in Auckland on Monday evening.