In their opening match of the IWBF U25 World Championships, the Australian Devils have recorded a 50-26 victory over Japan.
Australia set the tone early in the match with their full-court pressure causing a number of Japanese turnovers and offensive opportunities.
Sarah Vinci and Ella Sabljak were relentless on defence, causing the Japanese low-pointers all types of frustrations as the Devils opened up a 20-point advantage by quarter-time.
Japan controlled the ball better in the second term but after Amber Merritt and rookie Georgia Munro-Cook dominated inside, coach David Gould was able to rotate through his entire roster, giving 17-year old Jess Cronje and Hannah Dodd valuable court time.
With a 40-13 lead at half-time, 14-year old Georgia Bishop-Cash and Cronje played the entire third quarter.
New South Wales junior Catherine Nelson then received her first international action in the final term as the Devils ran out comfortable winners. Merritt top-scored with 22 points and seven rebounds while Munro-Cook (12 points) also reached double figures.
With 11 rebounds, Dodd controlled the boards while Georgia Inglis capably controlled the pace of the match with five assists. Australia will hit the court against Great Britain in their second match of the tournament today.
Australia 50 defeated Japan 26
Q1: 26-6
Q2: 40-13
Q3: 46-19
Q4: 50-26
