BT PWC 2012: Britain fight back to keep gold hopes alive

By Paul Eddison in Manchester, Sportsbeat

GREAT Britain produced a dramatic comeback to seal their place in the final of the men's wheelchair basketball against the USA at the BT Paralympic World Cup in Manchester.

COMEBACK KINGS: Simon Munn was decisive for Great Britain as they fought back to win at the BT Paralympic World Cup

The Americans' narrow victory over Germany earlier in the day left Britain knowing that a win over Japan would be enough to take them into tomorrow's final.

But trailing 30-21 at half-time it looked like it was all going wrong for the Brits who have endured a mixed tournament so far.

Head coach Murray Treseder clearly found the right words to inspire his team as Simon Munn finished with 20 points in a 59-50 success.

Ian Sagar also contributed 19 points for the Brits who will be seeking revenge for yesterday's 70-40 loss to the States.

Abdi Jama, who chipped in with four rebounds and an assist, said after: "We were a bit worried because we were missing a lot of shots and our shooting percentage was a lot lower than we were expecting.

"In the changing room we knew we could get back and fight. We're nicknamed ‘The Bulldogs' and bulldogs never give up so we dug deep and it showed in the end."

Earlier in the day the British ladies picked up a third defeat in as many days as they slipped to a 52-42 defeat to Germany.

It was an improved performance from Britain after losses to the USA and Australia and Helen Freeman, who scored six points insisted there were positives to take from the game.

She said: "It was a good performance, we made a few defensive lapses that cost us but we've improved through the tournament."

The BT Paralympic World Cup is taking place in Manchester from 22-26 May with elite international athletes competing in Athletics, Football 7-aside and Wheelchair Basketball. Go to www.btparalympicworldcup.com for tickets and more information.

©Sportsbeat 2012