The Australian Sapphires did not let the cool wintry weather of New Zealand's southern most city, Invercargill upset their plans to win entry into FIBA's World Championship when they won the second game of the three game series 89 to59.

Australia established a good start in this game, opening up a 10 point lead halfway through the quarter which was extended to 16 at the first break. The second quarter was more of an arm wrestle, with the New Zealanders actually outpointing the Aussies 19 to 16. However some shutdown defence after the half-time break during which the Australians allowed only 9 New Zealand points and the Australians sank 23, presented the Australians with 68 to 41 scoreline going into the final period.

Scoring honours again went to the Australians with a 21 to 17 final period scoreline to hand them their second win in a row. If the scoreline indicates it was a one sided affair those at the stadium to see the game would not agree. Less that two minutes out from the halftime break the New Zealanders had closed to within 9 of the Australians and their coach Dean Kinsman was anxiously pacing the sidelines.

As she did in Game one, Australia's Renae Camino lead the scorers with 17 points, but Kathleen McLeod and Jenna O'Hea joined her in double digit scoring.

Lisa Wallbutton lead the New Zealand scoring with Angela Marino and Micaela Cocks also in double figures.

Australia 89 (45) defeated New Zealand 58 (32)

1st 2nd 3rd 4th Full
Australia 29 16 23 21 89
(29) (45) (68) (89) (89)

New Zealand 13 19 9 17 58
(13) (32) (41) (58) (58)

We are having some problems posting the box scores to our website. If we can not resolve this issue shortly we will as an alternative display the box score as html file for your information.