DESPITE their courageous efforts the Fiji Selection side could not hold back the relentless attacks of the China U18 women's team and was beaten convincingly 84-43 at the Vodafone Arena in Suva last night.

The China side were very critical in initiating their transition offensive play effectively throughout the game and this kept the Fijians on the backfoot throughout the game.

The China U18 team had previously toured New Zealand and Australia earlier this year and they won all their Test matches in both countries.

But the Fijians kept in touch with America-based duo Valerie Nainima, Miliakere Koyamainavure and New Zealand-based Vilisi Tavui leading their charge.

Despite the 41-point margin, the scoreboard did not reflect how brave and determined the Fijian girls played against the much experienced world No. 4 and current No.1 ranked team in Asia.

As described by head referee Nicolas Fernandes the game was very intense at the beginning where it saw the Fijians closing the first quarter with just an 11-point margin behind the Chinese team on 22-11. After second quarter the margin had slightly increased to 15 point, then further increased until fulltime.

Fiji Basketball vice-president Ned Taito said he was very proud of the Fijian players.

"They did good and they played very well to hold the Chinese team," Taito said.

Fiji Selection's coach Laisiasa Puamau said it was all positive for them considering that they played against one of the top teams in the world.

The second game between the two teams will be played at 10am this morning at the Vodafone Arena.

Source: The Fiji Times Newspaper

Thursday 22nd September 2016