Rollers in Gold Medal Match

After their win against the USA 72-63, the Australian Rollers will face off against Canada in Saturday nights Gold Medal Match at North Greenwich Arena.

Perth’s Justin Eveson played a star hand for the Rollers recording 21 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists and was ably assisted by captain and fellow WAIS athletes Brad Ness (16 points) and Shaun Norris (15 points).

Brad Ness showed his experience right from the start, posting 10 points in the first quater to put the Aussies in an early lead.

Australian star and WAIS member Shaun Norris, said the Australians had to fight tooth and nail to overcome a determined US team.

“They pushed us all game and it was good to see that the determination and the process all stayed intact and we came through with a win. That’s basketball, you’ve got to try and think of it in a realistic sense, one’s going to come out and lose and one’s going to come out and win. You can only do your best and see where that takes you.”

Norris will have plenty to celebrate tonight, with his partner Amber Merritt of the Australian Gliders also progressing to the gold medal game after they likewise defeated the USA in their earlier semi-final.

“It’s quite difficult because you have to try and stay focused personally, whilst still trying to support each other individually. We don’t get to really see each other very often here but we send messages and stuff like that. I try not to be (competitive), she’s a good player in her own right. She plays a different style to me and she’s bigger than me. She’s fantastic for the women’s game and I think she’s a rising star and I’m only there to support her as she goes along. I think their game is just before ours so I’ll be there in spirit and I’ll be supporting her all the way.”

The Rollers have been undefeated throughout their entire London Journey and are sure to be the favourites for the gold.