Silver Medal for WAIS Duo at 21U World Champs
Bruce, a WAIS athlete from Southern River, and Stanton, also on WAIS scholarship from Woodlands, helped the Australians remain undefeated going into the grand final after wins over Israel, Namibia, Fiji, South Africa, Barbados and then England in the semi-final. However they fell at the final hurdle, going down to New Zealand 52-47 in the final at Emirates Arena.
Both WA girls had strong tournaments, with Stanton opening the competition with 47 goals in a half against Israel.
New Zealand, crowned underage world champions for the third time, held off a second half comeback by Australia to win their first title since 2005.
“We gave it everything we possibly could, we just didn’t get enough turnovers today and convert as well as we needed to,” Australian coach Carol Byers said.
“It was about making sure we treasured the ball and getting it through the ring but it just didn’t work out for us today.”
Captain Maddy Proud said the defeat will provide motivation.
“It’s shattering because this day has been in the making for three years, we’ve dreamt about it for so long, it’s surreal, I don’t think it has sunk in yet that it’s all over,” Proud said.
“I’m so proud of the girls, they gave everything they had but New Zealand were just a better team on the day, I congratulate them for that, but I think this will be one of those games that we’ll never forget and make sure it never happens again.”
Australia’s Kimberley Ravaillion was named Player of the Championship.
-NetballWA