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The Australian Rollers are one win away from sweeping their pool games while the Australian Gliders are back on track with a second victory over Japan in the quest to qualify for the 2016 Paralympics.

In an admitted mismatch, the Rollers used a 28-0 opening term to take control over the Philippines with a mixture of relentless defence and perfect execution in transition offence.

They continued to power away as the game wore on, running out 124-24 victors with five players reaching double-figures in scoring.

Brad Ness led the charge with 22 points and eight rebounds but was well supported by Adam Deans (nine points, nine rebounds, four assists) who monstered the Philippines in the key and allowed Ness to earn some well-earned rest ahead of the Semi-Finals in a couple of days.

Shawn Russell (15 points), Bill Latham (12 points), Tristan Knowles (11 points) and Tom O’Neill-Thorne (11 points, seven assists) also strongly contributed while low point rookies

Sam White and Matt McShane continue to impress as coach Ben Ettridge looks to the next crop of stars to carry Australia to further success.

Looking to bounce back from a loss to China, the Gliders were locked in a tight battle with Japan at half-time after their five-point lead at the first break was erased.

Shelley Chaplin (13 points) and Clare Nott (10 points) gave Australia the early advantage but once Japan found their physical game, they clawed their way back into the contest.

Following a tense third term in which neither side could gain the ascendancy, Cobi Crispin (a team-high 16 points) began to edge the Gliders ahead before a 23-10 fourth term finally gave them the breathing space they needed.

Japan were desperate in the final minutes, sending Australia to the free-throw line frequently but in a stoic finish to the game, the Gliders ran out 61-47 victors.

Today sees a rest day for the Gliders before they play China in their final pool group game.

The Rollers will play Malaysia in their final pool group game today at 6pm AEDT before the finals begin on Thursday.

By Basketball Australia

Posted: 14/10/2015