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The Australian Steelers suffered an agonising 49-48 loss against Canada in their opening match of the International Wheelchair Rugby Cup (IWRC) in Paris on Wednesday.
With three seconds left, Australian captain Chris Bond had one last chance to orchestrate a goal and send the thrilling contest into overtime, but his ambitious inbound pass intended for offensive powerhouse Ryley Batt was thwarted by a desperate fingertip deflection by Canadian talisman Zak Maddell.
The ball bounced out of Australia’s grasp, and with it, went their hopes of a strong start to the tournament featuring the top eight teams in the world.
The Steelers’ next match is against reigning Paralympic champions, Great Britain, on Friday (AEST).
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“That was a really high level game, we knew that was going to be the case,” Australian head coach Brad Dubberley said.
“Canada are a phenomenal team and have been playing really well recently. To come up against an opponent like that in the first game of a big tournament was always going to be a huge assignment.
“Now it’s about focusing on rebounding from this and being ready for Great Britain in our next game. That will be massive too.”
Scores were locked at 24-all in a fast, clean and brutal opening half, with both teams do their best to assert their physical dominance while conceding just two turnovers apiece.
The second half was even tighter, underlining pre-tournament predictions that all eight nations have strong medal hopes. After no turnovers from either side in the third quarter, there were just one each in the frantic final eight minutes.
“To only concede three turnovers shows that we are moving in the right direction at this early stage but ultimately the biggest difference was our game management,” Dubberley said.
“Canada scored last in three of the four quarters and that hurts in big games against good opponents.”
“Every team in our pool is capable of beating each other and we just have to take care of business now and win these next two games.”
“Looking ahead we have to make sure we close each quarter out, score last, apply pressure and get some good minutes into everyone. Ultimately we are here to improve and gain good experience.
While not the result Australia was chasing, the match will hold special memories for Beau Vernon, who made his international debut for the Steelers.
The 34-year-old father of three from Victoria, now based on the Sunshine Coast, beamed with pride as he received his Steelers jersey from his Australian captain. Moments later he was informed that he would be part of the Steelers’ starting line-up during the emotionally charged pre-match team meeting.
“Beau did really well in his first game. Obviously playing against Canada is a tough gig but he earned his spot and it was awesome that he started the game too,” Dubberley said.
“I’m exciting to see what his future holds in our team.”
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International Wheelchair Rugby Cup: Paris, France – 18 – 21 October, 2023
Australian Steelers – Fixtures (times in AEDT) – watch all matches live on the World Wheelchair Rugby YouTube Channel
Oct 18 – CAN 49 def AUS 48
Oct 20 @ 02:00 – AUS vs GBR
Oct 21 @ 00:00 – AUS vs DEN
Oct 21/22 – Semi-final Fixtures TBC
Oct 23 – Final Fixtures TBC
By: Tim Mannion, Paralympics Australia
Posted: 19 October 2023
Image: Megumi Masuda
