(Beijing, January 21) The Australian team, in the second round of the "Good Luck Beijing" 2008 Wheelchair Basketball International Invitational Tournament, defeated Canada, its rival in the final of the 2004 Paralympic Games, 57-46 this afternoon at the National Indoor Stadium.

The score stayed close in the first half as Canada led 13-10 after the first quarter and extended its lead to 25-20 into the locker room.

Australia connected on a 3-pointer with several seconds remaining in the third period to cut the deficit to 37-34.

In the decisive quarter, the Australians erupted for a 15-4 run in seven minutes to rally 48-41 before Canada moved close to 48-46. Again, Australia set the pace to pose a 9-0 run for the ensuing 57-46 win.