Great Britain’s Men got through their sternest test of the European Championships to date with a hard-fought victory over Austria.

Despite starting well and approaching the second quarter with a 19-7 lead, Great Britain felt a strong response from Austria and went into half time narrowly in front.

Terry Bywater then scored 9 points in the third quarter to help Great Britain regain control of the game, ending the game second top scorer overall on 17 points, and also contributing 4 assists. Gaz Choudhry was the only player to better Bywater, netting 19. The game featured a number of strong challenges and a competitive atmosphere as Austria tried to put the GB team under as much pressure as possible.

Great Britain kept their cool throughout and put in a fantastically professional performance, able to capitalise on turnovers as Austria pressed high in attack – scoring 4 fast break points to Austria’s zero.

With a somewhat comfortable lead, it was five changes going into the final quarter of the game, and one substitute Kyle Marsh made an instant impact on proceedings, finding the net after just 13 seconds.

Great Britain remained strong until the last, racking up 13 points without reply until Austria opted to call a timeout in an effort to slow down the momentum of their opponents. Another win on the board from Great Britain who finished the game as 99 – 51 winners.