Great Britain Men were able to overcome a tough nut to crack in Italy – persevering through a low-scoring opening quarter and coming out 40-61 winners.

After almost five minutes gone, there had been a mere two points scored – both free throws from Phillip Pratt and then Harry Brown. A scrappy game to say the least, with both teams struggling to find their rhythm.

Great Britain were then immediately put under intense pressure in the second quarter, with Italy starting fast and scoring seven points. Determined to keep their opponents at bay, Great Britain managed to keep their lead to at least four points, then reasserted themselves to go into half time at 19 – 31.

In a game where shot conversion didn’t quite hit the heights of previous games, Gregg Warburton top scored with an impressive 18 points. Phillip Pratt was equally influential, 11 points and a remarkable 9 assists, never losing energy to drive attacks despite playing every minute of the game.

Great Britain made their customary mass substitutions going into the final quarter, in a bid to maintain high energy as Italy chased the game from behind. Before long, the game was out of the Italians reach, a pair of expert free-throws from Harry Brown ensuring another big win in the group stage.