The penultimate day of the tournament delivered more action-packed matches as teams battled for final standings. From the morning fixtures to the afternoon contests, every side showcased skill, determination, and resilience on court, keeping fans engaged from start to finish.
Northern Ireland opened the day with a commanding 49–29 win over Barbados in the 17th/18th placing match. Northern Ireland’s quick ball speed and high-intensity defence forced Barbados to move the ball constantly, creating space for turnovers and fast breaks. The defensive diamond in the middle third proved highly effective, producing key interceptions throughout the third quarter, while the attacking connections between their goal attack and shooter kept the scoreboard ticking. Barbados showed grit, tightening their defence in the second quarter and contesting every pass, but a suspension for their wing defence and too much open space left in the backline allowed Northern Ireland to maintain control and finish strongly.
In the 15th/16th placing match, Trinidad and Tobago overcame Gibraltar 45–34 in a competitive and physical contest. Gibraltar started with strong intent, matching their opponents goal for goal early on, with their shooting duo firing consistently and Davidson dominating the rebounds to create multiple opportunities. Trinidad and Tobago, ranked 11th in the world against Gibraltar’s 26th, had to work hard to gain a small lead, using smart movement and precise passing in the circle to break Gibraltar’s defence. Gibraltar continued to press and capitalise on turnovers, but Trinidad and Tobago’s composure and ability to convert under pressure ultimately secured the win.
The 13th/14th placing match saw Tonga narrowly edge Singapore 50–47 in a fast-paced, nail-biting encounter. Tonga’s early speed, precise long passes, and tight defensive pressure gave them the advantage, with their goal shooter creating excellent space under the post. Singapore fought back brilliantly, closing the gap to just two goals in the second quarter and trailing 29–24 at halftime. Their shooters remained calm under pressure, sinking long-range efforts, while their defensive unit produced key interceptions that kept the game within reach. Tonga’s ability to maintain composure, make quick decisions in the circle, and exploit turnovers proved decisive in the final stages.
In the 11th/12th placing match, Fiji claimed a hard-fought 56–48 victory over Malaysia in a high-intensity game. Fiji opened strongly with early interceptions and long passes to their shooters, while Malaysia responded with accurate long-range shots and smart use of rebounds to stay competitive. The first half was tightly contested, with Fiji holding a narrow 27–25 lead at halftime. In the third quarter, Fiji’s defensive pressure and fast transitions forced errors, while their shooters converted consistently. Malaysia fought back in the final quarter with solid teamwork and persistence in the circle, but Fiji’s composure, quick decision-making, and ability to capitalise on every turnover ultimately sealed the win.
The afternoon concluded with Samoa defeating Wales 67–53 in the 9th/10th placing match. Wales started strongly, narrowly winning the first quarter 15–14 thanks to the defensive duo of Affley and Blackwell. Samoa gradually found their rhythm, using excellent feeds from their wing attack and centre to unlock Wales’ circle. Despite Wales’ solid defensive efforts and persistent fight, their shooting accuracy was inconsistent, allowing Samoa to extend the lead steadily through the second half. Samoa’s pace, sharp attacking combinations, and clinical finishing ensured they finished strongly, leaving a positive note for their final tournament standings.
With the placing matches 9th-18th concluded, attention now turns to the finals. Tomorrow promises four high-stakes matches, starting with Cook Islands facing Malawi in the 7th/8th placing match, followed by Jamaica against Scotland for 5th/6th place. The 3rd/4th placing match will see England clash with South Africa, while the all-important grand final will pit New Zealand against Australia in a sold-out Europa Sports Complex. With top teams, top talent, and a packed stadium, it promises to be an unforgettable final day at the NWYC2025.
ENDS
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