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BRATISLAVA (FIBA U19 World Championship for Women) - Australia claimed a thrilling 85-79 victory over the Czech Republic to continue their impressive form in the FIBA U19 World Championship for Women.

The Group F rivals were separated by just one point with just over one minute remaining, but a seven-point haul from Australia in the final 90 seconds secured victory and left the Czech Republic with a huge task if they are to qualify for the knockout phase.

Both sides played out a fairly low key first period with Australia edging the opening stages to take a narrow 17-14 lead at the end of the first quarter.

And they started the second period in blistering fashion to gain a 34-25 advantage with four minutes remaining until the break.

However, their Czech opponents refused to give up the chase and took their chances to claim a surprise 40-37 lead at half-time.

The two teams continued to match each other as the game entered the second half and they could not be separated as they reached the final 10 minutes tied at 60-60.

But Australia, helped by a 20-point haul from Cayla Francis, proved to be the stronger side in the closing stages to secure a vital and enthralling win.

Drew Williams
FIBA