Tthe Rollers are through to the semi finals of the Asia Oceania Championships as they vie for qualification for the 2024 Paralympics.

 

Australia were far too strong in their quarter final, beating Saudi Arabia 92-20.

 

The Rollers jumped out to a 28-4 first quarter lead, Just Better Care Roller Hawk Tristan Knowles inflicted much of the early damage, scoring 13 in the opening period including 3 of 4 from three point range.

 

But the Aussies weren't done there. After Iran and Japan racked up big quarter final wins earlier in the day, the Rollers looked to send a message of their own, shutting Saudi Arabia down completely in third, 25-0, followed by a 23-6 fourth quarter.

 

Knowles finished with a game high 22 points on 9/10 shooting while Shawn Russell had 20 points on 10/12 shooting.

(Photo Credit: Sportshooter / IWBF)

 

The Rollers now face Korea who edged out China 51-50 in their quarter final.

 

The Rollers accounted for Korea 63-50 in the pool games but will take nothing for granted now that they’re at the business end of the tournament.

 

A win against the Koreans will set up a Gold Medal game against either Japan or Iran, teams the Rollers had their toughest games against this week. 

 

They defeated the reigning Paralympic silver medalists, Japan 49-48 and won a physical battle against Iran 69-60.

 

It’s been tougher going for Australia’s women’s team, the Gliders, who were in a three team Pool A alongside China and Japan. 

 

Australia lost its four pool games but fortunately all three teams still made the semi finals with the winner of Pool B qualifying as the fourth team.

(Photo Credit: Sportshooter / IWBF)

 

Australia led at halftime in both their games against Japan and will look to build on that when they meet them in the semi final. China will play Thailand in the other semi.

 

The tournament winner will book their ticket directly to Paris, while second and third qualify for a repechage in April.