The women defeated Germany 48-46 in their final at the Sydney Olympic Park State Sports Centre.

They had led 31-27 going into the final quarter, and the game continued to hang on a knife-edge until a late foul by Germany's Marina Mohnen (pictured above).

Amber Merritt (pictured below) then converted from the free-throw line to secure victory for the hosts, to finish as their top scorer in the game with 14 points.


"Germany were very hungry, so for us, it was all about keeping composure," Australian captain Bridie Kean said.

"We all knew our jobs and I was just so happy that every player on our team did their job today.

"I feel like the luckiest person in the world right now.

"I have to pinch myself on a daily basis.

"We have such an amazing group of girls playing on this team and we are setting off in three weeks to London to play for gold at the Paralympics.

"It's hard to describe the excitement I'm feeling."

The men then beat Britain 70-64 to claim victory.

Australia's men led at the end of each quarter in their final but Britain were always in the match despite that.

The lead changed 16 times during the course of the game, with captain Brad Ness (pictured below) scoring 16 times as Australia eventually secured victory.

Justin Eveson notched 18 and Shaun Norris another 16.


"I'm very happy," Ness said.

"We're building nicely towards London, there is a great synergy amongst our whole group and now it is all about taking care of business in London.

"It's been a great hit-out for us here.

"Great Britain will be disappointed with that result, but with the home town behind them at the Paralympics and the atmosphere surrounding a home Games, they will be a different outfit in a couple of weeks.

"They will pump up.

"A few of their big guys weren't at their best here, but you can be sure they will be ready to go in London which is when it matters most."

Australia won gold at Beijing 2008, and will face the United States, Italy, Spain, Turkey and South Africa in their pool at the Paralympics in London.

The other group sees Britain take on Japan, Poland, Colombia, Germany and Canada - runners up in 2008.

The Australian women will look to improve on their bronze medal from 2008 when they face hosts Britain, Canada, the Netherlands and Brazil in their group.

The other women's pool features reigning champions the United States, Germany, China, France and Mexico.

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