FRANCE – The Canadian Women’s National Team was in a defensive battle in the first quarter versus Croatia, but when Canada was able to solve the Croatian defense early in the second quarter, Canada did not look back as they went on to win 66-49.

The Canadian Team had a balanced attack as Alisha Tatham (Brampton, ON) finished with a team-high 11 points and was followed by Tamara Tatham (Brampton, ON) who scored 10 points in the win. Miranda Ayim (London, ON) was one point short in recording a double-double, as she finished with a game-high 11 rebounds.

“It was a good overall performance from our team tonight,” said head coach, Allison McNeill. “I thought we did a much better job taking care of the basketball tonight.”

“Both teams grinded it out in the first half, which led it to be a low scoring and defensive opening half. In the second half we really got a lift off our bench,” added McNeill.

In the opening of the first half, Canada and Croatia were involved in a defensive struggle, as it took almost four minutes to see the opening points being scored in the game. Canada was down 15-10 after the first quarter. In the second quarter, Canada started clicking offensively as they stormed out with a 13-3 run to start the quarter and Canada grabbed the half-time lead, 28-24.

Into the second half of play, Canada continued to play great at both ends of the floor. In the third frame, Canada went on a 12-2 run to end the quarter and finished with a 46-31 lead. Canada continued to play well offensively and finished with 20 points in the final quarter, which made it tough for Croatia to make a comeback. Canada went on to win with the final score being, 66-49.

“I think our offence came together very well and our defense dictated the play,” said Canadian forward, Tamara Tatham. “We really picked it up in the second half, both offensively and defensively.”

The Canadian Senior Women’s National Team will play the Czech Republic tomorrow at 11:30 a.m. (EDT) and then the Canadian Team will play their final exhibition game before the FIBA World Olympic Qualifier on Saturday versus France. Tip-off for final game will be 2:00 p.m. (EDT).

‍