Steelers fight until the end

The Australian men’s wheelchair rugby team, featuring NSWIS athlete Ryley Batt, have fought valiantly to finish as runners-up at the 2013 Wheelchair Rugby Tri-Nations in Sydney late last week.

Playing in a purpose built arena outside St Mary’s Cathedral, the Australians went down 43-56 to the USA in the tournament’s opener before dominating New Zealand 62-48 to finish the opening day on a high.

The Australians then continued their strong form, opening day two with a win over New Zealand before shocking the USA 64-53 to secure a spot in the gold medal match.

However the Steelers couldn’t hold their form in the final, suffering a narrow 54-58 loss to the USA to finish runners-up in the first wheelchair rugby tournament to be held under lights on a purpose built outdoor court.

Batt was named tournament MVP for his stellar play, including 40 goals in the final.