Georgian U18 Team have won a third match on the group phase of European Championship, which is a big step towards playoffs. The team trained by Temur Kankia defeated Ukraine and now takes a second place in the group. Georgia has one more rival – Ireland, who defeated Denmark today and has 2 victories and 2 loses after 4 rounds, just like Ukraine. Tomorrow, Georgia will play against Ireland in the last match of the group and will go to the playoffs in case of victory.
Georgia defeated Ukraine in a rather tense battle. Ukrainians were fighting and resisting well throughout the game until the last moment. Members of the Georgian team showed a fighting character and played well when the fate of the match was close to be decided.
After finishing first half equally, Georgians advanced in the third period, which was mostly due to the team-game. Most of the balls were scored by Rati Andronikashvili in that period and after winning this quarter 27:17, Georgians already had an important advantage before the final period – 64:54.
Georgians retained the leadership in the last period and didn’t leave a chance to Ukraine. Maximum achievement for Ukrainians was reducing the difference to 4 points. Eventually, Georgian Team won 85:73 and took the second place after undefeated Macedonia.
Rati Andronikashvili led the winners with 24 points. Anzor Nadiradze scored 11 points and 10 rebounds. Vladimer Tavaqarashvili had 12 points. Alexandre Merkviladze collected 10 points and 9 rebounds. Lasha Miqeladze scored 9 points.
Georgian Team will hold the final match tomorrow, on July 31, against Ireland.
