The Australian Paralympic Wheelchair Rugby team, the Steelers, orchestrated an amazing upset victory in yesterday’s grand final to lift the 2008 International Wheelchair Rugby Super Series trophy.

The Australians upstaged hot favourites Canada 46-44 in a dramatic decider at Aqualink, Box Hill, giving the Steelers a massive morale boost on their journey to the Beijing Paralympic Games in September.

With the Super Series trophy in his keeping, Australian coach Brad Dubberley was delighted with his team’s performance throughout the four-day tournament and hopes it is a sign of things to come as the Steelers chase their second Paralympic Games medal. The team won silver at the Sydney Paralympic Games in 2000.

“How could you not be ecstatic after a gutsy win like that,” Dubberley said.

“We were behind but we fought hard the whole way. We had some calls go against us but the boys dug deep like they did all week and it was enough to get us home.

“Obviously, the way things are going, we are definitely looking at doing big things at the Paralympic Games, we showed how dangerous we can be.

“A win like that is huge for our confidence. To come from behind is hard regardless of the game, but in a final, it was a massive effort and a game that will do the boys wonders.“Bring on the Paralympics!”

Canada held a 12-11 advantage at quarter time, and after the Australians took a lead into both half-time and three-quarter time intervals, the classy Canadian outfit regained the lead in the fourth quarter to set the scene for a thrilling finale.

But inspired by some rousing support from their home fans, the Steelers showed immense grit and spirit in the closing stages to wrestle back the ascendancy.

The Super Series’ most valuable player, Australia’s Ryley Batt, was the difference in the final minute, scoring two vital goals to ensure the Super Series trophy remained on Australian shores.

While Batt did the bulk of the scoring, it was the whole-team effort that most pleased the Australian coach.

“Everyone played their part, the team spirit was amazing,” Dubberley said.

“Every player worked hard for each other and that’s what makes us a hard team to beat.”

Greg Smith, Nazim Erdem, Scott Vitale and Cameron Carr also delivered superb performances in the final to seal the upset triumph.

In the bronze medal match, Great Britain beat Japan 35-31.

The triumphant Australian team is Bryce Alman (VIC), Ryley Batt (NSW), Grant Boxall (WA), Shane Brand (VIC), Cameron Carr (QLD), Nazim Erdem (VIC), George Hucks (SA), Steve Porter (SA), Ryan Scott (SA), Greg Smith (VIC), and Scott Vitale (QLD). Head Coach Brad Dubberley (NSW), Team Manager Kim Ellwood (WA).

Further information: Australian Paralympic Committee (02) 9704 0500 or visit: www.paralympic.com.au

(26 May 2008)