With relegation imminent the only thing left for GB’s U20 Women to play for is pride, and they nearly pulled off a shock defeat of Italy on Saturday before losing 69-58.

 

The loss puts Great Britain at 0-5 in the relegation table and with only the top team going through (which will be the Italians), Latvia and Portugal will join GB in Division B next year.

 

GB put a scare into Italy in the first half, however, as an Erin McGarrachan jumper gave the British a 30-21 lead midway through the second quarter, forcing a timeout from the opposition.

 

Italy then strung together a 9-0 run but by the half GB were 33-31 in front after a Jess Hurd made free throw.

 

The game remained nip and tuck in the third period but a 22-13 fourth quarter for the Italians ensured they would go into their final game of the tournament with a perfect record and their place in Division A for next season secured.

 

Jess Hurd, who currently lies second overall in the European Championship field goal percentage leaders at 51.4%, led Britain against Italy with 17 points; she also pulled in 12 boards. McGarrachan also had a British double-double with 14 points and 13 rebounds. McGarrachan is the tournament’s seventh top rebounder so far averaging 8.0 per game.

 

Francesca Dotto led Italy with 23 points.

 

GB’s final game of the tournament is on Sunday against Portugal.