Dandenong Rangers take on the world: Alison Downie jumps above her Chinese opponent as the first of two international friendlies get under way.STRUGGLING to find rhythm after travelling 22 hours to Natong City, China, the Dandenong Rangers were no match for the Chinese national side, losing 91-69 in front of more than 3000 spectators.
Representing Australia in the first of two international friendlies, the Rangers were undersized compared to their world-class opponents and trailed 28-19 at quarter-time.
Caitlin Ryan was the stand-out for Dandenong, netting nine points by the first break.
World-class Chinese point guard Mird dominated the floor in the second quarter and scored at will from the perimeter.
Rangers’ point guard Kathleen McLeod put her body on the line and paid the price, copping an errant elbow from Chinese powerhouse Xysong.
McLeod was taken from the floor with a split lip.
The deficit blew out to 17 points as the Rangers trailed 54-37 at half-time.
Dandenong’s defence turned up the heat in the third term and held the Chinese offence to 17 points.
Jenna O’Hea lifted her output and the Rangers drew within 11 points after four minutes.
The deficit had been cut to 71-56 by three-quarter time.
But the comeback was not to be, as China, led by Mird with 23 points and Chen with 16, finished strongly to win 91-69.
Top scorers for the Rangers were Ryan (17), O’Hea (13) and Alison Downie (12).
The second match was played late yesterday (Wednesday), with the results unavailable when Star went to press.
