GREAT Britain’s Worcester-based women’s wheelchair basketball team secured third place in the Continental Clash with a 62-56 win over 2014 world champions Canada.

The tournament was held at the University of Worcester Arena, where GB’s future Rio Paralympians meet to train.

GB led 15-14 at the end of the first quarter and fine composure from Helen Freeman ensured a 31-10 advantage at half-time.

Canada hit back and were ahead before GB levelled at 46-46 going into the final quarter.

They then fought off several comebacks from the visitors to secure the bronze medal.

GB were denied a final place after the Netherlands booked a match with Germany, which they won 58-54, by beating the hosts 65-47.

Other games for GB produced a 62-37 thrashing of France following a 61-51 defeat to 2012 London Paralympic champions Germany.

The team includes University of Worcester student Sophie Carrigill.

GB will compete in Pool A at Rio against Canada, Germany, hosts Brazil and qualifiers Argentina.

USA, Netherlands, France, China and Algeria are in the other group.

Head coach Miles Thompson said: “Our preparation and tactics are the same for any outcome of the draw.

“We will focus on our own game and win as many matches as possible to increase our chance of making the all-important semi-final.

“The pools look very even and appear well balanced.”

The men, who also train at Worcester, will tackle Iran, USA, Germany, Algeria and Brazil in Pool B next month.

Australia, Canada, Turkey, Netherlands, Japan and Spain make up the other group.