The Australian Wheelchair Rugby Team has opened its campaign at the Great Britain Cup in fine style, by posting victories overnight against Belgium and Japan in Cardiff, Wales.

Ranked number two in the world, and the top ranked team at the tournament, the Australians defeated Belgium 56-54, and then demolished Japan 61-50 to conclude day one, earning title favouritism in the process.

Most pleasing for Australian coach Brad Dubberley was the emphatic nine goal win over the world number three Japanese outfit, one of two major threats - along with New Zealand - standing between the Australians and qualification for the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

Only two countries from Oceania will qualify for the eight-team draw at next year’s Paralympics, with either Australia, Japan or New Zealand set to miss out. All three teams have enjoyed success at Paralympic Games and World Championships in recent years and are desperate to be there when the Games open in 358 days time.

With the Oceania qualifying tournament in November fast approaching, Dubberley acknowledges that the pressure is building which is why he was so impressed by his side’s opening day performance.

“We couldn’t have started this tournament much better,” Dubberley said.

“Belgium and Japan are two very good teams, and the fact that every athlete in our team contributed to the two wins was very pleasing.”

Dubberley paid particular praise to Chris Bond, Ben Newton and Cody Meakin, who made their international debuts and handled the step up in class admirably.

“The three rookies all played exceptionally well. All round it was great team job today and we are well on our way to achieving our target for this event in getting everyone some big time experience against very good competition.”

The Australian team’s next test comes later this evening (AEST) when they go head-to-head with hosts, Great Britain.

The British were impressive on day one as they prepare to mount their assault on the 2012 Paralympic crown in front of an expectant host nation.

Ranked sixth in the world, Great Britain smashed Sweden 55-36 in a result belying Sweden’s ranking as the fourth best team in the world, no doubt giving Dubberley even more to ponder.

GB CUP RESULTS - DAY 1

JAP vs. SWE - 58-57 (1 OT)
AUS vs. BEL - 56-54
GBR vs. SWE - 55-36
AUS vs. JPN - 61-50
GBR vs. BEL - 58-53

WORLD RANKINGS

1.    United States
2.    Australia
3.    Japan
4.    Sweden
5.    Canada
6.    Great Britian
7.    Belgium
8.    Poland
9.    New Zealand
10.    Germany