ELLESMERE Port wheelchair basketball player Billy Bridge's hopes of winning a gold medal at the Paralympic Games have ended after Great Britain were defeated by hosts Japan.

The 26-year-old, who has featured in two group games during the Tokyo games, was once again one of three unused substitutes in Team GB's 79-68 semi-final loss today.

Billy and his teammates will now fight for a bronze medal against Spain on Sunday in a match to determine who finishes third and fourth overall.

The semi-final started well for Great Britain who secured an eight point lead by the end of the first quarter.

However, that was as good as it got for Team GB as Japan fought their way back into the game, turning it on its head completely by the end of the third quarter to gain a four-point advantage.

The hosts maintained their domination in the final quarter to book their place in the final against the United States, who Great Britain defeated in the group stage.