The Australian Stingers have defeated hosts New Zealand 10-2 to extend their unbeaten start to the FINA World League Intercontinental Cup.
A five goal to nil blitz in the second quarter provided the catalyst for the Stingers’ win, following a tight opening stanza. But with Australia keeping a tight defence and conceding no goals from extra man attacks, the Stingers could afford a tempered second half where goals were hard to come by.
“We knew it would be tough playing New Zealand, who had the home ground advantage,” Zagame said.
“Our defence came together nicely, but we didn’t execute like we should have in attack so we need to work on that before our next game.”
Early on in the encounter it appeared as if New Zealand would prove to be stubborn opponents as they scored two goals to the Aussies three to trail 3-2 at the first break.
However the score line blew out against the hosts as a strong five goals to nil second term put the Stingers in the box seat for victory, as captain Rowie Webster scored twice with Lincoln-Smith, Isobel Bishop and Bronte Halligan all supporting with goals.
The Australians added further goals in the third and fourth quarters to record a comfortable eight goal victory and will now switch attention to their match with Canada, with the winner to top the group ahead of cross over quarter finals.
WAIS athletes Gemma Beadsworth, Zoe Arancini and Lilian Hedges are in the Stingers Intercontinental Cup squad.
-with WaterPoloAus
