The Australian women’s water polo team have snatched an 8-7 victory over Greece, in their opening match of the 16thFINA World Championships in Kazan, Russia.
A late goal to the Australians secured the win before desperate defence prevented Greece an equalizer at the death.
WAIS athletes Gemma Beadsworth, Zoe Arancini and Glencora McGhie all scored for the Stingers with the victory setting Australia on course for a successful tournament.
The Stingers had a strong opening to lead Greece 2-1 at the first break, with Gemma Beadsworth and Hannah Buckling scoring. Greece hit back in the second term to take a 4-3 lead at half time, with Zagame providing Australia’s only goal for the quarter.
Greece extended their advantage early in the third quarter to break away to a two goal lead and threaten a mini upset, before the Stingers found composure to equalise at 5-5 at the final change.
With the scores level Australia produced a three goal fourth period, coupled with some desperate defence to hold out for victory, despite not producing its most fluent water polo.
“We won ugly today,” Australian coach Greg McFadden said.
“I expected nerves in the first quarter and I thought we were going well, then we just lost our way in the second term and allowed Greece to get two penalties. They ended up with five for the game. It just shows where we need to improve our defence.
“We also need to back ourselves in attack. We had moments when our players were on for shots, but didn’t take them. Our offense was a bit stale, which put our shooting under pressure.
“The team were tough at the end. They withstood penalties, extra man attacks and came home with the win.”
Australian captain Bronwen Knox echoed McFadden’s sentiments on where the team needed to improve, while conceding that nerves played a part in game one of the world championships.
“The game was a bit scrappy, we got ahead early but then they had a better second quarter. Then we kept pushing and pushing and came away with the win at the end,” Knox said.
“Overall it was a good game, it was quite tough and they got five penalties, so our defence is lacking in some areas, we need to refocus on that.
“You’re always a bit nervous coming up against a good team in the first game, you just want to get that first win under your belt.”
The Aussie Stingers next game will be against the world number 24 ranked team South Africa, with the match scheduled for 5.50pm AEST on Tuesday July 28 in Kazan, Russia.
-WaterPoloAus
