An injury and illness riddled Australian women's water polo team have battled for an 8-7 victory over Italy in their third and last group stage game at the FINA World League Super Final.
The Aussie Stingers, with star centre back Hannah Buckling on the sidelines with a broken finger and captain Bronwen Knox fouled out before three quarter time, didn't hit the lead until the final quarter.
They only sealed victory when left hander Isobel Bishop drilled home a penalty earned by teen Bronte Halligan with just 64 seconds left in the match.
Bishop ended the match with three goals, whilst sharpshooter Ash Southern snared two as Australia put in another inspired defensive effort.
The win comes after successive victories over China and Russia the previous two nights and leaves Australia at the top of their group.
They are set for a likely match up with Brazil in the second stage of the tournament on Friday night (AEST).
The winner of that game will go through to a semi-final on Saturday night with the medals will be decided on Sunday.
Share
