The Australian women's water polo team, the Stingers, have posted a convincing 7-2 win over host nation China, securing the bronze medal at the FINA World League Super final.
The Stingers' defence was impressive as they prevented the hosts from scoring eight out of nine opportunities. Underpinning the effort was Aussie goalkeeper Kelsey Wakefield who looked comfortable between the posts.
In offence, Australian captain Bronwen Knox was instrumental in organising the team, helping to open up scoring opportunities. World championship silver medallists Rowie Webster and Glencora McGhie also managed to score two and one goals respectively.
Other key players in attack for the Stingers were Jayde Appel with two goals, Ash Southern with one, while Keesja Gofers scored as well as winning four out of four swim-offs to hand the Aussies possession at the beginning of each quarter.
Southern declared the Stingers' defence was the key to finishing the tournament on a high note after the side's 13-4 semi-final loss to the USA.
"We came out today with a point to prove. Things didn't go our way yesterday (in the semi-final) so we focused on bouncing back and that stemmed from our defence," Southern said.
"Credit to all the girls for showing the Stingers pride and showing resilience. It was a great tournament to build on for the world cup."
The Stingers will return to Australia on Tuesday before they prepare for the FINA World Cup in Russia in August.
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