KHANTY-MANSIYSK, Russia, Aug 15 AAP - The Australian women's water polo team overcame hosts Russia 10-8 to book a semi-final place in the 2014 FINA World Cup in Khanty-Mansisyk.
Following a tentative start to the quarter-final clash, the Stingers held their nerve in the tight affair to topple the Russians who had the support of a vocal home crowd.
Victorian Rowie Webster was dominant in attack for the Australians, netting six goals while teammate Ash Southern added two.
The Stingers opened the scoring, with Russia shadowing every move in the first term to level at 2-2 at the break.
World Championships silver medallist Keesja Gofers completed a flawless swim off in the second quarter to put the Stingers back in front.
With Australia leading 8-6 at the final break the game tightened up in the fourth quarter with both sides scoring two goals. But the Stingers hung on to their lead to to come away with the win.
"The Russian crowd were very vocal and urged their team on. Russia rose to the excitement of the crowd and scored two goals off counter attack," Australian assistant coach Predrag Mihailovic said.
"Our senior players eventually took control of the game and we came out winners."
The Stingers will now take on Spain on Saturday for a spot in the gold medal game.
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