Synchronised Swimming - Ukraine strike gold in Russia's absence

GLASGOW (Reuters) - Ukraine's synchronised swimmers took full advantage of all-conquering Russia's decision not to enter the combination free team event by winning gold at the European Championships on Sunday.

The absence of the Russians, who had won every competition at the Championships so far, enabled Ukraine, who had already taken two silvers, to claim the title convincingly with a score of 94.4667 points.

Italy (92.6000) won the silver medal ahead of Spain (91.4667).

In the free solo preliminary, Svetlana Kolesnichenko finished top of the rankings with 95.5333 points and will be strong favourite to win gold in Tuesday's final.

(Reporting by Ian Chadband; Editing by Ken Ferris)