While the defending champion United States and Australia swept their rivals with big margins, the Netherlands and the host China celebrated their narrow victories on the way to semifinals at the FINA Women's Water Polo World League Super Final 2015 at the Oriental Sports Center here on Friday.

The United States, who blocked Russia 8-0 in the first half and led to a 10-0 run before the Russian found the gate three times in the third quarter, winning easily 17-6 (4-0, 4-0,5-3, 4-3).

Australia also built up an early lead for the victory over Brazil 17-8 (4-1, 4-2, 6-4, 3-1).

"It was not an easy victory. It doesn't matter the scores. We played good and got some favorable calls in the first half. Our goalie saved some times. Everyone is tired in this tight schedule. It is always tough to play day after day, but we are prepared to play good for next game," US head coach Ada Krikorian said.

China started strong in the first quarter as captain Sun Yating scored twice for a 2-0 lead over Canada. Then China played solid defense, conceding only five goals to the rivals. China edged Canada 6-5 (2-0, 1-2, 2-2, 1-1) to enter the last four.

"This is the best game we have played so far in months, since we had three new players within the team. Our girls were more confident and focused during the whole game. We played a very good defensive tactics just like what I predicted in the morning when we had the preparation meeting," said Ricardo Azevedo, China's head coach.

The Netherlands also dominated the game by small margin against Italy by wining 8-7 (3-2, 3-2, 1-1, 1-2).

On June 13, China will meet Australia and US play the Netherlands in the semifinals.

In the 5th-8th placing games, Canada will face Brazil and Italy fight Russia. Endi

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)