Mon, July 13, 2009
BELGRADE, July 9 (Xinhua) -- China proved a class above Canada Thursday evening in the semifinal of the first-ever Summer Universiade women's water polo tournament, outscoring 6-1 in each of the first two quarters en route to a 16-7 victory.
The Chinese girls will take on Hungary, who beat Russia 11-9 in the other semifinal, for the gold.
China scored three goals, including one with a player advantage, in the first six and a half minutes of the opening quarter before Canadian team captain Stephanie Valin found the top corner of the Chinese net with 3:12 left to play.
The lead exploded to 6-1 by the end of the first, and then 8-1 just minutes into the second stanza.
"We knew that China was a very good team, but we cannot go into the water scared," said Canadian head coach Guyla Toth of Calgary. "China is stronger and faster, but our girls didn't fight. We let them play and score too easily."
Gao Ao scored five goals for the Chinese, Sun Yating, Wang Yi and Ma Huanhuan each recorded hat tricks, while He Jin and Qiao Leiying added singles.
"We had a good start, which enabled us a secure victory. We played another great game. All in all, we hope for the gold," said Gao Ao.
Unlike Chinese, Hungary had a difficult task. Russian team demonstrated exeptional quality and persistance, but did not manage to stop their opponents from triumph.
"I am very happy. The match was tough but we did everything we could so that we would not be surprised. The quality is on our side. We already have a medal, now we are heading for the gold," said Barbara Bujka of Hungary.
