Women's opener: Australia outplays China 9-6

Photo Gallery>>(BEIJING, March 18) -- In the opening game of the "Good Luck Beijing" 2008 Water Polo China Open held on March 18 at Beijing's Ying Tung Natatorium, host China suffered a setback at the hands of Australia, the gold medalist at the 2000 Olympic Games.

Three minutes and 14 seconds before the end of the first period, China opened the score thanks to a successful side shot by Liu Ping. Soon Australia's No. 11, Melissa Rippon, tied the scored with a vigorous frontal shot.

Two and a half minutes into the second period, Australia began to show strength, scoring twice in a row to lead 3-1. The host team also strengthened its attacks, but the Australians launched a fierce offensive and the period ended 6-2 in favor of the guest team.

In the third period, Australia enjoyed a two-minute numerical advantage as a Chinese player committed an exclusion foul. However, Australia twice shot at the crossbar of the goal twice, and the score stood 6-3 after a long shot from the Chinese team. It was only in the last minute that the Australians added one more goal on a fast break through the Chinese goal for a 7-3 lead.

The last period saw the Chinese team threatening the opponent, making it 7-4 with a powerful shot from six meters away through No. 10, Ma Huanhuan. One minute later, Australia scored again with a left side toss-up shot by No. 12, Amy Hetzel. Despite their lack of technique, the Chinese players managed to add two more goals before the game ended 9-6.

(Credit: The Official Website of "Good Luck Beijing" Sport Events)