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.
Special Report: 25th Universiade Belgrade 2009
