Day 04 of the 16th FINA World Championships in Kazan

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Kazan, Tuesday, 28th July 2015 – Australia was too strong for the South African women’s Water Polo national side when they won 19-1 during the 16th FINA World Championships fixture today.

Ruby Versfeld was once again the scorer for the South Africans, who will be playing their final group game against Greece on Thursday evening.
Australia’s goals came from Ash Southern (five), Gemma Beadsworth (two), Hannah Buckling (two), Holly Lincoln-Smith (three), Keesja Gofers (three), Rowie Webster (one), Glennie Mcghie (one), Nicola Zagame (one) and Zoe Arancini (one).
Australia, who are ranked number four in the world, are one of the favorites to win the Championships after they claimed their first victory against Greece on Sunday.

South Africa are ranked 23rd in the world.

“The team played one of the top teams in the world and was intimidated at first. When we settled down and played to the game plan, we were more competitive.
“Team South Africa are in the toughest pool and have no respite ahead.” said the head coach, Brad Rowe.
In the 10km Open Water race, Michelle Weber finished 19th in 1:59:28.7, ahead of teammate Carmen le Roux, who came in 41st in 2:06:37.5.
“The race was fast from start to finish and I am disappointed that I did not come top ten to qualify for the Olympic Games next year but I am happy with my 19th place, which gives me an excellent shot to qualify next year at the 2nd trial runs in June in Portugal.

“Being by far one of the youngest competitors in the group also give me hope for a bright future in competitive Open Water Swimming. I am very thankful to my coach, Graham Hill, family and friends who have supported me in chasing my long life dream to compete at Rio 2016.” said Weber after her event.
Emma Manners Wood and Laura Strugnell concluded the Synchro Duet Free preliminaries in 35th place with 66.0000 points.
The men’s Water Polo team will be looking for their second win of the competition when they play Hungary tomorrow, while Jaimee Gundry will be participating in the 10m Platform Diving preliminaries.

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