Kunshan, China, May 28.— Canada, United States of America, Netherlands and Spain were first-day winners at the FINA Women’s Water Polo World League Super Final being played at the Kunshan Sports Centre on Monday.
In Group B, Canada opened proceedings with an 11-9 victory over Russia in a see-sawing match where the Canadians controlled the second half and their lead in the final four minutes.
Reigning champion United States of America survived a shaky start to fend off Japan 14-4 in what USA head coach Adam Krikorian stated was tough adjusting to Japan's "unorthodox style".
In Group A matches, Netherlands held off Australia 7-5 in a tight match where Dutch goalkeeper Laura Aarts was supreme. And Spain deflated China’s pride with an emphatic display in the night’s final encounter, winning 12-6.
Group Points:
Group A: Spain 3, Netherlands 3, Australia 0, China 0.
Group B: USA 3, Canada 3, Russia 0, Japan 0.
Tuesday Schedule:
15:00, Group B, Russia v Japan
16:30, Group A, Spain v Netherlands
18:00, Group B, USA v Canada
19:30, Group A, Australia v China