From the second round the Hungarian athlete dominated the match with effective attacks.Continue reading
Index reports that the Hungarian women’s water polo team achieved their first victory at the 33rd Summer Olympics, defeating Canada 12-7 after an initial loss to the Netherlands.
The win, secured at the Paris Aquatic Center, elevated Hungary to second place in Group B. After a tough start with a 10-8 defeat against the Netherlands, Hungary’s performance improved at this match played with the Canadian team.
The first goal came a minute and a half in from Rebecca Parkes (member of the Hungarian team), followed by a second goal shortly after (2-0).
Despite the Canadian captain Emma Wright’s attempt hitting the crossbar, Hungary capitalized quickly. Rita Keszthelyi scored in the 5th minute (3-0), and although Canada’s Hayley McKelvey added a goal later (3-1), Hungary responded with a five-meter free kick, ending the period at 4-1.
Gréta Gurisatti reflected on the game, saying, “every match is a new beginning, and we proved it this time. We went into the pool having completely sealed the deal against the Dutch. We managed to keep Canada from gaining momentum, and apart from a few short periods, we defended solidly and felt we deserved the win.”
In the second quarter, Kindred Paul scored for Canada (4-2), but Hungary maintained their lead with Gréta Gurisatti and Dorottya Szilágyi scoring (6-2 and 12-6 respectively). Dóra Leimeter felt the match was a turning point, stating:
It is different to play with confidence. We need that confidence to bring out our best, like our goal at the end of the third period.”
Despite a brief challenge in the third period with unfavorable refereeing and Canada’s Axelle Crevier scoring (7-5), Hungary’s solid play ensured the victory.
The match ended 12-7, with Keszthelyi and Gurisatti both scoring three goals.
The team will next face China, with their final group stage game scheduled against Australia on August 4.
Via Index; Featured Image: MTI / Kovács Tamás