Brits one goal short against Russia
11th May 2012
The British Gas GBR Water Polo team got off to a frustrating start at their World League Preliminary competition after losing 9-8 to Russia in Volos.
After a solid performance in the first three quarters the Brits led their Olympic rivals with just two minutes left on the clock.
The Russians, who finished fourth in the European Championships earlier this year, fought back to get the equaliser and the final goal which ultimately gave them the win.
But the result is promising for the Brits who will face the Russians again in July in the group stages of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Captain Fran Leighton said "We're really pleased with tonight's performance but we're obviously disappointed with the defeat after leading in the last quarter.
"We have improved on London and converted more 'man up' opportunities tonight which is promising and now we're looking forward to playing the rest of the games."
The Brits, who have just returned from a promising Visa International at the London Water Polo Arena, have no time to rest on their laurels and are back in the pool today (May 11) with matches against World Champions Greece and reigning Olympic champions, the Netherlands who will both be looking for victory after failing to qualify for the 2012 Games.
British Gas GBR Women's Water Polo team at World League Qualifiers 2012
- Rosie Morris (GK)
- Robyn Nicholls (GK)
- Alex Rutlidge
- Hazel Musgrove
- Angie Winstanley - Smith
- Fran Leighton
- Lisa Gibson
- Ciara Gibson-Byrne
- Becky Kershaw
- Fiona McCann
- Francesca Painter-Snell
- Chloe Wilcox
- Rachel Drabble
- Claire Nixon
- Fran Clayton
- Vicky Bowen
