Australia have finished fourth at the FINA Youth World Championships after a defeat to Greece in the bronze medal playoff.
It was only four days ago that both teams faced each other in their last group match of the tournament playing out a 9-9 all draw and setting up an anticipated rematch in their final games.
Australia and Greece started the match at a scintillating pace.
A tight tussle developed between the sides as they both looked to make it onto the podium and finish the tournament with a medal.
After conceding the first goal, Australia’s Charlize Andrews continued her great form to collect a rebound off the bar and score with under a minute left in the first quarter, leveling the match at 1-1.
The close contest between both teams continued into the second term and again like much of the past week, Lily Hawthorn was impressive early with her goalkeeping work.
Abby Andrews led from the front scoring Australia’s second after a powerful shot found the top right netting with two minutes remaining until half time.
Following the main break, the Aussies met a fired-up Greek team who piled on three unanswered goals, opening up a four-goal difference with one quarter remaining.
Attacking opportunities were limited in the second half for the Australian’s and any shots on goal were repelled by Greece’s goalkeeper who was solid all night.
With the match in its last quarter, Greece started it much like the previous quarter scoring early after being awarded a 5m penalty.
Australia replied quickly with a goal of their own to provide some hope of a comeback, but it wasn’t to be.
The side continued to fight and push Greece until the final whistle, however were unable to secure a bronze medal going down 3-7.
During the seven day international tournament, Australia walks away with the title of fourth best youth water polo team in the world after four wins, one draw and two loses.
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