Hungary, who are two-time World Champions, went down 10-9 in a thrilling final on Friday night in South Korea.

It was the first medal Australia has won at the World Championships since their silver in 2013 and after their eighth-placed finished in 2017.

“I’m obviously really happy to get a bronze medal at the World Championships. Hungary is a phenomenal team,” captain Rowie Webster said.

“They took us every step of the way and they came down to the very last attack in the very last defence.

“We’re just happy that we’re on the right side of the win, so we’re really, really happy."

It was a bit of deja vu for the two sides after they had played each other for the bronze at the 2012 Olympic Games with the Stingers winning in overtime. However, there would be no overtime this time around. 

Rio Olympian Hannah Buckling put Australia on the board in the opening 30 seconds with Zoe Arancini and Bron Knox quickly following to extend the lead to 3-0. However, Hungary quickly closed the gap to lock up the scores.

In the second quarter, Australia regained the lead and would take that into the major break.

However, heading into the final period there was a feeling the game would go down to the wire.

Australia was lifted three goals clear by Webster and Bronte Halligan but a late fightback from Hungary saw them come within a goal of the Stingers but the defence held tight to take the win.

The victory will give great confidence to Australia just one year out from the 2020 Olympics.