The six-day tournament kicked off in Surgut, Russia tonight with the Aussies set to face China, Spain and Russia in the preliminary rounds.

It was the ideal start for the Australians, their defence making all the difference to hold off a physical Chinese side.

Captain Rowie Webster lead the way for their side with three goals a piece and was named MVP of the match.

The Aussies were up by two at the half way mark leading 5-3, but the third quarter was where the Chinese made their move winning the quarter with four goals and tying up the scores 7-7 at the end of period.

But the never say die attitude from the Aussies in their attack and defence saw them power home to only keep Chinese to just one goal, but securing four of their own to finish out the game 11-8.

Rio Olympian Isobel Bishop said while the team were pleased to walk away with the win, there are always things they can improve on.

"It is good to start the World Cup with the win. It was uneasy to play China, we know each other very well indeed. 

"Always new rules make it even interesting, especially without stoppage in play.

"We are just learning them, we are adapting, as soon as we have experience, we will get on better. I think, we were not perfect today and there is always something which can be improved in the game.

"We are going to improve and improve every game," she said.

Next up the Australians face the home side Russia, who delivered a powerful signal they want to keep the World Cup in their country after a 13-9 win over Spain.

Australia take on Russia early Thursday morning at 12:30am AEST - tune  in via FINAtv. 

GAME 1: AUS V CHN RESULTS 

Australia 11 China 8 

Qtr time scores: 2-0, 3-3, 2-4, 4-1

Extra Man: AUS 3/6 CHN 2/8

AUSTRALIA: Lilian Hedges, Keesja Gofers (1), Hannah Buckling (1), Bronte Halligan, Isobel Bishop (2), Bronwen Knox (2), Rowie Webster (4), Amy Ridge (1), Zoe Arancini, Alice Williams, Morgan Baxter, Pascalle Casey, Gabriella Palm.

FOLLOW

To view the official event web page – click here.

Tune in via FINAtv or follow updates on the @WaterpoloAus Twitter account.

AUSTRALIA’S FINA WOMEN’S WORLD CUP SCHEDULE:

Day 2 Wednesday, 5 September – AUS vs RUS 1930 (6 September 12:30am AEST)

Day 3 Thursday, 6 September – AUS vs ESP 1630 (6 September 9:30pm AEST)

Days 4-6, 7-9 September – TBC

Original published on Water Polo Australia. Republished with permission.