Team USA's defense dominated the South Africans today as the underdogs struggled to get the ball in the hole during bracket play at the 2007 FINA Water Polo World Championships. Jumping out to a three goal lead by the end of the first quarter, the U.S. showed no signs of slowing down. Clearly in top form, team captain Tony Azevedo was able to find the net in six out of his seven shots for the day. With three goals in the first quarter alone, Azevedo seemed to be unstoppable. Veterans Ryan Bailey, Layne Beaubien and Adam Wright added to the goal advantage by tacking on four goals between them bringing the U.S. up by six. Blocking six out of seven of the South African's shots in the first half, goalkeeper Merrill Moses did his part in keeping their opponents at bay, allowing only a single shot.
Determined to get back in the game, RSA came out in the third quarter gunning for the American's. Trading goal for goal, the two teams successfully delivered three goals apiece into their opponents goal. Unfortunately for RSA, they were unable to keep up the pace and Team USA ended the game 14-4.
About USA Water Polo: USA Water Polo, Inc. is a non-profit corporation organized for the purpose to serve as the national governing body for the sport of water polo in the United States under the auspices of the United States Olympic Committee (USOC). For more information please visit www.usawaterpolo.com.
