Hungary Defeats U.S. for Water Polo Gold
Defending Olympic gold medalist Hungary dominated the United States in the second half of what had been a tight water polo match. The Hungarians turned what was a 9-9 tie early in the third quarter into a 14-10 decision that brought another gold.
The U.S. took silver for the first time since 1988, matching its best finish ever.
The Americans were victimized by shaky goalkeeping. Merrill Moses, the anchor of a victory over Serbia in the semifinals, was pulled in the third quarter, replaced by Brandon Brooks. But the Americans could not get their offense going thereafter, hitting several posts and crossbars.
The Hungarians celebrated by diving in the water -- including their fully clothed coaching staff -- and hugging. The Americans exchanged solemn handshakes on the pool deck.
By
Barry Svrluga
|
August 24, 2008; 4:54 AM ET
| Category:
Water Polo
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Posted by: Cheradine | August 24, 2008 8:56 AM
Hungary's back! Water polo was their forte and now they have retaken their rightful place. More golden goals. For a tiny country their medal haul is very impressive.
Posted by: ibolyap | August 24, 2008 10:18 AM
Please correct the spelling of my country in the link that leads us here. Its not Hungray, but Hungary. Thank you.
Posted by: cheradine | August 24, 2008 10:34 AM
This "article" was written by an incompetent hack. This is the USA's best finish in over 20 years and this d-bag opens with a negative and closes with a negative. Nice note on the "solemn" handshakes. how about giving a little credit to a team that was ranked 9th coming into the tournament and finished with the silver medal, not to mention knocked off top ranked Croatia and Serbia along the way. Even the Chinese "reporters" put more effort into their coverage. Bravo.
Posted by: Mao | August 24, 2008 10:48 AM
szép volt fiúk!!! megvan a 3. arany:) negyedik a ráadás
Posted by: jani | August 25, 2008 1:26 PM
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Congratulations from Hungary. U.S. team defeated water polo super powers in the last few days. Amazing development in 1 year. Their performance is one of the greates U.S success in Bejing...
However, the current Hungarian team is a legend itself, probably the most successful water polo team ever.
Keep on the good work!