The Ord Minnett Aussie Stingers are one step closer to securing an Olympic berth for Paris 2024 after winning the opening match of the Oceania Olympic qualifiers in New Zealand.

Eager for a strong start, the Stingers came out firing, outscoring their trans-Tasman rivals 5-0 in the first quarter.

Formidable defence led by Tokyo Olympian Gabi Palm saw Australia hold their opponents to a scoreless first half, and take a 8-0 lead into the half time break.

In the third quarter, the Aussies added another five goals to the board, with New Zealand sneaking one into the back of the net late in the third quarter.

The Stingers put their foot down in the fourth quarter to extend their lead out to 14 goals, the end score 17-3.

Tokyo Olympian Abby Andrews said the lightning start provided her team with a massive boost.

“It was super exciting to get such a great start out of the gate,” said Andrews..

“That was exactly what we wanted to prioritise, coming in and having a really strong first quarter.

“We’re all super motivated, defence was so strong, we had great performance from both of our goalies. Our attack was fluid and just worked really well.”

The teams will return to Auckland’s Sir Owen Glenn National Aquatic Centre tomorrow for the second test match of the Series.

OCEANIA OLYMPIC QUALIFIERS

Game 1 | Australia 17 d New Zealand 3

Game 2 | Australia v New Zealand | Saturday 12 August | 4pm AEST / 6pm NZST | WATCH LIVE

Game 3 | Australia v New Zealand | Sunday 13 August | (If required)

Story courtesy of Water Polo Australia

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