Hungary beat US in final

Waterpolo powerhouse Hungary battled to a thrilling 14-10 victory over the United States yesterday to win their third successive Olympic gold medal.

In an entertaining match, Hungary had their sternest test in years against a US team searching for a fairytale end to their best Olympic competition since 1988 in Seoul.

Playing in a pressure-cooker atmosphere at the Yingdong Natatorium, the two teams were almost inseparable until the final quarter.

Tied at 9-9 at the end of the first half, Hungary came out fighting in the third period and edged ahead through Tamas Molnar.

The United States spurned a string of opportunities, with shots cannoning against the woodwork and going wide of target.

Hungary showed their class with swift counter attacking and a solid defence before Daniel Rudolf Varga blasted home two superbly-taken goals to put the match beyond the United States.

Rankings: 1. Hungary; 2. US; 3. Serbia; 4. Montenegro; 5. Spain; 6. Croatia; 7. Greece; 8. Australia; 9. Italy; 10. Germany.