GREECE 15 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 14
Greece turned a 7-6 halftime deficit into a 15-14 victory. In truth, from that 7-6 scoreline, Greece dug deep and produced a daunting exhibition that had the North Americans reeling at 15-11 behind — a 9-4 period of play that turned and won the match. From that 15-11 margin, USA fired up, scored on extra-man attack, converted a penalty foul and sent one in on counter-attack.
With 52 seconds remaining, there was still a chance, but the sole USA shot was saved and the match drifted to a Greek victory. Greece won the group and will have a day off and USA will take on Kazakhstan to progress further into medal contention.
Match heroes
Foteini Tricha (GRE) was best in pool with five goals from 10 attempts. Jenna Flynn nailed four goals for USA. The difference in the result could be attached to the extra-man count where Greece snared five from eight and USA only two from four.
What they said
Foteini Tricha (GRE) — Player of the Match
“This was a really tough and tiring game. We were really concentrating on what we had to do, and our effort eventually paid off, with the final result being the evidence. The (North) American team has a rather rigorous, versatile and progressive play. “
Ava Stryker (USA) – Goal Scorer
“I think we held under the pressure just because we have each others’ backs. We managed to overcome the difference of four goals just by playing together, as a team. They played a captivating game with us.”