U.S. Men Start World Water Polo Champs with Win Over Japan -- July 18, 2005

MONTREAL, July 18. THE United States men opened the World Water Polo Championships with a victory while the American women settled for a tie in Canada. In a Monday matchup against Japan, the U.S. men secured a 7-4 decision as Tony Azevedo scored in the first and fourth quarters. The U.S. held a 4-3 lead after the third stanza, but opened a cushion during the final period.

Jeff Powers also scored in the first and fourth quarters for the United States and Spencer Dornin also found the back of the net in the final period. Brandon Brooks turned in strong goalie play. The U.S. men have off on Tuesday and return to action on Wednesday with a clash with Cuba, the tournament’s fourth seed.

Playing in rainy conditions, the United States women earned a 6-6 tie with Spain on Sunday, rallying from an early deficit. Brenda Villa, Kelly Rulon and Ericka Lorenz all netted goals for the American squad, which earned the bronze medal at last summer’s Olympic Games in Athens. The U.S. faces top-seeded Hungary on Tuesday.