Great Britain's Alex Parsonage (left) scored the goal of the game in the defeat to Hungary. Pic: Dave Thompson/PA

London 2012: Defeated Team GB suffer elimination from men’s water polo competition

Joshua Richards Saturday, August 4, 2012
7:43 PM

Team GB 6 Hungary 17

Hungary improved their chances of claiming a fourth consecutive Olympic gold medal with a dominant win to eliminate Great Britain.

The reigning champions had lost two of their opening three matches, but bounced back with a big victory to officially ensure Team GB cannot progress from Group B with one match still to play.

GB, with the leakiest defence in the competition, made their customary slow start – conceding six times in the opening quarter.

Hungary were ruthless in front of goal as Peter Biros (2), Tamas Kasas, Gergley Kiss and Daniel Varga fired in.

The home supporters had something to cheer when Adam Scholefield converted.

But they had goalkeeper Matt Holland, from Carshalton, to thank for two smart saves to ensure they ended the opening period only five goals behind.

The second period continued for Hungary in a similar vain, but GB responded, virtually matching their opponents goal for goal.

A Norbert Mandaras double sandwiched Ciaran James’ fine goal – his sixth of the Games.

Jake Vincent finished a fine team move on the arc, with West Wickham’s Sean King making the vital pass.

Adam Steinmetz, Kasas and Tamas Varga all netted before half-time at the other end.

But Rob Parker responded and Alex Parsonage claimed the goal of the game – lobbing goalkeeper Zoltan Szecsi – to leave GB trailing 11-5 at the end of the second quarter.

Hungary changed their goalkeeper ahead of the third period and took their foot off the gas, slightly, scoring four times without reply.

Kasas and Mandaras completed their respective hat-tricks.

Marton Szivos opened his account for the match while Denes Varga added a classy 15th – giving Hungary a 10-goal advantage going into the final quarter.

GB captain Craig Figes scored the opening goal of the fourth period, but Kiss replied almost instantly.

Hungary’s sharp-shooting continued late on as Hosnyansky claimed his second and his side’s 17th of the match to mark a timely return to top form.