Hungary get shot at third successive Water Polo gold

(BEIJING, August 22) -- Hungary are one step away from history following a come-from-behind 11-9 victory over Montenegro in the first semifinal of the Men's Water Polo competition at the Yingdong Natatorium on August 22.

The champions of the past two Olympics (Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004), Hungary denied European champions Montenegro a gold-medal-final berth.

An unprecedented third straight Olympic title match awaits the powerful, experienced and wily Hungarians following a patient game in which Montenegro showed plenty of skill and talent.

"The Cuban Volleyball team did it and the Danish Handball team did it. We are going to be the third," Hungarian goalkeeper Zoltan Szecsi said after the game.

Montenegro had a three-goal lead in the second quarter after leading 4-3 at the first break. Two quick goals at the top of the second had Montenegro looking good at 6-3.

However, Hungarian teams don't cave under pressure and the score was 6-6 three minutes later.

By the end of the third period Hungary, thanks to two Denes Andor Varga goals, led 9-7.

Montenegro drew level at 3:15 left in the game, but Tamas Kasas and Daniel Varga took Hungary beyond Montenegro's reach.