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27/12/2009
By Luke Quinlivan.
A persistent Fremantle defeated the Chinese Nation team at Bicton Pool here tonight.
In front of a thousand strong crowd, the Mariners were able to creep away with an 11-6 victory.
Up until half time, the game was almost goal for goal thanks to the solid defence and goalkeeping of both
teams. It was battle of the goalkeepers in the opening minutes. Fremantle's, James Stanton, showcased his
world-class abilities making ten saves including a penalty save. Chinese goalkeeper, Wu Honghui, kept his team
in the fight making an incredible nine saves in the first half. He also saved a penalty and a
number of counter attack shots.
After half-time Fremantle were able to stretch their lead out to five goals and maintained a comfortable
buffer through to the final siren.
Tonight's win places Fremantle at the top of the ladder and in strong contention for another
shot at the title, which they haven't won since 2005.
Fremantle: 11
James Stanton (GK), Mike Bourne, Tim Cleland [1], Nick O’Halloran, John Neesham [1], Jamie Beadsworth (c) [2], Grant Richardson [1], Aaron Younger [1], Joel Swift [1], James Fannon, Daniel Varga [2], Daniel Lawrence [2], Perry Short, Bill Christensen (GK).
China: 6
Wu Honghui (GK), Jiang Bin [1], Dong Tianyi, Li Bin, Zhang Chufeng, Liang Zhongxing [2], Xie Junmin, Pan Ning, Guo Junliang, Li Li, Wang Yang [1], Li Bin [2], Tan Feihu.
In the opening game, the Barbarians defeated Vasas, Hungary 13-8.

Photography by Paul Entwistle
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