FUKUOKA, Japan — Former Hartwick College standout Katie McKenty ’18 snagged three steals as New Zealand clipped Japan, 17-16, in both teams’ opening game of Group D competition at the 20th World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka, Japan.
A native of Auckland, New Zealand, McKenty shot zero-for-two in the game during 25 minutes of playing time as her homeland needed a 4-3 scoring outburst in the fourth quarter to overcome Japan.
Tied at five-all following the first quarter, New Zealand pulled ahead 9-8 by halftime thanks to a 4-3 surge in the second quarter. However, Japan fired back with a 5-4 scoring advantage in the third quarter prior to New Zealand pulling out the win in the final frame.
McKenty and New Zealand will return to the pool for the continuation of Group D competition on Tuesday, July 18, at 3:00 a.m. Eastern, versus Canada.
