Thursday, August 21, 2008 - 10:40 PM

Australia's women's water polo team has taken the bronze medal at the Beijing Olympics, beating Hungary in a penalty shoot-out.

The Stingers broke away to a 2-0 lead early, but Hungary responded with five straight goals and led 5-3 at half-time.

Australia equalised at 6-6 late in the third quarter and then again with eight seconds remaining in the match via Rebecca Rippon to force extra time.

The Stingers led twice in extra time, with Hungary making it 9-9 with just 20 seconds left to force the shoot-out, which Australia won 3-2.

Captain Melissa Rippon says it was a thrilling result.

"Right now I'm relieved and excited, I can't really explain it," she said.

"It was just the most exciting game to be part of and I just put my faith in the girls and they came through and it was awesome."

She says while the team came to win gold, she is happy to walk away with a medal.

"Once we knew we couldn't get gold or silver we knew we had to come out here and get that bronze medal and I'm so glad we were able to do it."