Bristol University’s water polo team have won the British Universities Sports Association (BUSA) championship, taking victory in all three of their matches.

Having reached the finals for the last four years, Bristol overcame stiff opposition from Cardiff, London and Oxford in three tight games.

In the opening match, Cardiff took an early lead and were firmly in control throughout the first quarter thanks to some excellent play from their centre forward. The two sides traded goals but Bristol hit back and eventually took a lead, winning 14-11.

London were Bristol’s next opponents and the game followed a similar pattern, with neither team able to establish a clear lead during the first three quarters. Bristol’s fitness proved to be the key as they came back from two goals down in the final period to win 7-6 after.

Other results meant that Bristol were already champions by the time they came up against Oxford, but the team capped their weekend by producing an impressive display in another tight match. Once again both sides were within one goal of each other until the final quarter, when Bristol turned on the style to win 15-9.

Steve Brindley, Athletic Union (AU) Chair, said: ‘To win a BUSA championship is a tremendous achievement for any team.

‘Last year the team lost out on goal difference in the final and from the start of this season they showed a real determination and commitment to win.  I am delighted that the team is able to celebrate being the best university water polo team in the country whilst also being Bristol University’s most successful team this year.’