The Dutch side recorded an impressive 15-13 triumph over a Russian team seeking to retain their crown following their triumph in Auckland in 2016.

Both sides had already progressed to the next phase but defeat for the Russians means they will have to come through another match if they are to reach the quarter-finals at the Milan Gale Muskatirovic Sports Centre.

The Netherlands ended the group stage with three wins from three, while Russia held on to second place.

In the other Group D match today, New Zealand swept aside South Africa 11-5.

The United States also finished the group phase unbeaten as they claimed their third straight win with a narrow 8-7 victory over Hungary in Group C, while Kazakhstan beat Argentina 11-8.

In the other battle to decide the group winners, Spain comfortably overcame Italy 13-6 in Group A.

Hosts Serbia's miserable campaign ended with defeat to Canada in the other Group A match staged today.