TIANJIN. China. Oct 9: A dazzling performance from teenage prodigy Andreea Radu-can helped Romania's women kick ofl the defence of their team title in imperious fashion at the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships here Saturday, reports AFP.

The tiny Raducan. who only turned 16 on September 30. stamped her precocious talent on the championships with near-flawless routines on the beam and floor.

IL. oreathtaking brace was the highlight of a fine all-round display by the Romanians, who topped the opening round of qualifiers after four groups with a score of 154.394.

The Ukraine were second with 151.970 points, while Russia kick off their campaign later Saturday. China and the USA take part in their qualifiers Sunday.

"We are very happy but there is a long way to go yet.” Romanian head coach Octavian Belu told reporters after watching his inexperienced squad delight the crowd at the Tianjin Sports Centre.

"Yes. Raducan did very well, but we will see how good she is when she competes in a final. It's too early to start saying she is a world champion." Belu said.

World individual all round silver medalist Simona Ama-nar had been expected to lead the Romanian challenge, following the retirement of stars Gina Gogean and Lavinia Milosovicl.

Instead it was the diminutive Raducan — with scores of 9.8 on the beam and floor — who led the way.

The Romanians also appear to have unearthed another gem in Maria Olaru. competing in her first world championships, who topped the unofficial individual standings Just 0.037 points ahead of Amanar.

'We had to find Individuals capable of replacing the girls that retired and these two nave done well so far. But it's sensible to be cautious at the moment because we haven't won anything yet." Belu said.

There are other teams like Russia, the USA and China who will be very strong. So we did what we have to do. The real competition starts in the finals on Tuesday."