Rebensburg wins Soelden GS

The 20-year-old, who won the Olympic gold in the discipline, was third after the first run but produced a storming second leg to beat compatriot Kathrin Hoelzl by 0.42 seconds.

Defending World Cup GS champion Hoelzl led a German 1-2-3 after the first run but had to settle for second with double Vancouver champion Maria Riesch slipping two places to fifth.

Italy's Manuela Moelgg climbed onto the podium ahead of Tanja Poutiainen of Finland who was fourth.

"I really needed to convert my Olympic gold into a World Cup win for credibility," Rebensburg, a multiple junior world champion, said.

"But it was like another world to stand next to Maria and Kathrin after the first leg.

"I cannot explain why Germany is doing so well in GS (giant slalom) now. After all, our last victory here was Martina Ertl (in 2004)."

It was a disappointing day for hosts Austria with Kathrin Zettel their best finisher down in seventh.

Three-time overall champion Lindsey Vonn made a big mistake on her first run to trail Hoelzl by 3.82 seconds and could only upgrade her position six places on the second run.

The American finished 18th, nine places ahead of Chemmy Alcott of Britain who claimed four World Cup points.

The next women's World Cup race is in Levi, Finland on November 13.