Mixed Start for Fremantle in Water Polo Finals Series

The Fremantle Marlins and Mariners have experienced contrasting starts to the National Water Polo League in Sydney this week.

The Fremantle Marlins kicked off their finals campaign with a strong 12-8 win over the Victorian Tigers. A strong second half by four-time champions secured victory over the Tigers, who fell for a second time in the day.

The Tigers were in the game for the first half thanks to some solid work from Jade Hanson at centre defence and with an outside goal.

The Marlins methodically produced four goals in the third period before the Tigers hit back with three to set up a tense finish.

WAIS-AIS scholarship holder Glencora Ralph produced a determined five goal effort to help the Marlins to victory, and keep afloat dreams of a fifth National League crown.

The Fremantle Mariners suffered an upset 8-6 defeat at the hands of Wests Magpies. Minor premier Fremantle looked tentative throughout while Wests played to its strengths and slowly built momentum for a thoroughly deserved victory.

Two years ago Fremantle was minor premier but faded to finish fifth in the finals series.

Wests coach Mark Hubbard said “One win doesn’t win a tournament.”

He also said that the real test would be the next match against Sydney University Lions. “I didn’t expect to go all out against Fremantle but let’s see what happens with the Lions.”

Fremantle coach David Swift said the loss was a first hit out after a two-week break and thought his team was “warming to the task.”