Sharks Bounce Back at World League Following Opening Game Defeat

Australia has recovered from an opening match defeat against hosts Serbia to win its second FINA World League Super Final contest 14-5 over Kazakhstan.

The tournament is the Sharks’ last major competitive hit-out before July’s World Championships in Korea.

They faced a challenging opening assignment when fixtured against home nation and traditional water polo powerhouse Serbia.

Australia could scarcely have asked for a better start however, racing out to a three goal lead in the first quarter before the Serbians – backed by a vociferous home crowd – spurred into action.

By half-time, the hosts had recovered a 7-5 lead and they maintained their composure in the second half to complete a 12-8 victory.

WA athletes Aaron Younger and George Ford both hit the scoreboard, whilst Tim Putt was also in action for the Sharks.

The campaign was put back on track in their second clash with Kazakhstan, with the Australians exercising both temperament and control to run out comfortable nine goal winners.

The bulk of damage was aggregated across the second and third quarters, where the Australians outscored their opponents by seven goals to one.

Aussie Sharks Head Coach, Elvis Fatovic, said he was pleased with how the team adapted after game one.

“This game was quite a contrast compared to our first one (against Serbia). There I could be satisfied with our first period but definitely not with the following third, even if it came after the rain delay.

“Today we started the first period really slowly but managed to gain some speed in the following three quarters. We did what we had to, our defence was good, or let me say, did enough in this game,” he said.

The tournament doesn’t get any easier for the Aussies, they’ll face Croatia in their third match up from 8pm Perth time this evening.