Sharks Split Opening Fixtures at World League Qualifier

The Australian men’s water polo team has split its opening two matches at the FINA World League Intercontinental Tournament in Japan.

The Australian squad that features WAIS scholarship athletes George Ford and Joel Swift suffered a narrow 8-6 defeat against USA in their opening fixture before bouncing back to record a 13-9 win over Brazil, whom they will face in their opening match at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games in August.

Australia has been defensively sound in both matches, but struggled for attacking rhythm in their opening loss to USA, with head coach Elvis Fatovic ruing his side’s inability to convert from extra-man opportunities.

“It was a very tough game, I think both teams played better defensively then offensively especially in the first half where the result was 2-1 (at half time).

“Most important thing for us is our extra man. We were passive, very static and we didn’t create good opportunity for the shooter and that is something we have to improve on in the next few days,” he said.

The Sharks boys heeded Fatovic’s words in their clash with Brazil however, demonstrating a more potent edge in attack while continuing to guard their goal with discipline.

Fatovic suggested a higher level of intensity underscored the turnaround.

“It was a good game from the beginning – we were more aggressive then we were yesterday.

“There was a huge difference compared from yesterday. We still have a lot of space for improvement but I’m happy with how we played and hopefully we’ll keep playing at that same level,” he said.

Australia faces a clash with hosts Japan on Thursday, before completing their tournament schedule with matches against; China and Kazakhstan, with finals to conclude on Sunday.

The top four nations at the Intercontinental Tournament will earn progression to June’s World League Super Final, set to be held in Huizhou, China.