The Australian men’s SIS/SAS touring squad has continued its impressive form with a hard fought 10-9 victory over Japan in Tokyo overnight.
The Aussies began quickly establishing a 4-2 lead in the first quarter, before netting another two goals in the second term to lead 6-4 at the main break.
Japan mounted a comeback during the third period to level things at 7-7, before Australia’s superior extra man attack and defence saw them seal the contest.
Co-coach Chris Wybrow was pleased with the effort and praised the boys for their hard work and tenacity.
‘It was a tough game for the Australian boys today, having to work extremely hard in attack for results,” Wybrow said.
“One of the most pleasing aspects of the game was converting five out of six in extra man attack.
“The game was also built around our extra man defence where we communicated very well and stopped their first nine extra player opportunities.
“Unfortunately we couldn’t get the perfect record as we allowed the final two extra man attack goals, but overall the signs were very positive.”
Centre forward Joel Swift from the Western Australian Institute of Sport was one of the stars for the Aussie Sharks netting three goals and earning numerous kick-outs.
Jarrod Gilchrist, Carl Zvekan, Nathan Power and Mitch Emery were also impressive, prompting coach Paul Oberman (WAIS men’s water polo head coach) to praise the natural progression of his young players.
“Some very good character was shown by Joel Swift as he was extremely dominant, scoring goals and gaining exclusions,” Oberman said.
“He also scored a centre forward goal with less than a minute left on the clock to break the deadlock, which was very impressive.
“Jarrod Gilchrist was again clinical finishing off our attacking movements up front and doing some big covering and strong defensive work down back.
“Carl Zvekan had a strong game in the cage blocking some excellent shots in the final minutes, while Nathan Power contained the dangerous Japanese centre forward Yasuke Shimizu.
“Mitch Emery was also key, making some excellent defensive steals before he controlled the attack and scoring some important goals at crucial times.”
The Sharks will play one more game before returning home on November 17.
– Water Polo Australia
