The WAIS men’s water polo team has recorded a thrilling one goal win (6-5) over a combined VIS/SASI team in its opening clash of the 2012 NTC Challenge in Wagga Wagga.
A third quarter fightback from the composite side of Victoria and South Australia’s institutes threatened to derail a match that had initially seemed in WAIS’ control.
WAIS enjoyed the better of the first half, winning both quarters to hold a 4-2 half time advantage. A three goal to one third term however, levelled scores at the last change, before WAIS regrouped to score the only goal of the final quarter to ensure it started this year’s Challenge with a win.
WAIS coach Paul Oberman said his side had taken its foot of the gas in the third term to let the combined side back into the contest.
“We lost our grip, composure and concentration in the game in the third quarter to let the opposition back in,” he said.
“Daniel Lawrence then threw an absolute cracker of a goal in the first attack of the last quarter and although both teams had numerous chances, tiring athletes and excellent goalkeeping meant the scoreboard was not troubled for the rest of the game.”
The best players for WAIS were; Edward Slade, Nick Redbond and Daniel Lawrence.
