WATER POLO: In one of the closest games of the Tournament, the Australian Men’s Water Polo team have defeated hosts Japan 7-5 in game three of the World League Intercontinental Tournament.

Its another boost for the Aussies who are set to face Japan in game two of the Rio Olympic Games preliminary rounds.

The Japanese side known for their different playing style weren’t going to let the Aussies run away with the win, with the low score-line reflecting a tough battle for both sides.

The Aussie Men’s squad were in training camp with the Japanese side last week ahead of the Tournament and knew they were going to be in for a tough match.

Rio hopeful Tyler Martin said they were pleased to keep the Japanese at only five goals.

“After playing Japan last week we knew it would be a tough game. They are very fast and agile and have really improved over the last few years, so really good to get the win.

“Our extra man defence was much improved. We kind of know their (Japan) systems now so that helped the last week of training with them,” said Martin.

Head Coach Elvis Fatovic said despite the full on program the squad have had leading into their third game in a row, he was happy with the win.

“We played well in set defence and extra man defence. We still want to stop their counter attack and I think they scored almost all their goals from counter attack - that is something we want to avoid.

“We knew it would be very difficult to play them because they play different kind of press then anyone else. But we should have finished this game much earlier, we missed some chances - but Joel on the goal was really good and he saved some extra chances they had,” said Fatovic.

The win has the Aussies two from three at the World League Intercontinental Tournament with the team needing to finish in the top four to secure their spot in the FINA World League Super Final.

The Aussie Sharks will take on China tomorrow – follow @WaterpoloAus for all the updates.

Match Statistics

AUS v JPN

FULL TIME: AUS 7 d JPN 5

Quarter Time Scores: AUS-JPN: 3-1; 1-1; 1-1; 2-2

AUS start list: James Stanton-French, George Ford, Johnno Cotterill, Nathan Power, Jarrod Gilchrist, Aidan Roach, Tyler Martin, Joel Swift, Mitchell Emery, Rhys Howden, Lachlan Edwards, Joel Dennerley.

AUS scorers:Edwards (1), Howden (2), Swift (2), Power (1), Martin (1)