WATER POLO: With their third successive win, the Australian men’s water polo team, have booked their place in the FINA World League Finals with a 16-9 victory over Japan at the Intercontinental Cup in Shanghai, China. 

Eight members of the Australian Team found the back of the cage, with New South Welshman Tyler Martin leading the charge with a stirring four goal haul, three of which came in the final quarter. 

Other scorers included captain Richie Campbell, London Olympians Johnno Cotterill and Aidan Roach, Jarrod Gilchrist and Lachlan Edwards, who all found the back of the net twice, while Billy Miller and Nathan Power also found gaps in the Japanese defence. 

The Aussies had a slower start to the game than expected to lead 3-1 at the first break. The game tightened up in the second quarter with both sides scoring three goals for a 6-4 half time difference. 

Methodical attack in the second half saw Australia take control of the game to outscore Japan by two and four goals in the third and fourth terms respectively. 

Coach Elvis Fatovic said he was content with the win, underscoring the need for better focus in defence. 

“We are satisfied with our third win, one which sees us confirm our direct qualification for the World League Finals,” Fatovic said. 

“We didn’t have too many lost balls in the first quarter, and started to play better in the second half of the game, showing more discipline in our attack. 

“Several players used this game to play in different positions, managing to score goals, but we must pay more attention in defence.” 

Australia's next game is against China. 

Result: Australia 16 bt Japan 9 

Quarters: 3-1, 3-3, 4-2, 6-3 

Australian Scorers: T Martin 4, R Campbell 2, J Cotterill 2, AJ Roach 2, J Gilchrist 2, L Edwards 2, B Miller, N Power 

Water Polo Australia