The Aussie Sharks, Australia’s men’s water polo team, have finished fifth at the Cosenza Trophy in Italy after carving out a gritty 7-5 win over Canada.

The victory gave Australia two wins, two losses and a draw in the tournament as the team prepares for the London Olympics where they play world champions Italy in their first match of the preliminary stage on July 29.

In what was retiring veteran Rob Maitland’s last game in the green and gold after falling short in earning selection to a second Olympics in London, the Sharks jumped out to an early lead before repelling a Canadian comeback late in the match.

Johnno Cotterill netted two goals in the first period for Australia and despite Canada winning the next two quarters by one goal margins Billy Miller and Richie Campbell were able to ensure the Australians finished on the right side of the ledger with last term strikes.

But the match belonged to Maitland, captain for the game and who in a decorated 175 game international career played in three world championships, the Beijing Olympics and was skipper of Australia’s gold medal winning team at the 2009 World University Games.

Australian head coach John Fox praised the team’s resolve, likening it to their retiring teammate, who after missing selection in the Olympic team late last month selflessly remained with the squad in Europe to assist with training sessions and games.

"That was a satisfying win despite a few individual lapses in defence which cost us goals,” Fox said.
 
“It was fantastic for Robbie that the boys toughed it out when Canada came back at us.
 
“The team showed the fighting qualities that has typified the way Robbie Maitland played throughout his career.”
 
Characteristically Maitland was humbled by the attention after the game and instead looked to focus on his teammates quest for gold in London.
 
"It was a great honour to captain the team in my last game and win and although it's not the ideal way to end my career, I wish the team all the best I'm London,” Maitland said.
 
The Australians will now return home for ten days before heading back to Europe on July 13 to contest the Vodafone Cup in Hungary prior to arriving in the Olympic Village.

Australian Water Polo Inc.