Sharks finish fourth in Dubai

The Australian men’s water polo team has finished fourth at the FINA World League Super Final in Dubai following a tight 12-9 penalty shootout loss.

Featuring eight NSWIS athletes, the Australians faced a tough Montenegro team in the bronze medal match following a gallant 5-12 semi-final loss to eventual champions Serbia.

The Australians traded goals with the European superpower throughout the match, earning a 2-1 lead at the first break, before taking a 6-5 lead into the third and final change.

A strong fourth quarter from Montenegro, including the equaliser with less than 40 seconds on the clock, meant the teams remained deadlocked at 8-8 and were forced into a penalty shootout. NSWIS athlete Aidan Roach was the standout performer for the Sharks, scoring three goals, with fellow NSWIS athletes Jarrod Gilchrist and Richie Campbell each adding a goal.

Australian captain Campbell scored the Australians first and only goal in the shootout as Montenegro showed their class with a flawless display, scoring on all of their attempts before eventually taking the 12-9 victory.

The Sharks now head back to Australia before heading to the FINA World Cup which takes place in Kazakhstan from 19-24 August.