The first quarter was tightly contested with Australia initially matching it with the World Champions through goals from Gavin Woods and captain Trent Franklin.
However, in the last few minutes the Serbians gained a two goal lead through strong play from their captain Filip Filipovic.
Australia made a good comeback in the next quarter scoring the first two goals through Trent Franklin with a 5 metre penalty, and Tim Neesham.
A quick break and goal saw Serbia strike back and then goals each for Serbia and a second for Tim Neesham ended the half with Serbia in the lead at 6 - 5.
It wasn't until the last minute of the third quarter that the scorer's were challenged, with Gavin Woods breaking the goal drought for Australia and evening up the score.
Ryan Moody capitilised on the momentum scoring again and allowing Australia to take the lead for the first time in the night with only seconds on the clock.
Australia continued on the attack in the final quarter breaking away to a good lead through goals from Gavin Woods, Ryan Moody and Grant Richardson.
Rob Maitland continued the advantage with a great goal before Serbia fought back with consecutive goals to bring the match back to just a one goal deficit, with Australia leading 11 - 10.  
Despite the late comeback the Australian team held their nerve and defended strongly for the last couple of minutes taking away a much deserved win against the world number one team.
Australian coach David Neesham was happy with the team's first hit out against Serbia.
"This was our first game together since August so beating Serbia was a great result, and an encouraging start to our run into the World Championships in March," he commented.

Goal Scorers:
Australia - Trent Franklin (2), Gavin Woods (3) , Ryan Moody (2), Rob Maitland, Grant Richardson, Tim Neesham (2) - TOTAL 11
Serbia - Milos Korolia (3), Dusko Pietlovich (2), Andreja Prla-inovich, Marko Abramovic, Filip Filipovic, Stephan Mitrovic (2) - TOTAL 10

The next match in the series will take place on Thursday night at 7.15pm at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre.
For more information, or to arrange an interview please contact James Ward on 0409 458 661 or at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it   

Australian Water Polo Inc is proudly supported by the Australian Sports Commission, the Stanwell Corporation, Turbo, Qantas and Mikasa.

JAMES WARD
Division Manager,
Communications Elite Sports Properties Holdings Pty Ltd





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