3 minute read

Croatia have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series against Australia's men after winning the second match 12-11.

The Australian men's water polo team were forced into a penalty shoot out, going down to leading nation Croatia 12-11 on Thursday night .

Australia held a one point lead for a majority of the game and came out firing in the final period to push the lead out to two goals.

But the Croatians showed why they are considered one of the best teams in the world, fighting back in the dying minutes to lock up the score 7-7 at the end of regular time.

With the game forced into a penalty shoot out, both sides had their goalies working overtime with some big saves keeping the scores locked before the visitors stole the match 12-11.

They now have an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series after winning the opening clash 10-8.

Australian Captain, Aaron Younger, said despite the narrow loss he was pleased how the squad is progressing just over six months out from the 2020 Olympic Games.

"It was definitely a great game. This is obviously leading towards Tokyo so the preparations, I believe, are going great so far.

"Croatia is the top country in the world and the performances the boys have put on this week has been great. We're definitely at the level we want to be at, building towards that Tokyo level next year.

Australia will play Croatia in the third and final match on Saturday.