Australia's men's water polo team finished fifth at a warm-up event for the London Olympics on Sunday after a 7-5 win over Canada.
Australia recorded two wins, two losses and a draw at the Cosenza Trophy in Italy ahead of their Olympic opener against Italy on July 29.
Johnno Cotterill netted two goals in the first period for Australia, while Billy Miller and Richie Campbell scored in the final term.
The gritty win over Canada served as Rob Maitland's swansong after the 175-game veteran wasn't selected for what would have been his second Olympics.
Australia coach John Fox likened his team's resolve against Canada to Maitland, who has remained with the squad in Europe to assist with training and matches despite his Olympic omission.
"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."
The squad will return home for 10 days before heading back to Europe on July 13 to contest the Vodafone Cup in Hungary prior to arriving in London for the Games.
HOME
RSS