Wednesday 21 February: Last night's game against Montenegro marked the return of Australia's professional players Pietro Figlioli, Sam McGregor and Jamie Beadsworth from overseas club commitments. All three players quickly made an impact in their game against Montenegro at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre and helped the Australian team come out two goal winners in a closely fought match. The first period commenced with the familiar sight of Pietro Figlioli winning the swim up, but the ascendancy quickly went Montenegro's way with their team scoring the first goal. Australia countered with a goal from Daniel Marsden but Montenegro struck back with a quick shot. Johnno Cotteril then marked his first game for Australia with a great goal to even the scores. In the second quarter scoring was kept to just one goal from the Montenegro team. After half time the Australian team came out firing with overseas stars Figlioli and McGregor showing why they are in demand from the European professional leagues. Figlioli scored three goals and McGregor one, alongside Gavin Woods and Tim Neesham to take Australia to an 8-5 lead moving into the final quarter. Ryan Moody extended the lead early into the 4th quarter with a quick goal before Montenegro struck back with two quick shots to bring on a tense finish, but same great saves from goalkeeper Laurie Trettel saw Australia hold their two goal advantage and win 9-7. Australian coach David Neesham was happy with his team's performance and pleased to have his overseas players home. "It was great to have Pietro, Sam and Jamie back but I was also pleased with how the rest of the guys went," he commented. "Montenegro have had some good results in Europe so it is great to get a win against a tough opposition with the World Champs less than a month away."
Australia will play Montenegro again at 7.15pm Thursday 22 February at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre.
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