Aussie Sharks defeat Hungary to qualify for water polo quarterfinals at Paris Olympics

The Sharks have only made the Olympic quarterfinals once since 1988. Their latest win over water polo powerhouse Hungary adds a legacy-defining chapter to a team creating history in Paris.

If two words sum up the Aussie Sharks in the past week in Paris, it’s grit and determination.

The men’s national water polo team has had seven days to remember to start their Olympic campaign. Their latest victory, a thrilling 9-8 win over perennial powerhouse Hungary, locked in their quarterfinal place for the first time since London 2012.

Despite trailing 8-6 in the final quarter, the Aussies remained defensively strong and scored the winner with under a minute to go. Block after block, they put their bodies on the line to achieve the history-making win.

“I’m just extremely proud,” co-captain Blake Edwards said.

“This team just doesn’t stop believing in itself and never gives up. As a captain, I’m just overwhelmed with how courageous they are. 10 debutants and the teams who we’ve overcome so far in this tournament, it’s just simply unbelievable.In terms of significance, you’d have to put that win up there. But I feel like it’s not going to be the last one.”

Marcus Berehulak celebrates after the Aussies hung on for the win. Picture: Clive Rose/Getty Images

“We’ve beaten Serbia, which we hadn’t for 20 or 30 years,” coach Tim Hamill said.

“We back that up against France who are fourth in the world in a home Olympics. And then to play arguably the historical team of water polo, Hungary. It’s a significant day for us.”

The Australians, who have never placed better than fifth at an Olympics, have built their momentum on the back of defence.

Following their opening loss to Spain, they have put together the best defensive record in the competition. Nic Porter has been immense in goal, while the rest of his teammates work tirelessly to ensure there are no easy looks. “As long as we’re following the team strategy … the result is going to look after itself,” Edwards said.

“Goals are amazing, and it takes courage to step up. But this team has had the best defence of all teams.” all tournament, and it was shown again today.

“I’ve been in similar moments before, many times, with Australian teams where we’ve let the game slip. But the grit and determination that we show in defence makes it difficult for teams to come over the top.”

Porter has been the Sharks’ MVP with a string of incredible saves in goal. Picture: Clive Rose/Getty Images

The Aussies have one more group game against Japan on Monday before they can turn their attention to the quarterfinal stage – “I’ve been telling players not to look at the table,” Hamill joked.

But this team is playing for far more than pride. They are determined to create history and add an unprecedented chapter to the Sharks’ legacy.

“We believe in ourselves and that’s all that matters at the end of the day,” Edwards said.

“We’ve been overwhelmed with the support that we’ve been receiving recently. But you can lose respect overnight.

“So, what’s important is we know within ourselves that we’re doing everything that we can. If we put 100 per cent in at all times … the result will look after itself.”

Originally published as Aussie Sharks defeat Hungary to qualify for water polo quarterfinals at Paris Olympics