Barbarians defend home pool after taking top honours at Masters Tournament

The WA Water Polo Masters Tournament, hosted by the Geraldton Junior and Masters Water Polo Committees, provided plenty of excitement with funds raised going towards sending teams to the 2024 AYWP championships.

The tournament featured teams from Perth, including the Triton and Melville clubs, while local pride was at stake as two Geraldton teams, Geraldton and the Barbarians, aimed to defend their home turf.

Melville got off to a strong start, securing their first win against Geraldton despite impressive performances by Geraldton regulars Mick Rock and Ray Pead.

In the subsequent game against Triton, Brendon Jones put on an admirable display in the goal for Geraldton. However, despite his efforts, the team fell by a narrow margin to Triton in a hard-fought contest.

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the intense battle between the Barbarians and Triton, with the former clinching victory by a solitary goal. Corey Smith emerged as the star of the match, netting an impressive four goals for his Barbarians composite team.

The Barbarians continued their impressive run by securing a commanding victory over the Geraldton team with a score line of 10-3. Their star player Luke Nuewert was in top form contributing five goals to his team’s triumph.

“It was a tough day with four games and a break from training. But it was a great hit out and the old boys still got plenty of tricks up their sleeves,” he said.

As the tournament neared its conclusion, Geraldton and Melville competed for bronze with Melville claiming the win.

But the Barbarians ensured it was the locals who finished on top in a fiercely contested match. They showcased their skill and determination, ultimately defeating Triton with a convincing score of 4-1.

Julia Gourley, the association spokesperson, expressed her delight with the event.

“The tournament provided an opportunity for former Australian players to reunite with their lifetime friends, some of whom had played together as young teenagers,” she said.

“The success of this year’s Masters event ensures that it will become an annual fixture on our calendar.”

With all funds raised during the tournament dedicated to sending two 18/U teams to Brisbane for the 2024 Australian Youth Water Polo Championships, the event served as a testament to the community’s passion and support for water polo.