The Sharks' major upset of Croatia two days earlier was a distant memory in Thursday night's late game.

Australia were caught napping and were belted 6-0 in the first quarter.

Coach Elvis Fatovic called a timeout at 4-0 and gave his team a stern talk, but it had little effect.

The Sharks conceded another goal to start the second quarter before opening their account.

They were down 10-1 at halftime and 11-3 at the last break.

Australia stopped the rot in the last quarter, outscoring Serbia 5-3, but the damage was done and they never looked capable of a miracle comeback.

The Sharks dropped to equal fourth in Pool B with a 1-2 record and they will have no relief with their next opponent.

On Saturday they play Spain, who lead their group with a 3-0 record.

Serbia took full toll of Australian fouls, scoring six goals from seven attempts with power plays, while the Sharks' return was only four from nine.

Goalkeeper Branislav Mitrovic also had a strong game with eight saves.

Dusan Mandic racked up four goals from five attempts to lead the Serbian scoring, while Blake Edwards scored two for Australia.

Australian Associated Press