Neptunes WPSC have reached an agreement with Sergio Afric to become their new head coach, Matthew Bonello, secretary of the club, said in a statement yesterday.

Afric signed a two-year contract with Neptunes yesterday afternoon, the statement added.

News of Afric's move to the Balluta Bay club is likely to have a few eyebrows raised as just two weeks ago, the Croatian coach led Sliema, Neptunes' bitter rivals, to their 29th league title.

The Neptunes statement quoted Afric as saying that he is pleased to have rejoined Neptunes and looks forward to the challenge created by his new post.

Afric's principal task will be to end Neptunes' title drought stretching back to 1993.

The Croatian, who was also at the helm of San Giljan ASC during their halcyon years in 1994 and 1995, has a remarkable record in local waterpolo having helped Sliema to four consecutive league title in the last four years. Afric was also the architect of Sirens' league and KO double in 2000.

At Neptunes, Afric takes over from Dirk Dowling who was relieved of his duties after the team's 6-4 defeat to Sliema in the decisive title showdown.

Karl Izzo was installed as stand-in coach for the team's commitments in the Knock-Out competition but Neptunes' bid to defend last year's title ended when they lost to eventual winners Sirens in the semi-finals.

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