The Volleyroos had their chances but made careless mistakes and lost form to suffer a five-set loss to Canada at the World Cup in Japan.
At 19-18 in the fifth set, the Canadian serve clipped the net and rolled onto the Australian side of the court, giving the North Americans a 32-34, 25-14, 25-21, 27-29, 20-18 victory.
But Australia had plenty of chances, including two match points at 14-12, and again at 17-16, but could not put the Canadians away.
Coach Roberto Santilli elected to start a weary Tom Edgar on the bench, after his record-breaking 50 points on Saturday against Egypt.
Replacement opposite, Paul Carroll, picked up where his captain left off, helping Australia to a commanding 24-19 lead, before careless mistakes allowed Canada to level at 24-24.
Australia eventually took the set 34-32, but lost form in the next two sets, before the return of Edgar in the fourth set sparked a revival.
Edgar said despite the loss he was proud how his team fought out the match.
"I still think we're making the same mistakes that have plagued us for most of the tournament, some easy errors in all areas of the game at important moments."
Australia finishes the first leg of the World Cup with one win from four matches, with coach Santilli feeling positive about the direction his young team is heading.
"We are still struggling with reception, but we have young guys, and sometimes you just have to be patient."
Edgar with 21 points led the scoring for Australia, despite spending much of the match on the bench, while Carroll finished with 20.
The Volleyroos now have two days off and head to Toyama, where they'll take on Poland, Russia and Argentina.
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