Southern defender Kane Russell scored from a penalty corner
to help the Junior Black Sticks beat Malaysia 2-1 in extra
time yesterday.
The win meant the Junior Black Sticks finished fifth at the
Sultan of Johor Cup. Russell was the tournament's leading
scorer.
It was 0-0 at halftime before Malaysia scored the opening
goal. Jared Panchia (Auckland) equalised before Russell found
the back of the net with a drag flick in the 72nd minute.
Malaysia was awarded nine penalty corners throughout the
game, but converted only one.
"Good goalkeeping by Sam Greaney kept New Zealand in the
game," coach Grant Edwards said.
"Our passing improved throughout the game. We moved the ball
effectively in the last quarter and were able to hold the
ball under pressure ... All athletes will need to
significantly improve their core skills of passing and
receiving as we look towards the junior world cup in India."
With 14 players new to the team, the tournament was a chance
to expose players before the junior world cup qualifier in
the Gold Coast in February.
Other teams competing in the qualifier are Australia, Papua
New Guinea and Samoa. The top two teams will progress to the
junior world cup in December.
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