PHOTO
The Black Sticks men made it two wins from two at the FIH Nations Cup in Cape Town, beating Korea 6-2 yesterday in a game that exploded into life in the second half.
Both sides created chances early, but strong defensive structures and disciplined goalkeeping kept the game tight.
Korea struck first through a penalty corner, flicking the ball past goalkeeper Dom Dixon to take a 1-0 lead into halftime.
The Black Sticks stormed out of halftime, with Otago veteran Kane Russell equalising within the opening minute of the third quarter, instantly swinging momentum back New Zealand’s way.
Minutes later, Scott Boyde put the Black Sticks in front.
Dylan Thomas unleashed a powerful shot that was saved by the Korean goalkeeper, but Boyde was perfectly positioned to pounce on the rebound and slam home his first goal of the tournament, giving the Black Sticks a 2-1 lead.
Korea refused to go away and struck late in the quarter, converting another penalty corner with just 15sec remaining to level the scores at 2-2 heading into the final break.
With the game in the balance, the Black Sticks produced a stunning final quarter.
Thomas started the scoring spree with a well-worked field goal before Russell added his second penalty corner goal to stretch the lead to 4-2.
Then came a moment to remember for Benji Culhane.
The Otago youngster scored his first international goal after joining a rapid counter-attack, timing his run perfectly before diving on to a pass inside the circle and sweeping the ball past the Korean goalkeeper.
It was a brilliant finish and a milestone for Culhane, who is also a talented cricketer and is the son of former All Blacks, Highlanders and Southland first five Simon Culhane.
With just 35sec remaining, Thomas grabbed his second goal of the game, putting the finishing touch on a dominant performance and sealing the 6-2 victory.
The result took the Black Sticks to six points from their opening two games, sitting just behind Japan, who lead the pool with seven points from three games.
It has been an impressive start for the Black Sticks, who are showing both resilience and attacking firepower as they chase a third consecutive Nations Cup title.
They next play Malaysia tonight.
• The women’s Nations Cup tournament started in Auckland last night. — Allied Media