Ice Blacks beat Mexico, but lose to Israel

Ryan Strayer
Ryan Strayer
The New Zealand Ice Blacks have recorded a win and a loss at the IIHF Division 2B World Championship in Mexico City.

The side began the tournament in convincing fashion with a 7-2 win over host Mexico, making it New Zealand's first win against its rival on Mexican ice.

New Zealand started well and the high-powered line-up of Chris Eaden, Martin Lee and Paris Heyd connected to open the scoring, with Eaden grabbing the goal.

The Mexicans answered back shortly after to tie the game 1-1, but Ryan Strayer, celebrating his recent NZ citizenship status, scored his first IIHF goal.

Jordan Challis and Andrew Cox scored 33 seconds apart to end the first period with New Zealand leading 4-1.

Mexico looked to right its ship by scoring within the first minute of the following period of play.

However, from there on, New Zealand was clinical in its execution of the powerplay. The Ice Blacks scored three more on the man-advantage during the second period, including a breakaway goal by Stefan Amston.

While there was no more scoring in the third period, the Ice Blacks remained resilient to hold on to their sizeable lead, with starting goalie Rick Parry standing tall when required.

The team took on Israel yesterday morning [NZ time] and went down 5-3.

The sides were locked up 1-1 at the end of the first period, with Gina Heyd scoring the goal for New Zealand.

Israel scored two goals in the second period and opened up a 3-1 lead. Gina Heyd and captain Matthew Schneider replied for New Zealand in the third quarter and the side was just one goal behind with 10 minutes left.

New Zealand tried to get the equaliser but it was not to be and Israel scored with five seconds left in the game to give it a two goal margin of victory.

New Zealand plays Georgia tomorrow [NZ time].

Add a Comment