Black Sticks stay unbeaten at Azlan Shah Cup
- editor59343
- 53 minutes ago
- 2 min read
The Black Sticks men have won their match of the 2025 Sultan of Azlan Shah Cup, securing a 4–2 victory over Canada.
The game was brought forward two hours due to ongoing weather concerns and player welfare considerations.
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In the opening quarter New Zealand dominated the first 15 minutes, generating 23 circle entries and 10 goal-scoring opportunities, while restricting Canada to just one of each.
Despite the pressure, the breakthrough didn’t come, with the best chance denied by a brilliant diving save from the Canadian goalkeeper after a powerful shot from Sam Lane at the top of the circle.
The second quarter saw the Black Sticks get on the scoreboard through George Baker with a sharp deflection from a quick baseline pass, and moments later Sam Lane doubled the lead from a well-executed penalty corner.
New Zealnad ontinued to create chances across the quarter, but the score remained 2–0 heading into halftime as Canada held off a third goal.
The third quarter exploded with action, producing three goals inside the first two minutes. Isaac Houlbrooke struck first with an outstanding reverse-stick finish on a counter-attack that originated deep inside the Black Sticks’ half.
Canada immediately responded with a penalty corner conversion that slipped past Leon Hayward and the runners, making it 3–1. But moments later, Baker restored the buffer, scoring his second of the match with a quality post-up, roll, and upright finish. The Black Sticks took a 4–1 lead into the final quarter.
Despite continuing to dominate and create numerous opportunities, the final pass or connection often went missing for the Black Sticks.
Several goals were left out on the pitch, and Canada capitalised with a second goal late in the match. However, the Black Sticks closed out the game to secure a deserved 4–2 victory.
With three strong matches behind them, attention now turns to a marquee clash against India, one of the world’s top hockey nations.