Hockey: Aussies comeback to defeat NZ under-21s

New Zealand were unable to hold onto a 3-0 lead against Australia after the trans-Tasman rivals staged a magnificent comeback to win 4-3 at the under 21 men's hockey Sultan of Johor Cup tournament last night.

The New Zealanders were hoping to bag the first win to keep their hopes of making the finals alive, following a loss and draw in their two earlier games.

"It was a tough one to stomach tonight, not often do New Zealand sides find themselves 3-0 up against Australia but you have to admire their [Australia's] resolve to hang in there and fight their way back into a contest," said coach Bryce Collins.

"There were certainly some tough lessons and some real disappointment in not closing out the game. However, there were plenty of positives and we will pick ourselves up and approach the Pakistan game very positively.

"While making the final is unlikely, it is mathematically still possible. Importantly, we want to consolidate our position in the top four and play off for a medal on Sunday.

The Kiwis were in control in the first half with Nic Woods coolly completing a well worked penalty corner after just two minutes of play.

Despite Australia stepping up the pressure and being awarded three penalty corners, they could not convert. Just before halftime, Daniel Panchia's drag flick sailed into goal to give Kiwis the 2-0 and Auckland's Kim Kingstone added one more in the 41st minute.

"I was pleased with our start, creating a penalty corner that we scored off within the opening minute of play set the tone from the word go. I think we are creating more chances each game and that showed by winning eight penalty corners, seven in the first half alone. We also executed the fundamentals much better, resulting in seven of eight attempts being saved - an area we have struggled with in the two earlier games," said Collins.

The Aussie come-back began in the 51st minute with Andrew Scanlon, Joshua Brethern, Oliver Crane and Max Hendry securing the win.

The Kiwis now have a must win clash against Pakistan at 9pm tonight (NZ time).

"Pakistan present a differently challenge, counter attack hockey that we will need to control. It's a game we need to win to achieve our goal," said Collins.