Hockey: Black Sticks fall to Great Britain

Andy Hayward. Photo / Doug Sherring

The Black Sticks unbeaten run at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup has come to an end with a 2-1 defeat to Great Britain in Ipoh, Malaysia last night.

The New Zealand men's team were always slightly off the pace set by the impressive Great Britain side who are ranked fourth in the world - three places ahead of the Black Sticks.

Great Britain knocked in goals in the 18th and 27th minutes to Ashley Jackson and Matt Daly respectively. The Black Sticks couldn't respond until just before full time when Andy Hayward converted a penalty corner.

The Black Sticks remain on the top of the points table despite the loss.

Black Sticks coach Shane McLeod said Great Britain dominated the first half and his side did well not to concede more early goals.

"In the second spell we had a better share of possession and controlled more of the tempo of the game but were always a bit off with our execution."

The Black Sticks face hosts Malaysia in their second to last pool play match early tomorrow morning (NZ time).