Hockey: Black Sticks fall to Netherlands

The New Zealand men's hockey team have been beaten 4-0 by the Netherlands in the first of two friendly matches at the Wagener Stadium in Amstelveen.

The Netherlands took advantage of a slow start by the New Zealanders and were 2-0 ahead after 20 minutes.

New Zealand responded to force three good saves from the Dutch keeper.

The Netherlands went 3-0 up when they scored off a penalty corner early in the second half as both teams created opportunities.

New Zealand had five penalty corner attempts and four opportunities on goal in the second half, but could not convert their chances.

With eight minutes remaining, the Dutch made it 4-0 with a skillful reverse stick shot.

"We created some excellent opportunities in both halves and I'm disappointed not to have converted at least one of our six penalty corner attempts," NZ coach Shane McLeod said.

The teams play again tonight (NZ time).

- NZPA