A much-improved New Zealand team battled hard to draw 2-2 with Olympic champions Germany at the Punjab Gold Cup men's hockey tournament in Chandigarh overnight.
After losing their opening match to hosts India 0-2 two days ago, the team played a more intense, structured game to be 1-0
up at halftime.
The lead came early, through a stroke converted by Lloyd Stephenson in the fourth minute after the German keeper took out Phil Burrows in the circle as he was attempting to score.
Germany fought back vigorously, but a cohesive defensive effort and some excellent keeping from Kyle Pontifex kept the Black Sticks in front at the break.
In the eighth minute of the second half, debutant Blair Hilton put New Zealand 2-0 ahead, pouncing on a goalkeeper error from the Germans.
Germany responded four minutes later after forcing a penalty corner and converting through a drag flick.
New Zealand maintained pressure and created a number of chances but couldn't convert against the solid German defence.
With four minutes left, Germany won another penalty corner and again converted with a drag flick, to Leitz Tobias.
Pontifex was named man of the match following an excellent display, manager Tony Edwards said.
Overall, the team played at a higher level than against India and showed the benefit of having a game under their belt, he said.
There was good ball being moved through to the strikers, which was reflected in increased shots on goal and an improved team effort, he said.
Others to impress were Nick Wilson and Phil Burrows up front, Casey Henwood in the midfield and Dean Couzins in defence, who also captained the side today.
- NZPA
