VANTAGE BLACK STICKS VS SPAIN: A GAME OF TWO HALVES

The Vantage Black Sticks Men faced Spain in a closely contested match, with Spain narrowly securing a 3-2 victory in the last quarter. The game was marked by dynamic play and determined efforts to convert opportunities from both sides.

The first quarter saw balanced possession. Both teams tested each other's defences, and a reverse pass by Isaac Houlbrooke for a Simon Child deflection in goal just 7 minutes into the game signalled New Zealand’s attacking intent. Although breakaways were limited, the Black Sticks created more goal opportunities than Spain.

In the second quarter, the Black Sticks increased their presence in their attacking 25, with a couple of penalty corners for New Zealand, which they couldn’t capitalize on. Spain responded with their own PC attempt, which went just wide.

Spain started the third quarter strongly, firing an early shot on goal. New Zealand’s defence, led by a composed goalie, held firm. At 35 minutes, Kane threw the ball overhead down the other end, maintaining consistent attacking pressure. Malachi Buschl created a chance with a speedy approach at the circle. After some determined play, Nic Woods, the team’s captain, calmly collected the ball and threw it across the goal, leading to Jacob Smith’s quick tap-in, bringing the score to 2-0. Play moved rapidly between both circles, and Malachi created another opportunity with an excellent reverse shot on goal, narrowly missing the top of the net.

In the final quarter, the Black Sticks faced increasing pressure as Spain began to dictate the tempo. With 7 minutes remaining, Spain executed a quick autoplay, throwing it to the spot for a shot on goal, which was defended by the goalie but picked up and swept straight into the net by Spain’s player, Bonastre.

Just 90 seconds later, a deflected free hit allowed Spain an open shot on goal, and with one tap, Gerard Clapes sent a powerful shot into the top right-hand corner, bringing the game to a draw.

In the last 5 minutes, both teams sought another goal, resulting in end-to-end play. With determination and every last bit in the tank, Simon earned a penalty corner for New Zealand, but the boys at the top of the bracket just missed the mark. In the final minute, Spain secured their victory with a precise drag into the bottom left corner.

While the men couldn’t secure the win they displayed many encouraging moments in both attack and defence, setting a promising tone for the upcoming road ahead. They will head into their final practice match against Spain on Tuesday, 16 July 5am NZT before the big climb begins.