The Black Sticks men triumphed in a series over Japan PHOTO: HOCKEY NZ
The Black Sticks men hockey side have won their series against Japan after a 4-3 victory in the third and deciding game.
Earlier Japan had won the opening game 5-2, with New Zealand taking the second 5-1.
The deciding game in Hamilton had both nations showing plenty of intent to attack.
Sam Lane and Nic Woods both scored from penalty corners to give the home side a 2-1 lead at half time.
Japan then levelled just after the break before New Zealand scored one of the goals of the series as Dylan Thomas drove the ball into the circle which Sam Lane finished off at the back post.
The visitors were level again late in the third quarter, setting up a tense final 15 minutes with everything still to play for.
The game was decided by Kane Russell who showed his prowess at penalty corners by firing an unstoppable flick into the top of the goal in the 50th minute.
While the series is decided, the two teams will meet once more in an additional test match on Wednesday.
The Black Sticks men and women will both play in World Cups this year.
AloJapan.com