New Zealand captured its first title at the Azlan Shah Cup after topping Argentina by a slim 1-0 margin in the final game. Andy Hayward scored the lone marker of the game on a penalty corner in the 18th minute. The goal stood as the eventual title winner, dashing Argentina’s hopes of the crown.
“It was a grind rather than a true showcase of hockey tonight – it was very hot conditions and seven games of hockey over 10 days was taking its toll on players. The ball was turned over more than we would have liked,” says McLeod.
Argentina created more opportunities than New Zealand, with their counter attack being extremely difficult to defend especially in the later parts of the game.
“Our defence has been outstanding throughout this tournament and despite Argentina’s continual pressure, we held strong and were fortunate to have scored from our only penalty corner,” says McLeod.
Both teams must be pleased with the outcome of the last major test before the London Games as they hope the fine showing in Malaysia will translate into success on the Olympic stage in just over 50 days.
In the bronze medal game, India pulled out a come-from-behind victory against Great Britain with a 3-1 showing. Great Britain took the 1-0 lead in the 35th minutes, but India stormed back with three unanswered goals to take the win. Sandeep Singh put in the key go-ahead, 2-1 goal in the 52nd minutes and the win was sealed with the 3-1 marker with one minute left in regulation.
Rounding out the day’s action was the fifth-place game, which Korea won, 3-2 against Malaysia. The Koran’s put in two second half goals to take a 3-1 lead and hung on through a late Malaysian comeback to earn bragging rights in the placement game. Pakistan finished in seventh place in the seven-team field.
