FINAL QUARTER BRILLIANCE FROM THE VANTAGE BLACK STICKS MEN

The Vantage Black Sticks Men have made it two wins from two matches at the 2026 FIH Nations Cup in Cape Town, defeating Korea 6–2 in a match that exploded into life in the second half.

Both sides created chances early, but strong defensive structures and disciplined goalkeeping kept the game tight. Korea struck first through a penalty corner, flicking the ball past goalkeeper Dom Dixon to take a 0–1 lead into halftime.

The Vantage Black Sticks stormed out of halftime, with Kane Russell equalising within the opening minute of the third quarter, instantly swinging momentum back New Zealand's way.

Minutes later, Scott Boyde put the Vantage Black Sticks in front. Dylan Thomas unleashed a powerful shot that was saved by the Korean goalkeeper, but Boyde was perfectly positioned to pounce on the rebound and slam home his first goal of the tournament, giving the Vantage Black Sticks a 2–1 lead.

Korea refused to go away and struck late in the quarter, converting another penalty corner with just 15 seconds remaining to level the scores at 2–2 heading into the final break.

With the match in the balance, the Vantage Black Sticks produced a stunning final quarter.

Dylan Thomas started the scoring spree with a well-worked field goal before Kane Russell added his second penalty corner goal of the evening to stretch the lead to 4–2.

Then came a moment to remember for Benji Culhane. The youngster scored his first international goal after joining a rapid counterattack, timing his run perfectly before diving onto a pass inside the circle and sweeping the ball past the Korean goalkeeper. It was a brilliant finish and a special milestone in his international career.

With just 35 seconds remaining, Dylan Thomas grabbed his second goal of the game, putting the finishing touch on a dominant performance and sealing a 6–2 victory.

The result sees the Vantage Black Sticks move to six points from their opening two matches, sitting just behind Japan, who lead the pool with seven points from three games.

It's been an impressive start to the Nations Cup campaign, with the Vantage Black Sticks showing both resilience and attacking firepower as they chase a third consecutive Nations Cup title.

Attention now turns to Malaysia in their third pool match. The Vantage Black Sticks take on Malaysia at 10:15pm NZT on Tuesday 16 June, with the match available to watch live and free on TVNZ+.

New Zealand Goal Scorers:

31' Kane Russell - Penalty Corner Goal

34' Scott Boyde - Field Goal

47' Dylan Thomas - Field Goal

52' Kane Russell - Penalty Corner Goal

55' Benji Culhane - Field Goal

59' Dylan Thomas - Field Goal