SAM LANE’S DOUBLE, NICK LIDSTONE’S FIRST
The Vantage Black Sticks continued their strong start to the 2025 Sultan of Azlan Shah Cup with a well-earned 3–1 win over Korea in challenging, rain-soaked conditions. With Korea coming off a narrow 1–0 loss to India, the match presented a crucial opportunity for the Vantage Black Sticks to climb to the top of the table, and they seized it.
The opening quarter was evenly balanced, with both teams generating chances but unable to make the early breakthrough. As the weather deteriorated and water began pooling on the surface, the game shifted into a scrappier, more unpredictable contest.
Despite the conditions, the Vantage Black Sticks struck first. Sustained pressure late in the second quarter earned a penalty corner, and Sam Lane converted with precision to give the side a 1–0 lead. But in the final second of the half, Korea won a penalty corner of their own and levelled the score, sending the teams into the break locked at 1–1.
The third quarter belonged almost entirely to the Vantage Black Sticks. They dominated territory, controlled the tempo, and created seven scoring opportunities while limiting Korea to just one. Lane and Isaac Houlbrooke came agonisingly close on multiple occasions, but the Korean defence held firm to keep the match level heading into the final period.
The fourth quarter was where the Vantage Black Sticks made their dominance count. Lane produced a superb deflection to score his second of the match, restoring the lead and shifting momentum firmly in their favour. Moments later, debutant Nick Lidstone, playing just his second international match, swept home the team’s third goal, a brilliant moment for the youngster and another great milestone in his first tournament.
Lane’s two-goal performance earned him Player of the Match honours, capping off a standout game and a strong day for the Vantage Black Sticks, who now move to the top of the tournament standings.
A successful outing, a confident performance, and excellent momentum as the Azlan Shah Cup continues.