THE VANTAGE BLACK STICKS DOMINATE IN DANE LETT’S 150TH
Match Two of the Men’s Summer of Hockey series in Hamilton delivered another perfect day for fast, high-quality hockey, with the Vantage Black Sticks Men knowing a win was crucial to level the series against Japan.
Before pushback, a special milestone was celebrated, with Dane Lett earning his 150th international cap for the Vantage Black Sticks Men. A remarkable achievement for one of the most dedicated and humble players in the group, shared with his family in front of a home crowd.
The Vantage Black Sticks Men were boosted by the return of Sam Lane, Kane Russell, and Simon Yorston, who rejoined the side after missing the opening match due to Indian Premier League commitments, additions that made an immediate impact.
The game started at pace, and it didn’t take long for the Vantage Black Sticks Men to strike first. Kane Russell stepped up at the first penalty corner opportunity, delivering a powerful flick past the goalkeeper to open the scoring and give the hosts a 1–0 lead.
Momentum continued into the second quarter, highlighted by a moment of brilliance from Dylan Thomas, who produced an outrageous upright reverse shot that lit up the crowd and left teammates in amazed. Shortly after, Sam Lane capitalised on a loose ball inside the circle, scrambling hard before striking a squeeze shot into the top right corner to extend the lead. Japan responded just before halftime with a late goal to pull one back, but the Vantage Black Sticks Men still headed into the break with a 3–1 advantage after dominating much of the contest.
The third quarter belonged firmly to the Vantage Black Sticks Men, who controlled territory and created a wave of scoring opportunities. Dylan Thomas added his second with a well-taken deflection, before Kane Russell completed his double as well from another penalty corner flick to stretch the lead further.
The final quarter saw continued pressure from the Vantage Black Sticks Men, with Japan’s defence holding firm to prevent further scoring. The match finished 5–1, a commanding performance that levelled the series at one win apiece.
All attention now turns to the series decider tomorrow at 6:30pm at the Gallagher Hockey Centre. Fans are encouraged to get down and support the team live or tune in via Hockey TV to see who claims the series.
New Zealand Goal Scorers:
8’ Kane Russell – Penalty Corner Goal
23' Dylan Thomas - Field Goal
21' Sam Lane - Field Goal
35' Dylan Thomas - Field Goal
37’ Kane Russell – Penalty Corner Goal