The New Zealand women’s hockey team brightened their Commonwealth Games hopes when they outplayed Scotland 6-1 today.
The New Zealanders, ranked fourth in the world, dominated throughout and the contest was effectively over after 18 minutes when they led 4-0.
For New Zealand Rose Keddell and Shiloh Gloyn scored field goals and also converted penalty corners. Brooke Neale added another from a penalty corner and Kelsey Smith slotted one from open play.
Scotland’s sole reply came in the 52nd minute when Alison Howie scored from a penalty corner.
The match was played in strange weather – in the first half it was sunny and calm, but during the second half there was heavy rain and strong wind.
New Zealand coach Mark Hager said it was pleasing to come away with a result in their first game. “It’s good to score a few goals. It’s a bit disappointing we conceded a goal late but hopefully we will learn from that,” he said.
“Our first half was good and we were clinical but when the rain came we slowed down a bit. Credit to Scotland also. They put pressure on us and forced some turnovers.”
New Zealand meet Ghana tomorrow.