The Black Sticks Men's hopes of advancing to the quarterfinals of men’s hockey at the Paris Olympics disappeared after a brutal 5-0 loss to Australia.
Though New Zealand created several decent chances at Stade Olympique on Thursday (Friday NZ Time), their poor record in being unable to convert penalty corners continued against the Kookaburras.
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Australia’s first goal came after the ball appeared to hit the foot of an attacking player on the way into the goal.
The on-field umpire called no goal, but the Australians referred the decision to the video umpire, who overturned the on-field ruling and awarded the goal to Australia.
The Kookaburras' second goal came when a crash ball from outside the circle missed everyone but rebounded off the post into the path of Blake Govers, who was not going to let an easy opportunity go to waste.
Australia’s other three goals came from two penalty corners in the fourth quarter and a well-executed move from the wing with a baseline pass for an easy tap-in in the third period.
The Black Sticks Men have one Pool B match remaining, against fellow winless side Ireland on Friday (3am Saturday NZT).