CARTERTON (New Zealand): Pakistan won the hockey series against New Zealand on Thursday after playing a 1-1 draw in the fifth and final test here at the Trust House Hockey Wairarapa Complex.

The green-shirts took the series 2-1 as two tests ended in draw.

New Zealand won the series opener 3-2. It was followed by a 2-2 draw in the second game. Pakistan in the third match registered a fine 4-2 win, and then triumphed again in the fourth match 2-1 on Wednesday.

Thursday’s match began at a fast pace but no team could score a goal till the half time (first two quarters). The deadlock persisted in the third quarter as well.

Finally, Pakistan managed to break the ice in the second minute of the last quarter when Mohammad Irfan Jr scored an open play goal.

The hosts, who needed to win this match to level the series, fought back hard. They equalised with 10 minutes left when Sam Lane sent in a fierce reverse shot from the edge of the circle.

The 1-1 scoreline remained intact till the final hooter, giving the tourists series victory.

Appreciating the touring side’s performance, New Zealand coach Smith said, “Pakistan were impressive throughout the series.”

Published in Dawn, March 24th, 2017