SYDNEY, Nov 15: Australia won first of their World Hockey Cup Qualifying matches in Fiji, overcoming a one goal deficit at half time to overpower New Zealand 4-2. Black Sticks were the first to open scoring when Phil Burrows struck in fifth minute. However, the lead was short lived when Liam De Young made his way through New Zealand defence to sneak one through in the eleven minutes.

A penalty corner in 22nd minute saw New Zealand regained the lead again when Ryan Archibald pounced on a rebound at close range, it was a lead they took into half time break with neither side able to break its opposition’s defence for remainder of the half.

In early stages of second half, Kookaburras again struggled to get ascendancy. However, a Travis Brooks field goal in 54th minute got Kookaburras rolling and Nathan Eglington jumped onboard when he converted three minutes later from the top of circle.

With a 3-2 lead, Michael McCann made score look a little flattering with a beautiful reverse stick which beat New Zealand keeper to give Kookaburras a 4-2 win.

Kookaburras play Fiji on Thursday, while Black Sticks play them Wednesday. Top two teams after Thursday’s match then progress to the final on Saturday to qualify for next year’s World Cup Germany.—Agencies