15 Jun 2013

Black Sticks men draw with Dutch

6:37 am on 15 June 2013

The New Zealand men's hockey team has drawn 3-3 with hosts The Netherlands in their opening match at the World League in Rotterdam.

New Zealand led 2-1 at half-time with Hugo Inglis scoring both goals.

Their lead was extended early in the second half by Jacob Smith.

However the world number three Dutch stormed back, dominating the second half and grabbing a draw.

In the other match in the group India and Ireland drew 4-4.

New Zealand play Ireland next.

Earlier the New Zealand women thrashed India 7-0.

The top three teams from the World League automatically qualify for the 2014 World Cup.