6 Nov 2009

Black Sticks v Wales first up at World Cup qualifier

11:42 am on 6 November 2009

The New Zealand men's hockey team shouldn't have too many problems in the opening match of the 6-nation World Cup qualifying tournament starting tomorrow in Invercargill.

The Black Sticks at number 8 in the world are the top ranked team, and they start their programme against 29th ranked Wales who've paid their own way here.

But the NZ coach Shane McLeod expects their enthusiasm will get them through at least part of the match.

The tournament winner will qualify for next year's World Cup in New Delhi in February.