Hockey: Auckland and Canterbury set NHL pace

Sam Charlton and Midlands lost 2-1 to Northland. Photo / File

Auckland's men and Canterbury's women are atop their respective Ford National Hockey League tables after the third round in Whangarei.

Auckland sit on 12 points in pursuit of their fifth straight Challenge Shield title after beating North Harbour 7-2.

Elsewhere, the Capital Cobras took a 3-2 win over the Southern Dogs in a shoot-out after the game was drawn 1-1.

Central Mavericks defeated the Canterbury Cavaliers 4-3 in penalties after a 4-4 deadlock; and Midlands powered to a 6-2 victory against Northland.

Canterbury consolidated top women's spot with 12 points after a 2-1 win over the Central Mysticks. After a goalless first half, Canterbury scored two goals in a minute through Rachel McCann and Sophie Cocks.

League hosts Northland secured a 2-1 victory over Midlands and Auckland handed North Harbour their first loss, 1-0, thanks to a goal from Sam Harrison from a penalty corner in the 25th minute.

Capital recorded their first win, 5-0, against the Southern Storm. Round four starts at 10.30am with Auckland's men against the Central Mavericks. Canterbury open the women's draw against Midlands from 11am.