Hockey: Black Sticks beat China

New Zealand men's hockey team had a winning start at the World Cup qualifying tournament in Changzhou, China.

They beat the home side 4-1 in the opening match.

Phil Burrows scored twice while Simon Child and Ben Collier grabbed a goal each.

New Zealand led 4-0 at halftime.

Coach Kevin Towns said that despite slacking off in the second half, it was an encouraging first-up effort, with his side dominating the first half and never really being threatened.

He said it was a match they targeted so it was important they played well, and they did control possession well despite the lack of goals in the second half.

Towns pointed out that some squad members were ill in the days leading up to the game so he has his fingers crossed that they will be back to full health in time for Friday's second match of the tournament against Japan.

- NEWSTALK ZB