Hockey: Black Sticks claim fifth

Simon Child scored a goal in this 200th international. Photo / Getty

The Black Sticks men overcame France 6-3 last night to win their fifth/sixth playoff at the Champions Challenge in Malaysia.

Simon Child celebrated his 200th test with a strong performance and added to his impressive goal tally at the tournament.

The Black Sticks led 3-1 at halftime with goals from Child, Stephen Jenness and Phil Burrows and continued their momentum after the break.

Alex Shaw and Jared Panchia both added to the score before France scored two quick goals inside the final 15 minutes.

The Black Sticks were swift to respond though and bolstered their defence before Hugo Inglis sealed the game with a field goal in the final minute.

Head coach Colin Batch said it was a positive way to finish the tournament for his side.

"We had a lot of possession early and defended strongly for most of the game. After going up 5-1 we let in two goals which was a bit disappointing but scored again right at the death," he said.

"Overall it was a solid performance for us and a good part of our preparation towards the World Cup.

"We won five out of six games at the tournament so we feel our final placing is not a true reflection of our overall performance."

Black Sticks 6: (Stephen Jenness, Simon Child, Phil Burrows, Alex Shaw, Jared Panchia, Hugo Inglis)
France 3: (Matthieu Durchon, Martin Genestet, Tom Genestet)
Halftime: Black Sticks 3-1