The Junior Black Sticks Men lost 5-1 to Australia at the Sultan of Johor Cup in Malaysia overnight and will now play Malaysia for fifth place.
Australia led 1-0 at halftime, and although the Kiwis equalised shortly into the second half they were unable to contain Australia in the last 20 minutes.
"We just didn't work hard enough in the last quarter. Our core skills of stopping the ball and passing accurately were poor throughout this game, which lead to too many turnovers and gave Australia the attacking chances they were after," said head coach Grant Edwards.
"I thought goalkeeper Richard Joyce had a great game, defending penalty corners well and having a number of really good saves. I also thought George Muir and Jared Panchia were strong in the midfield," said Edwards.
Torrential rain delayed last night's game by two hours. Weather permitting, New Zealand will now play Malaysia at 8.35pm (NZ time) tonight for fifth place. India will play Germany in the final and Australia will play Pakistan in the bronze medal match.
