Hockey: Win for under-21 side

New Zealand picked up their first win at the men's under 21 Sultan of Johor Cup hockey tournament in Malaysia.

The Future Black Sticks beat Pakistan 3-2, the result leaving New Zealand in contention for a medal with one round robin game to play, against Britain, on Saturday morning (NZT).

Harry Miskimmin put New Zealand in front in the sixth minute, Nic Woods doubling the lead from a penalty corner 13 minutes later.

Craig Jones made it 3-0 in the 44th minute before Pakistan battled back with two goals in the final 10 minutes from Abu Mahmood.

Head coach Bryce Collins said it was great for the team to come away with a positive result for their efforts.

"It was a huge relief to get a win after being so close in all three previous matches," Black Sticks head coach Bryce Collins said.

"It's a significant confidence boost ahead of what will be a very tough game against Great Britain.

"We are not yet assured of a bronze medal play-off spot but will know what we have to do by the time our game rolls around. We are the last game of the round so depending on earlier matches we will either be through or at least know the equation."