KEY POINTS:
Germany showed New Zealand why they are the world No 1 ranked men's hockey team with a comprehensive 6-2 win in Cologne this morning (NZ time).
It was a humbling way for the Black Sticks to begin their two-week tour, with the Germans dominating in most facets to open up a 4-0 lead early in the second spell, having doubled their halftime advantage.
New Zealand opened their account through a rare attack when Shea McAleese turned quickly on a short pass, shooting strongly and catching the goalkeeper unaware.
The Germans, who won a host of penalty corners, reasserted their dominance with two well-executed goals before New Zealand added their second just before fulltime.
A long ball from Blair Hopping found Bevan Hari unmarked at the top of the circle.
With the goalkeeper advancing, Hopping unselfishly dropped the ball into space on the left where a supporting Phil Burrows pushed the ball into an empty net.
Germany are in New Zealand's pool at the Beijing Olympic Games in August.
The teams were to meet in a second international tonight (NZ time).
- NZPA
