Uthappa brace sinks New Zealand A in hockey

Uthappa brace sinks New Zealand A in hockey

no photo

Twin strikes by forward SK Uthappa propelled India to a 2-1 victory over New Zealand A for their second win in as many games in Auckland. Indian will begin their four-Test series against the New Zealand national side at Nelson from October 6.

Riding on their winning momentum, the tourists were on the attack from the word go and drew first blood in the fifth minute. SV Sunil worked his way past the opposition for a fluent pass to Nikkin Thimmaiah, who then set it up for Uthappa to sound the boards.

India continued to dominate the proceedings with excellent ball possession, but scored again only in the third quarter. In what was a brilliant solo run by Uthappa, the speedy forward beat the Kiwi defence and foxed the goalkeeper to strike home in the 34th minute. While India earned a penalty corner seconds later, unfortunately, they failed to convert it.

New Zealand A were awarded a penalty corner in the fourth quarter, but India goalkeeper PR Sreejesh saved it effortlessly. The hosts drew one back in the 57th minute through a field goal by Stephen Jenness.

Get updates! Follow us on

Open all