New Zealand v Wales

New Zealand 6 - 2 Wales

The day started with an air of excitement and nerves flowing throughout the camp. The traditional pre game activities went ahead without a hitch and following an inspirational team talk held by Zack ‘I wish I was still playing’ Jones, the teams concentration was firmly set on the challenge ahead. Prior to entering the windy and atmospheric hockey arena, the group huddled together and experienced Matt ‘I am prince charming’ Ruxton at his finest, with a speech of such passion and belief, it probably would of convinced the New Zealanders to run and hide had they heard it. However come push back the time for talking the talk had long gone, and it was time to walk the walk.

For all those who have just read the score above, you would be forgiven for thinking that the we were on the wrong end of a good hiding. The first half was a shock to the system as New Zealand were allowed to show their class as the welsh possessions were short lived, goal scoring opportunities hard to come by and without the world class defending on show there could have been real trouble. Wales entered the changing room at half time less concerned with the score or anything the opposition was doing, and more concerned with the lack of Hwyl shown and a frustrated agreement that we were gifting them the game. With 2 of the goals conceded coming through the well drilled short corner routines, and a cheap turnover in our own 25, the belief was there that if we stopped giving them the chances then we could get back into the game.

The anger and passion built up over half time transpired into a fantastic start to the second half by the welsh boys. 2 superbly executed short corners later and Wales were on course to gatecrash the New Zealanders party. For about 20 minutes of the second half the teams locked horns and a fierce battle raged on with both sides showing their abilities both in defence and attack. The final 15 minutes saw New Zealand run out the victors through perseverance and good individual skills, resulting in a disappointing end to the game and a further 3 goals.

Wales now move on with the knowledge that when we play to our potential, with the Hwyl and passion that is unique to the squad, then we are world class. The team now has one eye on tomorrow’s match against Malaysia….and the other on the Millennium stadium.

Reesy