New Zealand’s Black Sticks men secured their series win over Japan with a narrow 4-3 victory in the deciding match in Hamilton, sealing the contest after both teams traded wins in the opening two games.
The final test remained tight throughout, with Sam Lane and Nic Woods helping New Zealand to a halftime lead before Japan repeatedly fought back to level the scores. A standout attacking move saw Dylan Thomas set up Lane for another goal, but the match was ultimately decided when Kane Russell fired a decisive penalty corner flick into the top corner late in the game.
The two sides are set to face off once more in an additional test match on Wednesday.
