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An experienced line up has been named for both the women s and men s New Zealand hockey teams for the Tokyo Olympics, yet for many it will still be their first major tournament. Shea McAleese who has 314 caps will compete at his 4th Olympics for the men s side while he s joined by Steve Edwards, Stephen Jenness, Hugo Inglis and Nick Wilson will be competing at their third Olympics. In the women s squad captain Stacey Michelsen and vice- captain Samantha Charlton are also both heading to their third Olympics. It s a pretty experienced group but it s also the first pinnacle event for players like Sam Lane who have previously missed out through injury or Jacob Smith and Nick Ross who have been rewarded for their perseverance. They ve shown they re really determined to be there. ....
New Zealand were desperate to make a strong start, but were again playing catch-up early. They were under plenty of pressure right from the opening whistle with goalkeeper George Enersen making a fine save to keep out Josh Simmonds from a penalty corner. Australia took just three minutes to hit the front as striker Nathan Ephraums made it three goals in three games. Tim Brand did all the hard work, launching a cracking shot at goal, which Ephraums deflected in from close range. It was 2-0 late in the first quarter with Australia pouncing after a sustained period of attack. Tom Wickham reacted quickly after Enersen couldn t keep out the initial shot, putting New Zealand in an early hole. ....