New Zealand picked up its first win at the 2025 World Lacrosse Men’s U20 Championship on Wednesday, holding Hong Kong, China in a 10-5 result in placement play in Korea.
New Zealand outshot Hong Kong 51-25 and forced Hong Kong to commit twice as many turnovers at a 20-10 edge.
Hong Kong stuck around the game through 25 minutes, but New Zealand closed the first half with a 4-1 run within 90 seconds of furious action to break the game open. The defense barred Hong Kong from scoring for 20 minutes en-route to the final score.
New Zealand advanced in the placement bracket towards 13th place, and will face Israel on Thursday at 4:10 p.m. The win was New Zealand’s first-ever in the event, making its debut in 2025.
Hong Kong, China moves into a round robin to determine 17th through 19th place, and will face Kenya on Thursday at 9:10 a.m.
Ben Cowen had five points on two goals and three assists to lead New Zealand. Scott Catchart, Sam Denize and Noah Perez chipped in two goals each. Cayden Taylor made five saves.
Carter Li registered three goals and an assist for Hong Kong, China. Andre Ho recorded five saves.
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