New Zealand march on

from Patrick Rowley in Invercargill (12.11.2009)

New Zealand made sure of contesting the final of the second of the three World Cup qualifying tournaments when they defeated China 6-1 in the fourth of their five group matches at Invercargill.

Their fourth win took them three points clear of nearest rivals China.

They will play either China or Malaysia in Sunday’s final for the one place at stake for the 2010 World Cup finals at New Delhi.

China meet Malaysia in their final group game and need a draw to join New Zealand in the final.

New Zealand continued their impressive form, scoring twice in the first 14 minutes and not taking their foot off the pedal. Andrew Hayward, their impressive new corner man, scored the first two goals and Simon Child two in the second half.

Malaysia were in danger of falling out of the running for a place in the final when they played Scotland. They led 3-0 at half-time but then allowed an improving young Scottish side to get back into the game.

Kenny Bain and Stephen Dick scored field goals by the 49th minute for Scotland who continued to press forward.

Scotland were on the attack when the hooter sounded 23 seconds before it should have done. Only after a two minute delay did the game resume with Scotland’s drive blunted.

Scotland’s final pool match tomorrow (Saturday) is against Wales who were beaten 2-0 by Austria. If Scotland beat the Welsh they are likely to make the third/fourth place match.

Copy for Daily Telegraph 13.11.2009