AIFF Media Team

MUMBAI: New Zealand opened their points tally in the Hero Intercontinental Cup after the All Whites defeated Chinese Taipei 1-0 at the Andheri Sports Complex today (June 05, 2018) in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

Myer Bevan’s 36^th minute penalty gave the All Whites three points as they trumped over their opponents.

The All Whites dominated the lion’s share of possession and attacked at will on the opposition goal. In the 35^th minute, Sarpreet Singh was brought down inside the box after a heavy tackle by the opposition defender to award New Zealand a penalty.

Myer Bevan stepped up to the spot and scored past the Chinese Taipei custodian to put the All Whites ahead. The half-time scoreline read 1-0 in New Zealand’s favour and shortly after the second half started, the All Whites were back at attacking again.

In the 50^th minute, a shot from inside the box, although was saved by the Chinese Taipei custodian, just went inches over the bar as New Zealand looked to cement their authority in the match.

Chinese Taipei recouped and in the 67^th minute tried to equalize proceedings but a cross from the right flank was thwarted away by the Kiwi defence line. Two minutes later a shot from inside the box went inches wide of the Kiwi goal.

In the 74^th minute, New Zealand had the opportunity to double their lead but could not make the most out of it. The full-time scoreline read 1-0 in New Zealand’s favour and the All Whites will face India next on June 07, 2018.