Latest news with #JustinDaigle
Scoop
03-05-2025
- Sport
- Scoop
Black Ice Edges Bulgaria In Thriller At Sold-Out Dunedin Ice Stadium
02 May A deafening crowd roared to its feet in Dunedin tonight as the Ice Blacks secured a thrilling 3-2 win over Bulgaria at the IIHF Division II Group B World Championships. With a sell-out home crowd packed into the Dunedin Ice Stadium, the Ice Blacks delivered one of their grittiest performances of the tournament, grinding out a hard-fought victory that keeps their silver medal hopes alive heading into the final day. In a game that was evenly matched from puck drop to final whistle, it was New Zealand's composure in key moments - and the electric atmosphere behind them - that made the difference. Fan favourite Justin Daigle sealed the win with just minutes left on the clock, wiring home the game-winning goal off a crisp feed from Colin McIntosh to send the arena into absolute chaos. The Canadian-born blueliner's celebration was matched only by the thunderous response from the home faithful. New Zealand found the net once per period despite a penalty-heavy contest that saw both benches routinely shortened by minor infractions. The first goal came off the stick of Colin McIntosh, who was later named Player of the Game for New Zealand. The dynamic forward was everywhere tonight, generating relentless pressure with linemates Chris Eaden and Jacob Carey. The trio combined for two of the team's three goals and countless high-danger chances. Alexander Regan added the second marker for the Kiwis, taking a perfect pass from Eaden and finishing with precision midway through the second. But Bulgaria never backed down, clawing back both times to even the score and threatening late into the third. McIntosh's late-game heroics on the Daigle goal ultimately separated the two sides, pushing New Zealand ahead for good. With the win, New Zealand now faces Iceland tomorrow night in a clash that will decide the silver medal. Puck drops at 8:00 p.m. in what promises to be another electric atmosphere. Strap in, Dunedin. One more game. One more medal. And this team is just getting warmed up.
Scoop
28-04-2025
- Sport
- Scoop
Georgia Proves Too Strong As Ice Blacks Fall 5-0 In Dunedin
The New Zealand Ice Blacks faced a formidable challenge last night at the IIHF World Championship Division II B, going down 5-0 to a powerful Georgian side at Dunedin Ice Stadium. From the opening face-off, Georgia asserted their dominance with a fast, physical game, controlling much of the play and keeping the Ice Blacks pinned in their defensive zone for long stretches. Georgia, who have become an increasingly competitive force in international ice hockey, showed their class, strength, and clinical finishing ability, and now sit unbeaten at the top of the tournament table with two wins from two games. Despite the scoreline, the Ice Blacks showed heart and grit in a bruising contest. Stand-out performances came from forward Colin McIntosh, Justin Daigle, Jacob Carey, and the tireless Joe Orr, who was named New Zealand's Player of the Game. After two games, New Zealand sits in fourth place with one win and one loss. Today is a scheduled rest day for all teams, offering a chance for recovery and regrouping with low-impact on-ice sessions. The Ice Blacks will look to bounce back tomorrow when they face Thailand, who are still searching for their first win of the tournament. New Zealand will be aiming to reignite their campaign and climb back up the standings. The puck drops for New Zealand vs Thailand tomorrow at 8pm - a crucial game as the second half of the tournament unfolds. About the Ice Blacks The Ice Blacks are New Zealand's national men's ice hockey team, representing the country on the world stage in IIHF competition. Known for their grit, determination, and fast-paced style of play, the Ice Blacks are a proud symbol of the growth of ice hockey in New Zealand. They regularly compete in the IIHF World Championship Division II tournaments and have a strong following at home and abroad. About the IIHF World Championship Division II B The IIHF World Championship Division II B is an international tournament featuring emerging hockey nations from around the globe. Teams compete for promotion to higher divisions, with each game offering valuable world ranking points. The 2025 tournament is being held in Dunedin, New Zealand, providing a rare opportunity for local fans to see world championship action on home ice. Teams include: New Zealand (Ice Blacks), Chinese Taipei, Georgia, Thailand, Iceland and Bulgaria
