Delaney miracle on and off the field for New Zealand

WHEN the final hooter roared after New Zealand’s comeback 3-2 victory against Japan at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium on Monday, former national junior player and current head coach Mike Delaney slammed the side glass of the bench in excitement.

- CHANDRA PRABHU @Chennai

New Zealand players celebrate a goal against Japan on Monday | P.JAWAHAR

(P.JAWAHAR)

For the first time in 12 years, the Junior Black Sticks are a step away from the quarterfinals as group leaders.

The coach breathed a sigh of relief and went on to congratulate the staff and his wards, in a match that lasted two hours due to two rain breaks — one of them lasted for an hour-and-a-half. He was a relieved man. For a man who was once staring at disability, the momentous occasion gave him reason to celebrate more. He endured pain and grief after a life-altering swimming accident.