A summary of opening round NHL action

The Bayleys Midlands NHL campaign kicked off with matches against North Harbour in Hamilton on Saturday the 18th of August.

In the women's match, North Harbour took the lead early in the game, and a Bayleys Midlands equaliser from Stacey MacDonald resulted in a 1-1 draw at full time, forcing the first penalty shoot out of the tournament.  The shootout was even at 4-4 before North Harbour’s Carli Michelsen was pushed wide by Midlands' Goalkeeper - Sally Rutherford and Shiloh Gloyn knocked in the winner for the home side.

The Bayleys Midlands Men took full points from their opening match - beating North Harbour Men 3-1.  Goal scorers were Cam Hayde, Lincoln Churchill and Ricky Clarke.

On Sunday, the Bayleys Midlands teams travelled to Auckland to take on the Auckland Fury.  Auckland took the lead in the first half, but a the Bayleys Midlands women had stepped up a level from from Saturday's performance and after a classy Stacey MacDonald goal in the second spell they threatened to take the lead. But former Black Stick Honor Carter ended their hopes with four minutes to go as she latched on to a brilliant pass from captain Jan Rowsell to secure the 2-1 victory.

The Bayleys Midlands Men were outclassed by Auckland men as two early goals set up the Auckalnd side for their 4-0 victory.

The 2012 National Hockey League continues from the 25th of August as all teams move to Auckland for tournament week.

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