The Black Sticks women fought hard before slipping to a 3-2 loss to world No 2 Argentina at the Changzhou Invitational Tournament in China yesterday.
Argentina controlled much of the possession and territory early, but the Black Sticks created some of the best chances in the opening quarter.
The first major opportunity came from a penalty stroke after an infringement in the circle. Riana Pho stepped up, only to be denied by a strong save from the Argentine goalkeeper.
Moments later, Britt Wang displayed excellent skill to win a penalty corner, which led to another stroke after a clever variation forced a foot from a defender.
Olivia Shannon made no mistake this time, calmly converting to give the Black Sticks a 1-0 lead at the end of the first quarter.
The second quarter remained competitive, with both sides creating chances.
Argentina eventually found a way back into the game, converting a penalty corner with a flick that slipped through the legs of New Zealand goalkeeper Grace O’Hanlon, and it was 1-1 at halftime.
Argentina displayed their class in the third quarter, dominating territory and earning 13 circle penetrations while restricting the Black Sticks to none.
Despite the pressure, the defence stood strong. Julia Gluyas made several crucial saves, while Anna Crowley was outstanding on the post, batting away direct flicks to keep Argentina from extending their lead.
The resilience ensured the game remained locked at 1-1 heading into the final quarter.
Argentina struck early in the fourth, scoring two quick goals to take a 3-1 lead and put the Black Sticks under pressure.
With three minutes remaining, New Zealand withdrew their goalkeeper to gain an extra outfield player, and the move paid off.
A penalty corner was awarded, and a well-executed variation led to Emma Findlay scoring.
The Black Sticks pushed hard in the final moments to find an equaliser and force a shootout, but Argentina held firm to secure the win.
Despite the result, it was an impressive performance against one of the world’s best. The Black Sticks matched Argentina physically, competed throughout and showed their ability to challenge top-tier opposition.
The Black Sticks had opened the tournament with a shootout victory over hosts China following a 2–2 draw in regulation time.
Olivia Shannon and Hannah Cotter scored the New Zealand goals in regulation, before Shannon, Cotter, Emma Findlay and Mezzy Surridge all converted their attempts in the shootout and goalkeeper O’Hanlon produced two massive saves. — Allied Media
