Argentina too good for NZ

The Black Sticks women have been defeated 3-0 by Argentina in the first of six tests in Buenos Aires.

Argentina controlled much of the possession, scoring twice in the first half and adding a third goal in the fourth quarter.

The Black Sticks played a much better second half but were not able to threaten the goal, earning just one penalty corner in the match.

Midfielders Stephanie Dickins and Tessa Jopp, of Maniototo, along with goalkeeper Grace O’Hanlon, all made their New Zealand debuts during the game.

Assistant coach Sean Dancer said his young side battled through some early nerves but it was not enough to overcome the fast and attacking home side.

"The quality of our basics was not good enough. Argentina are a top-tier team and we need to execute better under pressure," he said.

"At stages, our structure was compromised and that can happen with a new group like this.

"We will address those key areas and look forward to the challenge of game two tomorrow."

The Black Sticks are back in action in game two at 10am today.

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