The Black Sticks women earned another point in their Pro League campaign with a 1-1 regulation draw against China in Wellington, however, they weren’t able to secure the bonus point in the shoot-out.
Olivia Shannon.
Photo: © Photosport Ltd 2019 www.photosport.nz
It was a testy first half for the Black Sticks who struggled to stay on the ball with China, coming in game ready after a series against Australia and Germany, pressing well in midfield and cutting the passing lanes.
China created a number of strong opportunities but were stifled by some resilient defence and strong goalkeeping.
Grace O’Hanlon and Brooke Roberts both had stints in goal in the first half and both produced spectacular saves to keep China out.
The second half started a little brighter for the Black Sticks as they made some positive runs into their attacking third resulting in Olivia Shannon unleashing a powerful shot which put the hosts 1-0 up.
It was a short-lived lead with China striking back straight from the restart through Xu Yanan who scored with a powerful shot that no one had a chance of stopping.
China continued to dominate the third quarter peppering the New Zealand goal but continued to be denied by the famous Black Sticks penalty corner defence.
The Black Sticks were a lot livelier in the final quarter, dominating the ball and finally winning their first penalty corner. They managed to earn another six but were unable to convert, leaving the scores tied 1-1 at the end of regulation.
More shoot-out heartbreak was to follow for New Zealand who came away on the losing side for the 4th consecutive time, going back to the Commonwealth Games.
The Black Sticks next play on February 25 against the USA.
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