The New Zealand Women's hockey team have lost 1-0 to Japan in Auckland.
A disappointed Natasha Fitzsimons after losing to Japan, 2015. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The Black Sticks made one change from Saturday's 3-2 victory over South Korea with Rosie Keddell coming in for Kirsten Pearce.
The breakthrough came for Japan early in the third quarter when a searching long ball from the back found Mie Nakashima who pushed a square ball in to Akiko Kato to give the Japanese the lead.
Late pressure from the Black Sticks proved to no avail, with the Japanese holding on for the victory and a real confidence boost heading into the Hawke's Bay Cup in Hastings.
Black Sticks player Michaela Curtis Photo: Photosport
Coach Mark Hager was understandably disappointed in the result but complimented Japan on their play.
"Full credit to Japan they were the better team and wanted it more. Some of our basic skills let us down today," he said.
The Black Sticks now head south to Gisborne for two Tests against Argentina on Tuesday and Wednesday.
