5 Apr 2017

Black Sticks enhance chances of making final

5:15 am on 5 April 2017

The New Zealand women's hockey team has beaten Japan 1-nil to move up to second after four rounds of the Hawke's Bay Festival of Hockey.

Black Sticks striker Kirsten Pearce

Black Sticks striker Kirsten Pearce Photo: PHOTOSPORT

After 60 minutes of hockey played in steady rain, the Black Sticks got the result they needed thanks to a first half goal from Kirsten Pearce.

The Black Sticks came into the match with a win and a draw from their opening three matches but more importantly, were looking for redemption after being beaten 2-1 by Japan in the opening match of the tournament.

The first half was played in a predictable style by both teams; the hosts pressing forward on attack while Japan fell back in defence and were quick to stifle any opportunities that were created.

The Black Sticks broke the deadlock in the 20th minute from a penalty corner after Japan goalkeeper Megumi Kageyama made the initial save but Pearce flicked the rebound into the net.

The second half belonged to the Kiwis who pushed forward through the midfield and created more opportunities for the strikers.

At the end of four rounds Australia tops the table with eight points, the Black Sticks have climbed to second with seven, the early leaders Japan are on six and the USA has just one.

The Black Sticks next game is against Australia tomorrow.

The top two teams after two rounds of round-robin meet in the final at the weekend.