The Black Sticks Women will take on Australia in tonight's final of the Four Nations tournament after securing their finals berth with a 3-1 win over the USA at the North Harbour Hockey Stadium last night.
In yesterday's final round robin match, the Black Sticks just needed a draw to make the final and they did that convincingly with the two-goal victory.
Black Sticks coach Mark Hager says it was pleasing to put some goals in the back of the net but he's still frustrated with the attacking conversion rate.
Hager says at this stage in the team's preparations for the London Olympics the focus is on defence and says the team's attack is probably suffering.
The match was all square at 1-all at halftime after the 10th ranked USA slotted in a late goal despite the home side having more chances in the first spell.
New Zealand made the ideal start to the second spell with a Katie Glynn goal after a scramble in the circle in the 43rd minute.
Glynn put the result beyond doubt 15 minutes later with another deft touch in the circle.
Cathryn Finlayson brought up 50 caps for her country last night, while captain Kayla Sharland required stitches to a cut on the knee but is still in contention for tonight's final.
In the earlier match, Australia held off a spirited Indian effort to claim a 1-nil victory.
Tonight's final between the sixth ranked Black Sticks and the seventh ranked Australia is at 6.30pm at North Harbour.
