The New Zealand women's hockey team have been beaten 3-nil by hosts Argentina in the first of six tests in Buenos Aires.
World number three ranked Argentina controlled much of the possession, scoring twice in the first half and adding a third goal in the fourth quarter.
The Black Sticks, ranked fifth in the world, turned in an improved second half performance but weren't able to threaten the goal, earning just one penalty corner in the match.
Midfielders Stephanie Dickins and Tessa Jopp along with goalkeeper Grace O'Hanlon all made their New Zealand debut during the game.
North Harbour's Stephanie Dickins made her debut for the Black Sticks. Photo: Photosport
Assistant coach Sean Dancer said his young side battled early nerves.
"The quality of our basics were 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."
