The New Zealand women's hockey team have been beaten 4-0 by the Netherlands in the opening match of the World League Final in Auckland.
Black Sticks player Kirsten Pearce. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The world number one ranked Dutch side showed their class and were clinical inside the attacking circle scoring two goals in each half to secure top spot in Pool A.
Netherlands opened the scoring in the 11th minute with Kelly Jonker scoring an impressive field goal before her side doubled their lead four minutes from a crashing Maartje Krekelaar reverse shot.
The Black Sticks battled throughout the remainder of the half and created several very close chances but weren't able to convert them into goals.
Midway through the third quarter Netherlands opened a three goal buffer from a Frederique Matla strike before Jonker netted her second of the match in the 48th minute.
New Zealand's next match is against South Korea tonight.
-RNZ
