Black Sticks Women win United States test series

The Black Sticks Women have won the series against the United States, thanks to a 4-0 win in their third of five test matches at the Olympic Training Centre in Chula Vista, San Diego. Two goals from Gemma Flynn and one each from birthday girl Krystal Forgesson and Auckland’s Katie Glynn sealed the victory.

“It was a strong performance. We were much more structured and disciplined, especially in the first half. It was one of the hottest days on record – it was very trying conditions - so both teams wilted a bit in the second half, but overall a great team performance,” says Black Sticks Women’s coach Mark Hager.

“The United States is a great side to play against - they are continuing to press very hard and they put a lot of pressure on our defence. They have shown up our weaknesses and this has helped us identify what areas need to be worked on moving forward,” says Hager.

The Black Sticks were awarded two penalty corners early on. Although unable to convert, there was a breakdown at the second penalty corner which allowed the Black Sticks to feed the ball back into the circle and Gemma Flynn was perfectly positioned to tap it in.

In the 19th minute, Charlotte Harrison crossed the ball into the circle and Katie Glynn scored her third goal of the series.

The Black Sticks continued the attacking pressure and ten minutes later it paid off when Cathryn Finlayson passed the ball into the circle, the United States mistrapped it, and Forgesson found the back of the net.

The United States was awarded their first penalty corner of the game in the 33rd minute, but were unable to convert and it was 3-0 when the teams left the field at half time.

In the 43rd minute, Finlayson made a break and the ball was passed into the circle, with Katie Glynn taking a shot on goal which was rebounded out, picked up by Finlayson, and tipped in by Flynn.

The Black Sticks were awarded two more penalty corners in the half but were unable to convert, with a shot from Glynn going just wide of the net. The teams have one days rest and will play their next match on Saturday 10 September at 9am NZ time (Friday 9 September at 2pm US time).

Their final game is Monday 12th September at 9am NZ time and will be broadcast live on www.usafieldhockey.com

Full time: 4-0 (NZ win)
Half time: 3-0 (NZ lead)
Goal scorers: Gemma Flynn (2), Krystal Forgesson (1), Katie Glynn (1)

Hockey New Zealand Media release