Black Sticks too good for India

IN FORM: Tauranga's Amy Robinson in action against India in Hamilton. PHOTO: photosport

The Vantage Black Sticks Women have continued their dominance over India with a 3-0 win in the fourth test at the Gallagher Hockey Centre in Hamilton.

New Zealand looked untroubled from start to finish with striker Rachel McCann scoring a double while Tessa Jopp added her side's third goal.

The result give the Black Sticks a 4-0 series lead with the fifth and final test to be played at the same location today (Saturday).

Tauranga's four Black Sticks in Rose Keddell, Sam Charlton, Frances Davies and Amy Robinson were involved.

Head coach for the series Sean Dancer said while there were some areas to tidy up, it was pleasing to come away with another win.

"I thought our structure was a lot better today, I was pleased with how we moved and held the ball," he said.

"India played well in defence and certainly improved in the second half, but we were still able to score some really good goals.

"Going into the final test we aren't about to take our foot off the gas. Our style is to be aggressive and we will keep pushing to get better."

The Kiwis made their early pressure count in the 14th minute with Amy Robinson making a cutting baseline run before linking up with Rachel McCann to slot into goal.

Just three minutes later the Black Sticks were on the board again when Tess Jopp got the final touch on Ella Gunson's hard shot at goal from a penalty corner.

McCann scored her second goal of the match close to halftime following a fantastic length of the turf team counter attack.

Despite chances at both ends of the field, neither side troubled the scorers in the second half.

New Zealand's top umpire Kelly Hudson from Tauranga celebrated officiating her 100th international test during the match.