Hockey: Northlanders lift NZ to test success

Stacey Michelsen scored the opening goal for the Black Sticks in the fourth test against Argentina. Photo / Getty Images

Northland's Black Sticks Women players shone as the side recorded back-to-back wins over hosts Argentina with a 4-1 result in the fourth test at Mar del Plata.

Opening the scoring, Stacey Michelsen drew first blood, while fellow Northlander Brooke Neal got the third goal to further stretch New Zealand's lead.

The Black Sticks were in control against the world number two side from the opening whistle and, after leading 1-0 at halftime, added a further three goals in the second half to seal the result.

Michelsen scored the opening goal in the first quarter, and alongside Kayla Whitelock, was impressive playing in a key attacking role.

Neal scored from a penalty corner early in the third quarter before Petrea Webster and Gemma Flynn added to the goal tally for the Kiwis.

Head coach Mark Hager said it was an impressive result for his side, who had gained in confidence and momentum throughout the series.

"Argentina were a bit flat today, but full credit to our girls; we created a lot of opportunities and were able to put four of them away," he said.

"The first half was fairly even, and they put together a good period where we were under pressure but our defence I thought was very good and we controlled the second half.

"The result is pleasing for the group and it really highlights the work we are doing around building consistency. It's a pretty impressive effort to beat Argentina twice in a row, especially at home."

The Black Sticks now lead the six-test series with two wins, one loss and a draw with two games still to play.

Game five is at 11am this morning (NZT).

The Argentina series serves as an important part of the team's build-up to the Hawke's Bay Cup in April, the FIH Champions Trophy in June, and the Olympic Games in Rio de Janiero in August.

Black Sticks 4 (Stacey Michelsen, Brooke Neal, Petrea Webster, Gemma Flynn) Argentina 1 (Delfina Merino) Halftime: Black Sticks 1-0.