Hockey: Black Sticks downed by Argentina

Kelsey Smth and Liz Thompson in action for the Black Sticks. Photo / Photosport

The Black Sticks Women have been defeated 3-0 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 played a much better second half 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.

Assistant coach Sean Dancer said his young side battled through some early nerves but it wasn't enough to overcome the fast and attacking home side.

"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."