Hockey: NZ fall to double Argentina defeat

Rose Keddell and the Black Sticks were outclassed. Photo / Photosport

Argentina 3
Black Sticks Women 0

Argentina 2
Blacks Sticks Men 1

Both the men and women's Black Sticks sides took backwards steps in the Pro League following defeats to their Argentinian counterparts at North Harbour Hockey Stadium yesterday.

The women's Black Sticks failed to back up an impressive performance over the United States on Friday, outmatched by the world's fourth best team. The Sticks created early chances before an experienced Argentina side took control. Agustina Albertarrio opened the scoring in the 14th minute for the visitors with a rocket past Grace O'Hanlon.

Midway through the second quarter, Argentina made a quick break down the field before Micaela Retegui made it 2-0. New Zealand had a chance to peg one back after halftime from a penalty corner which drew a save from the Argentina goalkeeper before the visitors closed out the game when Rosario Luchetti made it 3-0 in the 47th minute.

New Zealand's third defeat from seven games leaves them sitting fifth in the nine-team Pro League, still a chance a making a run in the second half of the competition.

However, it doesn't look as hopeful for their male counterparts.

With the home games part of the schedule nearing an end, the men's side have failed to pick up a victory in their opening six games with the 2-1 defeat yesterday coming after a draw and shootout defeat against Spain on Friday. Seven of their final eight games are on the road and their chances of moving off the bottom of the table looking slim.

Argentina led 2-0 with goals in the first and third quarters before Kane Russell struck New Zealand's only goal in the final quarter.

With one minute remaining, the Black Sticks referred a much-needed penalty corner but it was turned down by the video umpire as Argentina held on for the victory which moved the South Americans to fourth on the Pro League table.