A late goal has helped the New Zealand under-18 women's hockey side maintain its unbeaten record against Australia Futures.
The Australians were ahead 1-0 at halftime in Canberra yesterday before a tactical decision by Kiwi coach Jason Butcher to replace the goalkeeper with another field player delivered results. With justtwo minutes left on the clock, Jenna Anderson slotted in the equaliser.
After a first test victory to New Zealand, Butcher said the Australians put the Kiwis under a lot of pressure, especially in the first half. A better second half effort from the Kiwis resulted in a penalty corner, where a drag flick from Katelyn Austin hit the post.
New Zealand goalkeeper Georgia Barnett had another strong game making a number of crucial saves.
Meanwhile the New Zealand under-18 men's team went down 6-1 to Australia Futures in the second test in Canberra yesterday.
Coach Bryce Collins said the team would need to improve its defensive structures for today's final test.
The Tiger Turf under-18 teams are part of Hockey New Zealand's new junior high performance programme, known as the Owen G Glenn Future Black Sticks Programme, to help develop the next generation of Black Sticks.
Results: Second tests, Canberra
Tiger Turf under-18 Women Full time: 1-1 Halftime: 0-1 (Australia Futures lead) NZ Goal scorer: Jenna Anderson
Tiger Turf under-18 Men Full time: 1-6 (Australia Futures win)
