Womens hockey: Loss for Black Sticks

The New Zealand women's hockey team is reeling from a third straight loss at the Champions Trophy in Nottingham.

The Black Sticks have wilted in the second half, crashing 4-nil at the hands of Argentina.

Some outstanding saves from goalkeeper Bianca Russell kept Argentina scoreless in the first half, but the South Americans netted three field goals and one from a penalty corner in the second spell.

Coach Mark Hager says it was another substandard performance.

"Probably more carelessness up front in the attacking third where we get up there and then we just turn the ball over too easy and teams are coming back at us and counter attacking."

Hager says his side is just patchy with how they are playing at the moment.

After playing the top three sides in the world, New Zealand next face fourth ranked Germany tomorrow night.

- NEWSTALK ZB