Black Sticks Women claim series win over Argentina

The Black Sticks Women have powered back from two goals down to draw the sixth test 2-2, and claim an overall series win over hosts Argentina in Mar del Plata

World number two ranked Argentina made a strong start scoring twice in the opening quarter, and held their advantage on the scoreboard for most of the game.



But with less than four minutes to play the Kiwis pulled one back through Kirsten Pearce before Kayla Whitelock scored a brilliant goal in the final minute to equalise.



The six test series concludes with two wins, two losses and two draws with the Black Sticks clinching the Mar del Plata Sport Cup thanks to a better goal differential.



Head coach Mark Hager said his side showed character in continuing to fight from two goals down to eventually level the score.



“We made a poor start to the game and were a bit apprehensive, but the way we fought back was pleasing,” he said.



“This trip has been a good adventure for us against a very good opponent and to be able to come away with a series win is a real positive.

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"We have identified some strengths and weaknesses from these six games. We came here with some questions and feel like those have been answered.”



The Black Sticks now head home to New Zealand to prepare for two tests against Canada over Easter weekend in the build-up to the Hawke’s Bay Cup from 2-10 April.

BLACK STICKS 2: (Kirsten Pearce, Kayla Whitelock)
ARGENTINA 2: (Noel Barrionuevo, Julieta Jankunas)
Halftime: Argentina 2-0