The New Zealand women’s hockey team made the perfect start to their Olympic Games campaign with a comprehensive 4-1 win over South Korea today.
The New Zealanders were in charge throughout. They led 2-0 after 19 minutes through field goals by Kirsten Pearce and Charlotte Harrison, and when Gemma Flynn converted a penalty corner moments later, the result was as good as decided.
New Zealand went into halftime leading 3-0 and Petrea Webster stretched the margin to 4-0 in the 34th minute.
The Koreans were dogged and were rewarded for their perseverance when Hyuni Kim scored after 55 minutes, but generally New Zealand dominated.
New Zealand had 13 shots at goal to the Koreans’ eight and four penalty corners to the Koreans’ one.
The Black Sticks, who were so close to winning a medal at the 2012 London Olympic Games, were clearly delighted with how their first game had gone, but coach Mark Hager was careful to ensure everyone kept their feet on the ground afterwards.
“It’s the old cliche of one game at a time,” he said. “We can get excited about the win, but now we need to move on quickly.”
New Zealand’s next match is against the strong German team tomorrow.
Rio 2016 Olympic Summer Games Kirsten Pearce Petrea Webster Gemma McCaw Charlotte HarrisonTweet Share
