The Black Sticks Women have been beaten by Ireland in their second pool match at the FIH Hockey Nations Cup in Santiago, Chile.
Ireland started aggressively testing the New Zealand defence early and continuing throughout the match.
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Both sides displayed some tidy hockey in the first half, but clear scoring opportunities were limited until the final minutes before halftime, when a bobbling ball slipped through New Zealand defence, allowing Ireland to capitalise with a simple trap and one-touch finish to take a one-goal lead into the second half which remained the final score.
The third quarter saw New Zealand begin to create more opportunities as they tried to build momentum. Captain Olivia Shannon delivered a pinpoint ball into the circle, leading to a one-on-one chance with the Irish goalkeeper that couldn’t quite be converted.
Minutes later, the Black Sticks earned their first penalty corner of the game, looking to replicate their precision from the opening match, but were unable to capitalise.
Ireland continued to apply pressure in the final quarter, looking dangerous with a number of circle entries but unable to extend their 1-0 lead.
The Black Sticks focus now shifts to Friday's must-win game against Scotland at 7am NZT.