BLACK STICKS WOMEN CONCEDE LATE GOAL IN DRAW WITH JAPAN

The Vantage Black Sticks Women coughed up a 1-0 lead at the National Hockey Centre in Auckland on Saturday night, conceding a late goal to Japan, sharing the spoils in the first of a two match series.

Japan started off the more dominant of the two sides controlling territory and possession for the opening few minutes - and earning a number of penalty corners.

The Japanese were unable to capitalise on their early momentum with the Kiwis recovering well from their slow start.

For most of the first half it was advantage New Zealand with a number of entries into the Japanese defensive circle.

The Black Sticks broke the deadlock late in the first quarter when Olivia Shannon found herself in the right place at the right time to tap in a goal from a penalty corner.

Despite a number of good opportunities New Zealand were frustrated by some strong last defence and some poor finishing.

Japan found their footing in the final quarter of the game and pressed the Kiwis high up the field. They were rewarded for their persistence when they found a leveller through Shiho Kobayakawa who deflected in a shot from a baseline pass with 5 minutes to play.

The sides will face off again tomorrow night in Auckland at 4pm.