BLACK STICKS WOMEN SECURE CRUCIAL THREE POINTS

The first step towards Paris was taken by the Vantage Black Sticks Women overnight as they beat Italy 3-0 in their opening match of the Olympic Qualifiers in Ranchi, India.

New Zealand took control from the outset, displaying a strong offensive presence within the first 30 seconds. Olivia Shannon's attempt after a penetrating run through the centre was deftly saved by Lucia Caruso.

Throughout the first quarter, New Zealand dominated possession, efficiently working the ball around the pitch and entering the attacking circle multiple times. 

The early offensive efforts resulted in two penalty corners within minutes of each other with the first being well saved by Caruso. In the second corner Frances Davies managed to capitalise on a rebound, providing her team with a 1-0 lead.

The second quarter continued in a similar fashion, with New Zealand maintaining control but struggling to convert dominance into scoring opportunities and, when having shots on goal, well shut-out by Caruso.

The third quarter also proved uneventful, with both teams struggling to create significant opportunities.

The final quarter saw a better performance from the Black Sticks, with clinical passing, better tackling, and early shots testing Caruso - who had until this point kept Italy in the game.

Italy didn’t help themselves with rough tackles and dissent, with two players receiving yellow cards (5 minutes) in quick succession.

Capitalising on the numerical advantage, New Zealand earned a penalty corner, and Frances Davies secured her second goal of the game to double the lead.

Shortly after, Steph Dickins' drag flick from another penalty corner found the back of the net, sealing the victory for New Zealand.

While it wasn’t the most clinical performance from the Black Sticks, they will take heart from their defence, limiting Italy to 2 shots on goal - while having 15 of their own. 

The Kiwis next face India at 3am Monday January 15 NZT - with the game live and on-demand on TVNZ+.