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Mark Kolbe/Getty Images
Olivia Shannon (file pic) scored the Black Sticks’ only goal in regulation against China as they lost in a shootout.
At National Hockey Stadium, Wellington: China 1 (Xu Yanan FG 32’) Black Sticks 1 (Olivia Shannon FG 32’) 1Q: 0-0, HT: 0-0, 3Q: 1-1, FT: 1-1. China won shootout 2-1.
The Black Sticks women have experienced more shootout pain, losing that way for the fourth consecutive time against China in Wellington on Sunday.
They earned another point in their Pro League campaign with a 1-1 regulation draw, but weren’t able to secure the bonus point in the shootout.
It was a testy first half for the Black Sticks, who struggled to stay on the ball with China. The Chinese headed into the game ready after a series against Australia and Germany, pressing well in midfield and cutting the passing lanes.
China created a number of strong opportunities, but were stifled by some resilient Kiwi defence and strong goalkeeping.
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Grace O’Hanlon and Brooke Roberts both had stints in goal in the first half and produced spectacular saves to keep China out.
The second half started a little brighter for the Black Sticks as they made some positive runs into their attacking third, resulting in Olivia Shannon unleashing a powerful shot which put the hosts 1-0 up.
It was a short-lived lead with China striking back straight from the restart through Xu Yanan, who scored with a powerful shot that no-one had a chance of stopping.
China continued to dominate the third quarter peppering the New Zealand goal, but continued to be denied by the Black Sticks’ penalty corner defence.
The Kiwis were a lot livelier in the final quarter, dominating the ball and finally winning their first penalty corner.
They managed to earn another six, but were unable to convert, leaving the scores tied 1-1 at the end of regulation.
More shootout heartbreak was to follow for New Zealand, who came away on the losing side for the fourth consecutive time, going back to the Commonwealth Games.
The Black Sticks women play against the United States in their next game in Wellington on Saturday before facing China again next Sunday.
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