New Zealand have suffered back-to-back losses to Argentina as they prepare for the Champions Trophy starting in Mendoza, Argentina this weekend.
The women's Black Sticks, ranked No 4 in the world, were beaten 2-1, then 3-0 today by the team ranked one spot above them.
Coach Mark Hager was left to lament New Zealand's mistakes which cost them dearly.
"We are creating goal scoring opportunities, particularly tonight," Hager said. "We're just not good at taking them."
Captain Anita Punt scored the Black Sticks' only goal in the opening game, from a penalty corner.
In today's game, New Zealand managed 25 circle penetrations to Argentina's 15, and squandered three open nets. Two one-on-ones with the Argentine goalkeeper went begging.
By contrast, Argentina's three goals came from just six shots.
"We have to tighten up a bit because the good teams will punish you," Hager said.
He is hopeful attacker Sophie Cocks will play a part in the friendly against Germany on Thursday night (NZT) to prove her fitness after suffering a blow on a leg against the United States recently. She played a small part in both games against Argentina.
Key defender Liz Thompson also picked up a bang on a leg in yesterday's game.
The Black Sticks' opening cup game is against world No 10 Japan on Sunday morning (NZT).
- David Leggat of the New Zealand Herald
