Black Sticks draw, now face Argentina

WELLINGTON: The Black Sticks battled to a 11 draw with Australia at the Women’s World Cup in London yesterday and now must beat Argentina in a crossover match to make the quarterfinals.

If the world No. 4 New Zealanders beat thirdranked Argentina, they will meet the fifthranked Australians again in knockout play.

Both teams started the match knowing a win would mean topping the pool and direct passage to the last eight.

The Black Sticks struck first, pressuring Australia into mistakes in the 13th minute as they attempted to play the ball out from the back.

Busy New Zealand forward Kelsey Smith forced defensive errors from both Jodie Kenny and Georgina Morgan, took possession and fired in a shot which was saved by Australian goalkeeper Rachael Lynch.

Olivia Merry was quick to pounce and slotted the rebound.

Australia replied three minutes into the second quarter, as Edwina Bone fired in a cross from the right flank for captain Emily Smith, who took two touches to get the ball under control and then calmly finished beneath onrushing goalkeeper Sally Rutherford.

Australia dominated after halftime, retaining quality possession, looking dangerous on the counterattack and successfully starving New Zealand’s big match players Stacey Michelsen and Anita Mclaren of a supply line.

The Black Sticks produced a final strong quarter, holding on to more than 55% possession and unleashing four shots on goal to Australia’s one.

New Zealand coach Mark Hager said the result was gutwrenching, especially after recording 17 shots to Australia’s nine.

‘‘It was a typical Aussie against New Zealand battle — both teams had chances to win . . . but probably just our inability in front of goal has hurt us a bit.’’