The New Zealand Women's hockey team held off a determined Indian team to collect a 2-1 victory in their opening match of the Four Nations in Auckland last night.
Against the 13th ranked Indians, the sixth ranked Black Sticks should have scored a comfortable victory but too many basic mistakes that turned over possession allowed the visitors into the match.
The Black Sticks Women's coach Mark Hager felt it was a poor performance but typical of the team's efforts in the first match of tournaments, which is something he plans to address.
Anita Punt and Katie Glynn scored for New Zealand, and a brilliant save from goalkeeper Bianca Russell was required with just over five minutes left to ensure the Kiwis held on to the 2-1 victory.
The Four Nations tournament continues with the Black Sticks facing trans-Tasman rivals Australia tonight at 6.30pm.
