The United States women's hockey team has beaten New Zealand 2-1 in the third Test in Palmerston North.
The six-Test series is now level.
The Americans gained an early lead, doubled their score in the second quarter with Anita Punt the only goalscorer for the Black Sticks in the second half.
Anita Punt. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Coach Mark Hager wasn't happy, saying by half-time they had 14 scoring opportunities and hadn't taken any of them.
Hager says there just wasn't enough venom from his forwards.
New Zealand hockey player Anita Punt. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
He says they always knew it was going to be a tough series, they've had nine changes since their Commonwealth Games team, whereas the USA have had only three from the World Cup.
Hager says although he's disheartened with his attacking circle area he's very pleased with their defence.
Punt scored a penalty corner conversion in the second half to get the home side on the board, and despite the Black Sticks scrambling for an equaliser it was not to be.
The fourth Test is in Palmerston North on Thursday with the last two Tests in Carterton at the weekend.
