The New Zealand women's hockey team scored close to the final whistle to secure a 1-1 draw with trans-Tasman rivals Australia at the Hawke's Bay Festival of Hockey.
Black Sticks Kirsten Pearce in action against Australia 2017. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Australia came out of the blocks strongly and opened the scoring in the 11th minute through a Laura Barden goal.
The Hockeyroos controlled play in the first half to go into the break with a one goal lead, but the Black Sticks held more possession and territory in the second spell.
It took until the 58th minute for the Black Sticks to equalise when a great run through the middle of the Australian defence by Olivia Merry led to a deflection in front of goal which Sam Harrison put into the net.
Black Sticks head coach Mark Hager said the performance from his side was better following Friday's loss to Japan.
"We have some new players in the squad and they are still learning to play at international level. Our players need to show more aggression and develop more belief in their ability."
After two rounds Japan tops the table with two wins, Australia are second with two draws and New Zealand and the USA have one draw each.
The New Zealanders play the USA on Monday night.
