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The Vantage Black Sticks have continued their frustrating run after suffering a 3-1 defeat from USA at the Sentinel Homes Hockey World League Final in Auckland.
The hosts once again created a huge number of circle penetrations and scoring opportunities but could only make one count.
New Zealand now await the results of tomorrow’s Pool B matches but face a clash against either Argentina or Germany in the sudden death quarter finals phase.
Experienced defender Samantha Charlton said there was a disappointing feel in the camp after a game they felt they could win.
“We’re extremely disappointed. It was a game we dominated in terms of statistics but we couldn’t come away with a win.
“The format of the tournament is such that we can still come through to win our quarter final and make it through to the semis – it’s something that’s been done plenty of times before.
“Whether it’s Argentina or Germany we know it will be a tough game, but we have the ability to beat them and it’s by no means over from here.”
The USA were first to score from a ninth minute penalty corner with Jill Witmer getting a deflection on the flick to roof the ball into the net.
New Zealand equalised midway through the second quarter when Ella Gunson found a way through the goalkeeper from a penalty corner of their own.
With the score level 1-1 at halftime, USA broke the shackles after being awarded a penalty stroke in the 37th minute following some heavy body contact dished out by the Kiwi defenders.
The momentum continued for USA who opened a 3-1 buffer in the 45th minute with Witmer slipping a reverse shot across the face and into the side of the goal.
The quarter finals draw will be confirmed at the conclusion of pool play tomorrow with Germany facing Argentina at 6pm and England squaring off against China at 8pm.
Event tickets can be purchased along with a full rundown of transport information through www.ticketek.co.nz
VANTAGE BLACK STICKS: 1 (Ella Gunson 22’)
USA: 3 (Taylor West 37’ 45’, Jill Witmer 9’)
Halftime: 1-1