The Black Sticks beat South Africa overnight 2 - 1 in a sensational result which lifts the side back into top six elite.
With the win, New Zealand not only secured the BDO Champions Challenge I title and cup, but also won a place in the prestigious Champions Trophy tournament, which will be held in July 2010 in Nottingham in England. Bringing together the six best teams in the world, this tournament will give the Black Sticks the best possible preparation for their World Cup campaign three months later.
New Zealand last competed in a Champions Trophy in 2006.
Team Manager Debbie Balme said from Cape Town the team went out there from the beginning wanting to win. "It's an awesome result and we deserved it," she said.
After a balanced start, during which South Africa had a number of good opportunities, New Zealand started to slowly pick up momentum, controlling the ball well and steadily increasing their share of ball possession.
Anita Punt scored from a crowded circle for the Black Sticks' first goal in the 17th minute. Four minutes before half time Clarissa Eshuis converted a now trademark penalty corner drag flick conversion for a 2 - 0 lead.
South Africa won a penalty corner, and this time, Kate Woods in the 64th minute,converted with a low flick, setting her team off on a high intensity campaign to put away the elusive equalizer that would keep their hopes of victory alive. Spurred on by the enthusiastic supporters in a well filled stadium, the girls in green and gold created a string of chances but could not finish.
South Africa - New Zealand 1:2 (0:2)
17' NZL - Anita PUNT (FG)
31' NZL - Clarissa ESHUIS (PC)
64' RSA - Kate WOODS (PC)
The Black Sticks Women are through to the final of the Champions Challenge in Cape Town and will meet South Africa today at 3pm (3am NZ time).
The winner of the tournament gains promotion to the Champions Trophy, contested by the top six teams in the world.
New Zealand progress to the final despite a 1 - 0 loss to Japan overnight. The Japanese scored through a Kana Nagayama field goal with just two minutes on the clock, but would have needed to win by three goals to prevent New Zealand's progress to the final.
For the large part of the match, New Zealand had the more controlled game and a more cohesive performance, but the Japanese defence stood strong.
Emily Naylor continued her strong tournament and Bianca Russell performed well in goa making some excellent savesl. New Zealand was awarded three penalty corners in the second half, but could not convert. Clarissa Eshuis had to leave the field in first half to receive stitches to her head. She was able to return to the game in the second half. Kayla Sharland also suffered a hamstring injury late in the game and was to be reviewed today.
