LIZ THOMPSON SCORES A 100-METRE GOAL IN JIANGSU CLASH

The Vantage Black Sticks produced a strong 4–2 win over Jiangsu in their third match of the Changzhou Invitational Tournament, delivering an excellent first-half performance before holding on under second-half pressure.

The Vantage Black Sticks started the game at pace, controlling possession and creating consistent attacking opportunities. Their dominance paid off in the opening quarter, with Olivia Shannon and Mezzy Surridge both finishing well-worked field goals to give their side a 2–0 lead. Surridge’s goal was a standout, lifting a reverse-stick finish over the goalkeeper.

Momentum continued into the second quarter, with Riana Pho stepping up to fire a powerful penalty corner flick into the back of the net. The highlight of the match came soon after in a remarkable full-field counterattack. Liz Thompson made a crucial interception deep inside the defensive circle to deny Jiangsu, sparking a 100-metre transition. Hannah Cotter carried the ball forward, eliminating multiple defenders before finding Olivia Shannon, who delivered a precise pass across goal. Thompson, who started the move, arrived at the back post to finish. An outstanding end-to-end team effort and a rare moment for a defender to feature on the scoresheet. The Vantage Black Sticks went into halftime with a commanding 4–0 lead.

Jiangsu responded strongly in the third quarter, generating multiple penalty corner opportunities and shifting momentum. Anna Crowley was again impressive on the post, making a key save to deny a direct flick, but Jiangsu eventually converted from a penalty corner to reduce the deficit to 4–1. The Vantage Black Sticks had chances of their own but were unable to extend the lead.

The final quarter followed a similar pattern, with Jiangsu continuing to press and earning further opportunities. They added a second goal from a penalty corner, but the Vantage Black Sticks defence held firm to close out the match and secure a 4–2 victory.

It was a performance built on an outstanding first half and resilient defending late, giving the Vantage Black Sticks a valuable win heading into their next match.

Attention now turns to a highly anticipated rematch against Argentina, with the game set for 9:00pm NZT and available to watch live on Hockey TV.

New Zealand Goal Scorers:

11’ Olivia Shannon – Field Goal

13’ Mezzy Surridge – Field Goal

17’ Riana Pho – Penalty Corner Goal

25’ Liz Thompson – Field Goal