VANTAGE BLACK STICKS WOMEN LEAD THE SERIES - OCEANIA CUP
The 2025 Oceania Cup got underway in Darwin last night, with both the Vantage Black Sticks Men and Women facing Australia in the first of three matches in the classic trans-Tasman rivalry. Both sides were eager to set the tone early and take an advantage into the weekend’s remaining fixtures.
Men’s Match – A Brave Effort in a Tough Battle
The match started at a high pace and rarely slowed, with Australia striking first in the opening quarter. New Zealand responded well, creating a couple of chances that forced strong saves from the Australian goalkeeper.
The second and third quarters turned into an arm wrestle, with both teams struggling to find a breakthrough. Australia came close twice from penalty corners, but New Zealand’s defence held firm, shutting down key opportunities and keeping the contest alive.
The decisive moment came in the final quarter when Australia doubled their lead with a scrappy goal, despite Dom Dixon’s best efforts.
Although the match ended 2–0 in Australia’s favour, the performance was full of fight and resilience. Having not faced a tier-one nation for over a year, the Vantage Black Sticks Men showed they belong on the world stage with the best teams. With the series now on the line, all eyes turn to game two on Saturday for a must-win clash.
Women’s Match – Shannon Strike Secures Famous Win
The Vantage Black Sticks Women produced a superb performance to take a thrilling 1–0 win over Australia in a high-quality contest.
The first half was a showcase of tight, disciplined hockey, with both teams creating attacking opportunities but finding little joy in the circle thanks to outstanding defensive efforts on both ends.
Australia dominated territory in the third quarter, generating multiple circle entries and penalty corners, but New Zealand’s penalty corner defence, led by goalkeeper Grace O’Hanlon, stood tall to keep the hosts scoreless.
The breakthrough came in the 49th minute when captain Olivia Shannon unleashed a rocket reverse-stick shot from the top of the circle into the bottom corner, sending the Vantage Black Sticks one goal up. In the final 10 minutes, Australia threw everything forward in search of an equaliser, but New Zealand’s defence held strong to claim a famous win.
Grace O’Hanlon was named Player of the Match for her outstanding performance in goal.
The series continues on Saturday with the Women’s match at 4:30pm NZT, followed by the Men at 6:30pm NZT. Both teams will be looking to take another step towards Oceania Cup glory.