VANTAGE BLACK STICKS SECURE A SPOT ON THE GOLD MEDAL FINAL

The Vantage Black Sticks faced Japan in their third match of the Summer of Hockey, a virtual semi-final with both teams fighting for a place in the gold medal match against the United States. With the Vantage Black Sticks holding the advantage on goal difference, a win or a draw would be enough to secure qualification but conditions made nothing easy. Dunedin delivered some of its toughest weather, with sideways rain, strong winds, and cold temperatures creating a gritty contest.

As expected, the match was a physical grind from the opening whistle, with both teams battling hard to gain early momentum. The first half was evenly contested, but the Vantage Black Sticks created the better scoring chances. Hannah Cotter was heavily involved, producing two powerful reverse-stick shots that were both brilliantly saved by the Japanese goalkeeper. Rebecca Baker also came close, narrowly lifting her effort over the crossbar. Despite the pressure, the match remained scoreless at halftime.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with both teams generating opportunities but struggling to convert in difficult conditions. The Vantage Black Sticks continued to apply pressure, finishing the match with almost double the number of goal-scoring opportunities and earning seven penalty corners compared to Japan’s three.

The breakthrough finally came from the final penalty corner of the game. A well-worked variation saw the ball played back to the injector, then swept across the face of goal where Hannah Gravenall was perfectly positioned to tap it home. The goal gave the Vantage Black Sticks a crucial 1–0 lead and valuable breathing room, knowing even a late equaliser would still see them through.

The defence held firm in the closing minutes, securing the win and confirming the Vantage Black Sticks’ place in the gold medal match.

Attention now turns to the final, where the Vantage Black Sticks will take on the United States at 4:00pm tomorrow in Dunedin. Fans are encouraged to get down and support in person or tune in live on hockeynz.tv.

New Zealand Goal Scorers:

53’ Hannah Gravenall – Penalty Corner Goal