Hockey: Women pin NHL hopes on Gunson

Ella Gunson

The Northland Women's hockey team have their fingers crossed for the return of Black Stick Ella Gunson after missing her presence during their 2-1 loss to North Harbour in the opening round of the National Hockey League.

On the mend after suffering a hamstring injury during the premier hockey season, Gunson's silky skills were sorely missed for the North Harbour fixture.

However, Northland Women's coach Angeline Waetford said there is a chance she could return for the side's next match against Auckland on Sunday.

"She's been given fitness tests from the Black Sticks so, hopefully, she can be back this weekend," Waetford said. "We missed her, she's key in our midfield."

With a dominant performance from Black Sticks Stacey Michelsen and Brooke Neal, a win was always within reach for Northland.

Their sole goal came from a converted penalty corner by Old Girls' Jess Macalister but the equaliser never eventuated despite some close attempts.

In the opening round of the men's season, Northland lost 6-3 to a well-drilled North Harbour outfit.

Down 2-0 at halftime, coach Dave Adams said his side managed to "rattle" North Harbour in the second stanza but an onslaught of goals increased the deficit beyond reach.

"We scored first in the second half but then struggled to hold them back," Adams said.

Round 2 will be played on Sunday before all teams converge on the Whangarei Hockey Centre for finals week from September 12-20.