Hockey: Black Sticks keep Cup hopes alive

The New Zealand women's hockey team recorded a vital 5-0 win over Italy in today's (NZ time) World Cup qualifying tournament in Rome.

The Black Sticks posted just their second win in five matches, with the victory leaving them in third place in pool B after round-robin play.

After failing to secure a semifinal spot and automatic entry to the World Cup in September, New Zealand have to win their next two crossover matches to clinch the fifth qualifying spot for finals in Madrid.

New Zealand will meet France in their first crossover match on Friday (NZ time).

In today's match, New Zealand were rarely troubled as Di Weavers opened the scoring in the 19th minute.

Clarissa Eshuis' strike just before halftime gave the Black Sticks a comfortable lead at the break and the sixth-ranked nation continued their dominance when Krystal Forgesson converted a penalty corner.

The match was sealed against the hosts, ranked 20th, with two goals within two minutes to Elizabeth Ryan and Stacey Carr.

- NZPA