Hockey: Japan defeat Black Sticks after strong first half

A strong first-half performance was enough to secure Japan the second match of the five-test women's international hockey series against New Zealand in Christchurch today.

Japan won 4-1 after leading by the same margin at halftime to lead the series 2-0 after winning the first match 3-2 two days ago.

Japan's first two goals came from accurate, long passes up the middle which exposed big holes in New Zealand's defence.

The passes were simply put away by Misaki Ozawa in the 10th minute and Kaori Chiba in the 16th minute.

Niniwa Roberts responded for the hosts to make it 1-2 in the 20th minute before Yuko Kitano added Japan's third from the field in the 24th minute and Chiba scored her second with a deft deflection four minutes before halftime.

Emily Naylor was one of New Zealand's hardest working players at centre half, but the side missed the leadership of injured captain Suzie Muirhead, who usually plays the centre midfield role.

Lizzy Igasan was under a lot of pressure in defence, which was relieved somewhat when experienced defender Di Weavers took the field alongside her.

Up front, attackers Jaimee Provan and Krystal Forgesson made some promising excursions, but generally the New Zealand attack failed to open up Japan's defence.

The third test is tomorrow in Christchurch.

The New Zealand squad for the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne next month are to be named on Monday.

Japan 4 (Kaori Chiba 2, Misaki Ozawa, Yuko Kitano)
New Zealand 1 (Niniwa Roberts).
Halftime: 4-1.

Japan lead five-match series 2-0.

- NZPA