Hockey: Women go for perfect tour result

A strong defensive effort has laid the foundation for the New Zealand women's four-from-four record against the United States.

Coach Ian Rutledge says while he is looking to complete the clean sweep of the five-match series in Wellington this afternoon, the way the Black Sticks play is more of a priority than the result.

"I'm very happy with what we have achieved so far," Rutledge said yesterday after the team arrived from Levin.

The team won the fourth test 3-1 on Thursday night, conceding their only goal - a penalty stroke - in 280 minutes of hockey against the visitors.

"We performed reasonably well in all matches. We're keen to make sure we finish with another strong game," Rutledge said.

"It has been interesting playing the same team so many times as opposed to a tournament where you are playing different sides.

"Both teams have been making adjustments from game to game. It has highlighted weaknesses in both teams."

However, there has not been too much to concern Rutledge.

His defence has only given up five penalty corners - none of which have been converted - and that stroke in Levin.

"We had possibly the youngest defence to play for New Zealand in that fourth test, with an average age of just 19." Lizzy Igasan, at 22, was the oldest.

The biggest challenge now facing Rutledge will be naming 18 players for the Champions Challenge tournament in the United States in July.

Unlikely to go outside the 19 players he has had for this series, Rutledge will have to leave one at home.

"It is going to be a big call and one we will make at the end of the month," he said.

The players will go home for a week after the series against the US is over.

"They will have fitness testing after that and then have six weeks at the high performance centres and continue to play club hockey before we go to Virgina Beach on July 2.

The winner of that six-team tournament will qualify for the Champions Trophy.

While not naming his starting XI for today's game at the National Hockey Stadium, Rutledge said he will put out his best side.

"We are looking forward to playing back here. The two matches played in pouring rain in Napier were a real test.

"The slower conditions suited the Americans. It was better in Levin and hopefully we will get the conditions we want this time to play the open, attacking style of hockey we favour."

The match is being televised live by TV One at 2pm.