KEY POINTS:
The best the Black Sticks can hope for now is a drawn series after the Hockeyroos beat them by a single goal in Christchurch yesterday.
Australia lead the four-match series 2-1, with the final test to be played at the same venue today.
Australia clearly dominated the match but failed to convert their chances, including at least seven penalty corners.
New Zealand won the first test 1-0 and Australia the second 3-0.
Australia dominated possession in the first half, allowing the Black Sticks only one promising excursion into attacking circle and that did not come until the dying seconds of the half.
The Hockeyroos forced three penalty corners in the first half and put enormous pressure on the New Zealand midfield, forcing the Black Sticks into errors and mis-traps.
Australia's goal came in the 31st minute when Renee Trost moved into space on the right hand side and picked up a beautiful pass to score.
The Black Sticks began the second half with more intensity and enjoyed more possession.
A torrid midfield battle led to the sending off of experienced Hockeyroo Melanie Twitt midway through the half, as the Black Sticks upped the pressure.
Emily Naylor played well in the centre midfield as did defender Kate Mahon. Beth Jurgeleit also made some good saves in goal.
A final flurry in the last five minutes had the large crowd on their feet, but to no avail.
Australia 1 (R. Trost 31') NZ 0.
