Vantage Black Sticks storm through to semis

The Vantage Black Sticks have stunned reigning champions Argentina 2-1 to progress to the semi finals at the Sentinel Homes Hockey World League Final in Auckland.

Argentina were dangerous from the opening whistle and scored early before a tremendous fightback powered New Zealand to a famous victory.

The result will see the Vantage Black Sticks go up against the winner of Thursday nights quarter final between England and the USA, with the draw to be confirmed at the conclusion of all quarter finals.

It was an extra special night for Shiloh Gloyn who played her 50th test in a match she certainly wont forget.

Defender Samantha Charlton said it was an incredible feeling to go through a tough pool phase and finally click when it counted.

"Everyone is pretty happy right now. We didnt have the start to the tournament that we were expecting but we knew wed get up for any game in the quarters and it was great to see us do that today," she said.

"It was good to see the girls really play with belief tonight even after going down early. You could see everyone had that fight in them.

"Whether its England or USA in the semi final we know it will be a tough game but we are certainly up for the challenge."

Argentina edged ahead in just the second minute when Delfina Merino capitalised on an opportunity deep in the circle to knock the ball past goalkeeper Sally Rutherford.

New Zealand rallied following the goal and created some great phases of play but went into halftime still trailing by one goal.

The Kiwis caught fire early in the third quarter and equalised through a 32nd minute penalty corner which Brooke Neal rocketed into the roof of the net.

Captain Stacey Michelsen put the Black Sticks in front just a minute later from another corner, getting a deflection on a great Ella Gunson ball to the far post.

New Zealand absorbed huge pressure from Argentina in the final quarter but were strong on defence with Rutherford also making some crucial saves.

In tonights other quarter final, Korea upset Germany 3-1 in a shoot-out after the game was locked up 3-3 at fulltime.

Event tickets can be purchased along with a full rundown of transport information through www.ticketek.co.nz

VANTAGE BLACK STICKS: 2 (Brooke Neal, Stacey Michelsen)

ARGENTINA: 1 (Delfina Merino)

Halftime: Argentina 1-0



- This story has been automatically published using a media release from Hockey NZ