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Congratulations to our four Aucklanders who debuted for the Vantage Black Sticks Women in their test match series victory over Japan.
On Saturday 13th April Breana Catley, Izzy Gill and Emma Rainey all debuted in the first match of the series, a 1-1 draw. In the second test Rebecca Baker got her chance to debut, with Emma Rainey claiming her second cap.
Katie Doar played in both test matches, with Rose Tynan coming into the match-day squad for test match two on Sunday. Rose scored a sensational goal, showing incredible control and power, striking in the 56th minute almost immediately after Japan had levelled at 1-1.
With sell-out crowds over the weekend it was a fantastic home atmosphere for our players, who all played with immense pride, passion and skill. The series also marked the start of Hockey NZ’s historic free-to-air broadcast deal, with all games live on TVNZ+.
There were also a number of Aucklanders working behind the scenes gaining invaluable coaching experience. Rochi Gonzalez Canda and Danielle Cranston were both involved with the Vantage Black Sticks Women’s Coaching support team for the campaign. There was a strong Howick Pakuranga presence with Clive Daniels supporting Japan Women’s Head Coach Jude Menezes too.
Thank you to Jude and the Japan team who we were thrilled to host on Monday 15th April on our Paris 2024 Polygras turf at Lloyd Elsmore Park Stadium. We wish you the best of luck for your Olympic preparations, we’ll be cheering you on in Paris!
Meanwhile we also had two officials working the technical bench in the second test. John Etherington and Lindsay Peel were both Technical Officials also gaining some incredible international test hockey experience. Congratulations to the team at Hockey NZ and North Harbour Hockey for hosting an incredible series.
Thank you to Planet Hockey and Hockey NZ for the images.
