New Zealand take Gold in SA

Spain 0 v 1 Japan 2009-10-18 15:00
No Venue | BDO Champions Challenge Finals (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

South Africa 1 v 2 New Zealand 2009-10-18 17:00
No Venue | BDO Champions Challenge Finals (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

The Black Sticks beat South Africa overnight 2 - 1 in a sensational result which lifts the side back into top six elite.

With the win, New Zealand not only secured the BDO Champions Challenge I title and cup, but also won a place in the prestigious Champions Trophy tournament, which will be held in July 2010 in Nottingham in England. Bringing together the six best teams in the world, this tournament will give the Black Sticks the best possible preparation for their World Cup campaign three months later.

New Zealand last competed in a Champions Trophy in 2006.

Team Manager Debbie Balme said the team went out there from the beginning wanting to win. "It's an awesome result and we deserved it," she said.

After a balanced start, during which South Africa had a number of good opportunities, New Zealand started to slowly pick up momentum, controlling the ball well and steadily increasing their share of ball possession.

Anita Punt scored from a crowded circle for the Black Sticks' first goal in the 17th minute. Four minutes before half time Clarissa Eshuis converted a now trademark penalty corner drag flick conversion for a 2 - 0 lead.

South Africa won a penalty corner, and this time, Kate Woods in the 64th minute,converted with a low flick, setting her team off on a high intensity campaign to put away the elusive equalizer that would keep their hopes of victory alive. Spurred on by the enthusiastic supporters in a well filled stadium, the girls in green and gold created a string of chances but could not finish.