lunch: Francis Davies scored twice as New Zealand converted three penalty corners to beat Italy 3-0 in their first Pool B match of the FIH Women’s Olympic Qualifiers in Ranchi on Saturday.
New Zealand was represented by Davis (7 minutes, 51 minutes) and Stephanie Dickins (53 minutes).
The Black Sticks got off to an aggressive start and put pressure on the Italian defense from the beginning.
Their efforts paid off as they secured two penalty corners within seven minutes of the game, the second of which resulted in a goal.
The first flick was saved by Italian goalkeeper Ines Lucia Caruso before Davis scored from the rebound.
The match was played mainly in Italy’s territory, and New Zealand continued to play an attacking game and earned another penalty corner in the 11th minute, but nothing was converted.
Italy’s only chance of the first quarter came on a penalty corner in the 13th minute, but they squandered it.
It was a much better display for the world number one player. In the second quarter, No. 27 Italy did not give the New Zealand forwards much space.
However, although New Zealand succeeded in creating chances with consecutive penalty corners seconds after half-time, they were unable to extend their lead.
In the third quarter, Italy’s defense found itself in a bind with New Zealand’s attackers, and a fierce battle ensued.
Italy now won a penalty corner, but wasted the chance.
Leading by their only goal, the Black Sticks emerged with more offensive intent in the fourth and final quarter, scoring two quick goals from penalty corners.
Davis scored his second goal of the match in the 51st minute, and two minutes later Dickins made it 3-0 in New Zealand’s favor.
New Zealand then retreated and firmly defended their citadel, and the match was over.
New Zealand will play hosts India in their next matches on Sunday, while Italy will take on the United States.