Hockeyroos draw 2-2 with New Zealand
The Hockeyroos have drawn 2-2 with New Zealand in their last pool match at the Oceania Cup in Stratford, New Zealand, ahead of their rematch in the final on Sunday.
Australia's women didn't get a penalty corner until four minutes from time on Saturday, but they made it count as Jodie Kenny converted to tie the scores.
Hockeyroos coach Adam Commens said the Black Sticks women have been testing his side.
"We were a little rusty in the first half, however, our second half was significantly better," Commens said.
"We made steps forward and it's going to set up an intriguing encounter tomorrow.
"This tournament is an important part of our selection for World League. We have players that are not here that are well in contention and players here that have an opportunity to show what they are capable of, it's going to be a difficult task to select our final team.
"We also have some young players that are inexperienced here, which is an opportunity for them and a moment where we are able to trial some of these younger players coming through.
"I have been really pleased with all of the young ones that played today," Commens said.
The trans-Tasman rivals, who have both already qualified for the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, will meet again in the Oceania Cup final on Sunday.
Australia took the lead on Saturday late in the opening quarter through Kathryn Slattery, who converted with a back stick tomahawk.
New Zealand's Kirsten-Leigh Pearce levelled proceedings with a reverse stick shot early in the second quarter.
Olivia Merry gave New Zealand the lead in the 39th minute with a deflection from a penalty corner.
But with four minutes remaining, Kenny stood tall at the top of Australia's battery, firing a powerful drag flick into the net to secure the Hockeyroos a 2-2 draw.
