McLaren goal keeps series alive
Veteran midfielder Anita McLaren has delivered her own fairytale finish to her 250th international for the Black Sticks.
With less than a minute remaining on the clock and the scores locked up at 2-2, McLaren struck a goal from deep in the field to deliver her side a much-needed victory in Buenos Aires.
McLaren, a two time Olympian who was playing in her first series since the Rio Olympic Games, kept the series alive with her matchwinner.
Before yesterday’s match Argentina held a 2-0 lead in the five-game series.
Until McLaren’s last minute heroics, Shiloh Gloyn had been the star for the Black Sticks with a pair of goals.
Her first came through a second-minute penalty corner and she followed that up in the 38th minute with a field goal.
Argentina led 2-1 at halftime after a Julieta Jankunas brace.
Black Sticks coach Mark Hager said it was pleasing to see his side improve from the first two games of the series.
‘‘The girls played with good structure and we were able to control Argentina’s attack much better than previous games,’’ he said.
‘‘It was great to see the girls fight hard today and apply some of the details we have been talking about.’’
The two teams clash in the fourth match of the series today.