CHARLOTTE, N.C. – In their first of two matches of the Cathy Bessant International Series against No. 10 New Zealand, the No. 14 U.S. Women’s National Team defeated the Black Sticks, 3-0, over Independence Day weekend.
The first quarter of play was uneventful, with USA earning the first penalty corner of the match several minutes into the second frame. Caroline Ramsey sent in a high flick, which was saved but earned USA a second set piece chance. The second flick by Ramsey was right on target, but met with a nice save by the New Zealand goalkeeper.
USA’s first goal came late in the second quarter, when Abby Tamer sent a ball in toward the stroke spot and there was a scrum in front of the cage. Phia Gladieux held onto the ball and scooped a backhand flick into the cage to put the United Eagles up 1-0.