Vantage Black Sticks Women’s Coach Sean Dancer has named an experienced side to contest the opening match of the FIH Pro League. The side features 3 players with more than 200 matches experience for their country.
This includes Captain Stacey Michelsen who will lead the side in her 262ndmatch for the Vantage Black Sticks Women. Look for the Vantage Black Sticks Women to play some exciting attacking hockey as they look to start the 2019 season off positively.
Olivia Merry and Kirsten Pearce will be key to the team taking some great opportunities in front of goal. Teenage striker Olivia Shannon lines up for what will be her debut match against the most feared side in Women’s Hockey, The Netherlands.
The Netherlands are a side that is strong all over the park. They ended the year ranked number one in the world a trend that has been constant over the past 5 years. The Vantage Black Sticks Women are going to have to be at their absolute best in all areas of the game if they are going to beat the early favourites for the FIH Pro League.
Vantage Black Sticks Women’s Coach Sean Dancer commented on the Dutch “They are very good at scoring goals and taking their opportunities. Something that we will need to pay a lot of attention to”.
Vantage Black Sticks Women vs Netherlands Women. Sunday 27th Jan at 2:30pm. Coverage is on TVNZ 2
Vantage Black Sticks Women’s Squad
Name |
Position |
Caps |
Sally Rutherford |
Goalkeeper |
170 |
Grace O’Hanlon |
Goalkeeper |
38 |
Sam Charlton |
Defender |
226 |
Tarryn Davey |
Defender |
37 |
Frances Davies |
Defender |
53 |
Shiloh Gloyn |
Midfielder |
75 |
Ella Gunson |
Defender |
196 |
Megan Hull |
Defender |
4 |
Tessa Jopp |
Midfielder |
17 |
Rose Keddell |
Defender |
183 |
Olivia Merry |
Striker |
205 |
Stacey Michelsen |
Defender |
261 |
Brooke Neal |
Defender |
154 |
Kirsten Pearce |
Striker |
103 |
Olivia Shannon |
Striker |
Debut |
Kelsey Smith |
Striker |
86 |
Liz Thompson |
Defender |
173 |
Amy Robinson |
Striker |
56 |