Hockey World Cup 2018: Argentina vs New Zealand - 5 Talking Points

#3 Argentina play the match at a pace of their own choosing

Argentina controlled the pace and the flow of the match

The contest began with a bang as the Black Sticks began the proceedings at a blistering pace, but the Argentinians deliberately slowed the match down and doused the flames which New Zealand had ignited to unsettle their higher-ranked opponents.

Argentina followed a similar routine throughout, repeatedly playing long unhurried crosses deep within their own half and inviting the New Zealand players to move upfield and create gaps, before sending in some probing through-balls which their strikers made good use of.

Darren Smith's side could do little to prevent Argentina from controlling the flow and the pace of the match which frustrated the New Zealand unit and forced them to commit a series of errors which included handing over possession at crucial junctures and conceding avoidable PCs.

The Black Sticks have disappointed thus far and will have to up their game significantly if they do wish to make it to the crossovers (or quarterfinals) and beyond.