The Football Ferns lost the first match of their two game series with Olympic Hosts China on Sunday night in the Southern City of Guangzhou.
New Zealand conceded an early goal in the 15th minute through a defensive error but recovered in the second half to enjoy a bigger share of possession and territory than the home
side.
“It’s very disappointing. Our girls dominated the second half. We pushed for a goal, created chances and put a lot of pressure on them,” said New Zealand coach John
Herdman.
“We’ve worked hard in the two trainings we’ve had since we arrived and have done extremely well against a side that’s been in camp for a full month.”
China’s new French coach Elisabeth Loisel started nine players from the recent World Cup squad, including star striker Han Duan.
Substitute Simone Carmichael went closest to scoring for New Zealand, but her curling effort shaved the post midway through the second half.
Herdman applauded the attacking influence of captain Hayley Moorwood and some timely saves from Jenny Bindon but reserved his biggest plaudits for his younger contingent.
“The likes of Abby Erceg are now showing the benefit of experience. We had five under-20s on the pitch and they’re starting to lap up these sort of situations. Nothing fazes them,”
Herdman said.
The side play a second match on Wednesday night.
story from NZPA