The New Zealand womens hockey team has slumped to a 3-nil loss to Argentina in Buenos Aires, to trail the hosts 2-1 in the six test series.
Argentina stepped up the tempo following Wednesday's 1-0 loss with their speed and tempo proving too much for the the Black Sticks.
The assistant coach Sean Dancer said it was a frustrating game in which they allowed the hosts to dictate play.
"It was a frustrating game today, we didn't pay attention to some of the little details and allowed Argentina to dictate to us," he said.
Sean Dancer Photo: Photosport
"Playing a top tier team you need to be at the top of your game and today we lacked the quality of basics in our tackling and ball control under pressure.
"We have a quick turnaround ahead of tomorrow's fourth game so the girls will do their recovery and scouting to ensure we go into the challenge on the front foot."
Argentina made a fast start and ran out to an early lead in just the fourth minute when Maria Granatto deflected into goal from close range.
The hosts doubled their advantage midway through the second quarter with Eugenia Trinchinetti capitalising on a loose ball in the circle.
Argentina sealed the result from a 36th minute penalty corner which Delfina Merino crashed into goal after an initial save.
The fourth test is on Saturday morning.