New Zealand defender Meikayla Moore scores three own goals in 0-5 defeat to United States in SheBelieves Cup

Three own goals in the first half by New Zealand's Meikayla Moore has propelled the United States to a 5-0 victory Sunday in the SheBelieves Cup.

The Americans — who tied the Czech Republic 0-0 in their tournament opener on Thursday — got all the help it needed when Moore had own goals in the 5th, 6th and 36th minutes.

Members of the US team took over from there.

Ashley Hatch made it 4-0 in the 51st with a snap header via a service by Sofia Huerta, and Mallory Pugh scored in the third minute of second-half stoppage time.

«We're excited about the win,» US coach Vlatko Andonovski said after the match.

«They needed to see goals and that's good. We're hoping that this is just the beginning.

»I thought that we were able to impose ourselves early on and set up a rhythm of pace that that suits us."

The three own goals by Moore is the first time that has happened in a US women's national team match.

Andonovski said he thought Moore was in the right position to defend on all three own goals despite the final result.

New Zealand coach Jitka Klimkova subbed Moore out in the 40th minute, but reiterated support for her player.

«She had a tough day at the office,» Klimkova said.

«Obviously, she's sad and disappointed, but she's an unbelievable person and player who belongs on this team.

»We are all behind her in this tough moment for her."

The Americans were able to break New Zealand's press often in the first half and forced own goals by Moore, who was making her 50th international appearance.

A crossing pass from the American's Sophia Smith into the box deflected off Smith's right leg to put the US on top in the fifth minute.

The goal snapped a 181-minute shutout streak.

One minute later, Huerta's pass into the centre of the box went off Moore's