Great Britain Under-18 Women began the four-team international tournament in Budapest with a 10-0 defeat at the hands of hosts Hungary U18 Women.
Hungary, who play a level above GB in the U18 Women’s World Championship structure, won the game with period scores of 5-0, 3-0 and 2-0.
Sheffield Shadows forward Lizzie Saunders was named as GB’s Player of the Game.
Coach, Cheryl Smith, said: “The scoreline looks very disappointing but we can’t dwell on it.
“Hungary were ruthless and they gave us a lesson in the basics of zone coverage.
“The girls, of course, are disappointed and they gave it everything they had, but they will learn from this and take it forward.
“The positive to take from it is that the girls got better as the game went on. I am proud of them and how they have taken the defeat.
“It is hard for any athlete to lose but they understand the process.
“We have a young squad out here and a number of under-16 players, so experience is important for them and it is getting them ready for international hockey at a World Championship.
“We have less than 24 hours until facing Poland and we know we will have to do better.”
GB face Poland Under-18 Women tomorrow at 8:40am UK time, followed by their final game of the tournament against Spain Women on Thursday.