News 07 February 2014
All the news for Friday 7 February 2014
Waveriders prevail over Magicians
Y. B. Sarangi
Akashdeep Singh of Delhi Waveriders celebrates with his team mate after scoring the goal for his team against Dabur Mumbai Magician during their Hockey India League match in New Delhi on Thursday . Photo: Sandeep Saxena
The first date between Delhi Waveriders and bottom-placed Mumbai Magicians in the Hockey India League (HIL) Season-II turned out to be closer than expected.
Waveriders toiled hard to notch up a 2-1 win, its fourth in this edition, and consolidate its place at the peak with 24 points. Magicians got one point from the loss to total six points from five matches.
In the dull opening quarter, Rupinderpal Singh and Sardar Singh proved their worth for the host by showing some gritty work at the back and occasional movement to feed their colleagues up. Magician could have gained a huge ground had Bharat Chikara’s freak effort in the 11th minute not been palmed away by Waveriders’ alert custodian Nicolas Jacobi.
Waveriders brought some life into the match by drawing first blood in the 20th minute. Lloyd Norris Jones, who had seen his fine solo run go waste in the first period, took advantage of a trapping error by Gurjinder Singh and dashed about 30 yards before passing the ball onto his unmarked companion Akashdeep Singh. The young forward beat one defender to fire in with a reverse stick. The touring side’s midfield and defence gelled well and the controlled game of Adam Dixon, Timothy Deavin, Vikas Pillay and V.S. Vinaya prevented any immediate damage. The home side made some spirited moves, but it was not easy to punch holes in the Magicians’ wall.
The consistent Gurbaj Singh ruled the right flank, while Sardar was busy marshalling his men and plotting attacks for the host. Waveriders nearly got its second goal when Simon Child’s shot off the rebound that was saved by Magicians’ goalkeeper David Harte.
The third quarter was eventful as umpire Raghu Prasad did not allow a Waveriders goal and Magicians restored parity in style. Sarvanjit Singh sent in a cross from the right and Simon Mantell relayed it to Glenn Turner on goalmouth to earn the eqaliser in the 49th minute.
Yuvraj Walmiki’s 66th minute winner off a pass from the left surprised Harte and the Waveriders erupted in joy.
The result: Delhi Waveriders 2 (Akashdeep Singh 20, Yuvraj Walmiki 66) bt Mumbai Magicians 1 (Glenn Turner 49).
The Hindu
Delhi continue to ride the wave
Biswajyoti Brahma
NEW DELHI: Delhi Waveriders overcame Mumbai Magicians 2-1 in a Hero Hockey India League match in the Capital on Thursday and consolidated their position at the top of the points table. The loss, on the other hand, took the win-less Magicians a step closer to elimination.
Delhi took their points tally to 24 from seven matches, while Mumbai stayed at the bottom of the table along with Kalinga Lancers on six points. Mumbai needed to create some magic to notch up their first win of the tournament and brighten their fast-sinking chances of making it to the semifinals. They were required to pull up their socks and come up with an impressive show to stun the table toppers. But they weren't up to it.
If the fans were expecting an exciting match, they were left disappointed by the dull contest in the first two quarters. Waveriders' first goal in the 20th minute by Akashdeep Singh infused some interest into the match, but after that it was back to some ordinary hockey. Lloyd Norris Jones took the ball from his half to the Mumbai circle, where Akashdeep came up with a reverse flick much to the delight of the fans.
During the first 35 minutes, Mumbai made a few raids on Delhi's post but most of them lacked the sting to beat the consistent Delhi goalkeeper Nicolas Jacobi.
In the next quarter, Mumbai had a great chance to draw level, but Jacobi was alert to parry away MB Aiyappa's deflection from a Ravipal Singh pass.
Mumbai finally got a goal against their name when their skipper Glenn Turner pushed home after the Delhi keeper failed to clear the ball in the 49th minute. With time running out, Mumbai pressed hard for the winning goal in the fourth quarter but the Waveriders had the last laugh when Yuvraj Walmiki scored with just four minutes to go for the final hooter.
The Times of India
Waveriders beat Magicians, extend lead in HIL
NEW DELHI: Delhi Waveriders bagged five points from their 2-1 win over Mumbai Magicians at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here Thursday to extend their lead on top of the Hockey India League (HIL) standings.
The Waveriders now sit pretty on top of the standings with 24 points from seven matches ahead of second-placed Jaypee Punjab Warriors, who are on 18. Meanwhile, sixth and last Magicians took home a point from their loss. Teams losing with less than a two-goal difference are awarded a point in this tournament.
The first quarter started on an unproductive note with neither side taking too many initiatives, having a safety-first approach. But early in the second quarter Akashdeep Singh put the hosts on the board with a reverse flick after a brilliant run from Lloyd Norris-Jones provided him the pass.
The South African saw an empty field and led a counter-attack, evading two Magicians defenders and made a short pass to Akashdeep, who did not disappoint the home crowd in the 21st minute.
A few minutes later it started to drizzle heavily but that did not affect the morale of the Magicians, who were eager to equalise. Just towards halftime, England's Mark Gleghorne had a brilliant chance to level the match but his shot went just above the bar.
The Mumbai-based team had several chances in the third quarter and their persistence finally bore fruit when a shot at the goal was rebounded by Waveriders custodian Nicolas Jacobi, only to be pushed in by Magicians skipper Glenn Turner of Australia.
The hosts earned the first penalty corner of the match in the 59th minute but Rupinder Pal Singh's down-the-ground drag-flick hit was perfectly deflected by David Harte in the Magicians goal.
Both teams displayed high intensity hockey and counter-attacked each other on every chance they got in the last 10 minutes. Waveriders skipper and playmaker Sardar Singh was also in his elements creating several chances but the Magicians defence proved to be quite strong.
But four minutes from the close of play Waveriders' forward Yuvraj Walmiki was at the right place when a pass came his way to put his team 2-1 ahead. The 24-year-old had also scored for the Waveriders in Wednesday's game against the Uttar Pradesh Wizards.
It could have been anyone's game with such aggressive hockey but the Waveriders held on to the scoreline to come out on top.
Result: Delhi Waveriders beat Dabur Mumbai Magicians 2-1.
The Times of India
Rhinos to clash against Lancers on home ground
Hockey India League (HIL) defending champions Ranchi Rhinos take on debutants Kalinga Lancers on their home turf here on Friday.
After a tough draw with Dabur Mumbai Magicians on Tuesday, the Rhinos are practising with a fresh approach and new strategies. They have played three out of their four matches on home ground which has helped them to understand and implement tactics well in front of their home crowd.
Currently sitting in fourth position with 13 points, the Rhinos will try to showcase their best game and go up on the points table.
“We are looking forward to play our first game against the Lancers in this tournament. Our team is trying to improve themselves compared to our last match against the Magicians. With the support of home crowd, we will win this game. After a slow start, the Lancers have improved a lot and one can’t underestimate any team,” said Rhinos head coach Gregg Clark.
On the other hand, if the Lancers win, it will boost their future prospects. With a win, they will get five points which will give them hope to vie for the fourth slot by winning forthcoming matches.
Although the Lancers are debuting in the HIL, their overall performance has been a successful spell.
“It will be a tough game against the Rhinos at their home ground. Ranchi has a few star players who have the potential to turn the game any moment so it will not be an easy task to beat the defending champions. We have shown a lot of progress in the last game against the Delhi Waveriders. My boys will play as per planned strategy and give their best to beat the Rhinos,” Lancers head coach Terry Walsh said.
The Hindu
Sreejesh's best yet to come, says Australia's Bazeley
NEW DELHI: Australia's World Cup winning hockey goalkeeper George Bazeley feels Indian custodian PR Sreejesh's best is yet to come since goalkeepers are late bloomers.
The 30-year-old Bazeley, who plays for Uttar Pradesh Wizards in the Hockey India League (HIL), is impressed with the standard of Indian goalkeepers and also picked young Harjot Singh of Kalinga Lancers as a future prospect for Indian hockey.
"Sreejesh is undoubtedly outstanding. I have seen him play for a number of years and have seen him train as well. He is really good. They (India) wouldn't have picked him if he was not really up there," Bazeley said in an interview.
The Victorian, who was part of the World Cup winning Kookaburras here in 2010, said goalkeepers tend to mature late and India should be persistent with the youngsters.
"One of the most important things with goalkeepers is that you cannot be impatient with them. Goalkeepers do not start to mature until they are much older. Like I am 30. Sreejesh is still young. He is only 25-years-old and in terms of goalkeeping, he has been around for quite a while," said Bazeley, who was also part of the 2010 Commonwealth Games gold medal winning Australian team.
The Australian cited the example of Dutch Jaap Stockmann, silver medallist in the 2012 London Olympics, saying that goalkeepers generally hit their peak around 30.
"Sreejesh won't hit his peak until he is 30. Take Jaap Stockmann for example, he is 29-years-old and he is starting to hit his peak now. Now he is really dominant in the goal. Give Sreejesh his time and he will come out really good," said Bazeley, who describes himself as "Made in Melbourne" on his Twitter profile.
Bazeley, who made his debut in 2009, also hailed 20-year-old Lancers goalkeeper Harjot, who recently participated in the Junior World Cup here in December.
"Harjot has played well. He is getting opportunities and is taking his chances. So best of luck to him. He did well at the Junior World Cup. Though he was unlucky at times, he is a prospect coming through. I am sure there are many more talented goalkeepers in India," added Bazeley.
The Aussie is also quite impressed with the goalkeeping standards at the ongoing HIL.
"I think the goalkeeping standards have been outstanding in HIL because you have the best goalkeepers of the world playing here. You get to see the best 5-6 goalkeepers in the world here. What can get better than that!" added Bazeley.
The Times of India
‘Experience is the key factor’
Photo by S. SUBRAMANIUM
“Earlier, I had a healthy competition with Bharat Chetri and Adrian D’Souza. But now I am fighting with myself. I am trying to improve with every match. My aim is to do well in every match,” says P. R. Sreejesh in this interview with Y.B. Sarangi.
Notwithstanding the Indian hockey team’s inconsistency, P. R. Sreejesh always shines under the bar. On many an occasion the well-built goalkeeper from Kerala has stood out with his sterling showing.
Sreejesh, in a chat with Sportstar, analyses the side’s experience with new coach Terry Walsh and reveals the secret behind his consistency.
Question: Though the Indian team is not consistent with its performance, you have been performing consistently well.
Answer: A goalkeeper plays an individual role in a team game. Coordination is important among other players to perform well. Since the coach (Terry Walsh) is new, the team will take some time to settle down and play consistently. My case is different. I try to commit less number of mistakes. Individually, I try to maintain my good performance in every match. Sometimes, I concede goals due to no fault of mine. I get frustrated, but try to forget and look ahead. It is about the team. Everybody has to contribute to help the team win.
You do not have any competition from reserve ’keepers such as P. T. Rao (in his mid-thirties) and Harjot Singh (who recently played in the under-21 team).
Earlier, I had a healthy competition with Bharat Chetri and Adrian D’Souza. But now I am fighting with myself. I am trying to improve with every match. My aim is to do well in every match.
You started as a member of the junior side and now you are an integral part of the senior team...
For a goalkeeper, experience is the key factor. You should know how to handle pressure. You have to make several on the spot decisions. I got good exposure during my junior days. I have spent time with several coaches, such as Edward Aloysius, Ravi Verma, Romeo James and now Dave Staniforth (from South Africa). Every coach has a different style. I have learnt a lot from Staniforth. He is young and familiar with the latest changes, he understands me better.
Who are the goalkeepers for the future?
Right now, Harjot and Sushant Tirkey (who was also part of the India under-21 squad in the Junior World Cup) are the talented youngsters who are performing well. Srinivas Rao from Hyderabad is also good. All of them need a lot of international exposure to grow and mature.
How different is the new coach, Terry Walsh, from others?
As a goalkeeper, I am the first person to understand the strategy. I have to communicate with the players and pass on the message even if I notice a small mistake from our team. Walsh knows the European, Australian and Indian styles well. He is not making too many changes. He is trying to teach us how to play in the midfield, wait and counterattack. Besides, he is telling us when and how to put pressure on the opposition.
What was the reason behind India’s sudden turnaround (drawing and then beating Olympic champion Germany after two poor performances) in the Hockey World League?
We had some new players and we were playing for the first time under Walsh. And others were world class teams. So, it took some time to get used to the new style. Once we had some confidence, we got good results. Our performance shows that if we play to our potential, we can beat any top team. Winning against a tough side is great feeling and it makes the players play more confidently.
Sportstar
We have learnt so much from the HWL tournament — Walsh
This was the first tournament for India under Terry Walsh. Trying to get used to the Aussie’s methods, the host, without some of its key players, had the onerous task of bringing together some youngsters for the elite event, writes Y. B. Sarangi.
Splendid finish… the victorious Netherlands team with the trophy. The Dutchmen recovered from an early defeat to pulverise New Zealand in the final of the Hockey World League. PICS: R.V. MOORTHY
“Let’s not lose focus,” urged the chief coach, Terry Walsh, immediately after India settled for a rare sixth-place finish in the Hockey World League (HWL) finals in Delhi. This was the first tournament for the Indian team under Walsh, and the experience was no less dramatic for the whole squad than it was for those who witnessed the turnaround from the stands.
Trying to get used to Walsh’s methods, the Indian team, without some of its key players, had the onerous task of bringing together some youngsters for the elite event.
The host had a disappointing start to the tournament. In the league phase, against England and New Zealand, India looked like a bunch of amateurs. Whether it was the basics, tactical understanding or execution of plans, the team failed miserably and suffered ignominious defeats.
However, India came back with renewed vigour to play out a 3-3 draw against the Olympic champion, Germany, and take a 2-0 lead against the world champion, Australia, in the quarterfinals before going down 7-2.
The home side delivered the shock of the tournament when it showed far greater command over the game to beat Germany 5-4. India, however, suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Belgium to be placed sixth in the tournament.
For India, which normally finishes outside the top-six in high profile events, it was a huge morale-booster. Besides, the team gained some points from the event to return to the top-10 of the world rankings after a few years. India is ranked No. 8.
However, even a cursory glance at India’s performances against various teams in the HWL finals would explain why Walsh does not think that ‘two sunny days make a summer.’ The Australian was happy that the team tried to follow his advice to ‘hold back to last long’ and relied on counter-attacks. “We are trying to play to the greatest strengths we have,” said Walsh. “We have learnt so much from this tournament that we have gone to another level. We consider ourselves a team that can play now, not necessarily win… To go 55-60 minutes without a goal (against Belgium) shows that we are becoming more resilient in the back field, which is important,” he added.
Captain Sardar Singh, who has played under different foreign coaches, backed his young players. “If we play against top teams in top events, then it will enhance the confidence of our players. We have to go a long way,” he said.
Walsh is concerned about the overall improvement of the side, including fitness. Although India is set to play in the World Cup in May, the Aussie considers the Asian Games in September the real challenge. The continental Games will give the side some time to improve its skills and provide an opportunity to qualify for the Rio Olympics.
With the Commonwealth Games and the Champions Trophy also scheduled for 2014, it will be a difficult task for Walsh as far as the fitness of the players is concerned. He will have to rotate his players well in order to keep them free of injuries. The recovery from injuries of at least half-a-dozen key players will be crucial to Walsh’s plans.
Terry Walsh greets Rupinder Singh, who scored the winning goal against Germany in a play-off match in the Hockey World League. "We are trying to play to the greatest strengths we have," said India's chief coach.
The HWL was an important event as the top sides used this as a platform to test their strengths and weaknesses in the run-up to the World Cup. Australia, which came to the tournament without some of its regular players, paid the penalty for not grabbing its chances and had to settle for the fourth place. Still, it gathered enough points to displace Germany from the world number one position.
Germany, which did not have enough outdoor training due to the winter season, could not avail the services of a few impact players. It struggled with its rhythm and ended in the seventh spot.
The Netherlands, which recovered from an early loss to put in some compact performances later, beat New Zealand comprehensively in the final to win the first edition of the FIH (International Hockey Federation) event.
Sportstar
Beeston eye East Grinstead in crucial clash
LEADERS Beeston play host to rivals East Grinstead on Saturday as the NOW: Pensions Men’s Hockey League Premier Division springs back into life after the Winter break.
East Grinstead are on a roll having won the Maxinutrition Hockey 5s Championship at Wembley last weekend, and will be out to gain revenge over Beeston who beat them 3-1 earlier in the season.
That was the last time East Grinstead lost a competitive match, and Manager Matt Jones said: “We’re riding on the crest of a very successful wave on the indoor game, and are keen to carry that into the outdoor league.
“This is a pivotal game for both teams. There were a lot of reasons why we weren’t firing on all cylinders when they beat us back in September, so we will be looking to set the record straight.”
Reading could move up to second if they win at Cannock on Saturday, while Hampstead and Westminster host Sheffield Hallam in Saturday’s other Premier Division match.
Sunday sees fourth-placed Surbiton go to fifth-placed Wimbledon, while Loughborough Students host Canterbury.
In the NOW: Pensions Conference North, leaders Brooklands MU go to second-placed University of Durham on Saturday, while in the NOW: Pensions Conference West third-placed Cardiff and Met entertain leaders Team Bath Buccaneers, and will close to within one point if they take the win.
And Holcombe will be aiming to preserve their narrow lead in the NOW: Pensions Conference East when they go to Brighton on Sunday, while Southgate could overtake them when they play at Cambridge City.
The NOW: Pensions Men’s Hockey League gets underway again this weekend and there will be number of high profile players missing for the first three weeks as they participate in the Hockey India League. East Grinstead see Ashley Jackson, Iain Lewers and Mark Gleghorne in action, while Beeston’s Adam Dixon, Holcombe’s Barry Middleton and Reading’s Simon Mantell will also be absent from the first few weeks of matches. League regulations permit a deferred return in these circumstances.
League Finals Weekend
The winners of the NOW: Pensions Men’s Hockey League and the Investec Women’s Hockey League will be crowned over two action-packed weekends at Reading Hockey Club in April. The top four Premier Division teams qualify for their respective finals weekends, laying off against each other to be crowned league champions.
The men’s finals will take place on the 5-6 April while the women will battle it out a week later from 12-13 April. Tickets are now available to purchase for both weekends, please visit www.englandhockey.co.uk/tickets
Transfer deadline, who’s gone where?
East Grinstead welcome Fillip Neusser, the Czech Republic keeper who has been instrumental in their indoor success in the past two seasons. Neusser has previously played outdoors in England having appeared for Bromley & Beckenham in 2006-07.
Reading see Olly Deasy move to rivals Hampstead, but they welcome back former international Tom Bertram who has rejoined. Spaniard Xavi Tost Forrellat joins Canterbury from Egara, and Cannock welcome back South African Ashlin Freddy in their fight to move away from the relegation places, along with Arjan Drayton Chana who's returned from rivals Sheffield Hallam.
In NOW: Pensions Conference East Southgate look to challenge Holcombe with the arrival of South Africans Francois Pretorious and Matt Coombes, and Australian/Polish Dave Spence as well as Joe Sterlini returning from East Grinstead.
Another team with Conference championship hopes are Indian Gymkhana, who are second in the West behind Team Bath Buccaneers. They have strengthened with Aleix Alzuria joining from Atletic Terrassa, Nikoloa Dombrowksi from Rot Weiss Munich; Mexican Francisco Montoya rejoins and Tommy Alexander moves from Hampstead.
At the other end of the table Isca have registered ex-international Jon Evennett and Guildford have signed Mo Rahman from Lewes and Russian Aleksandr Boitcov. Full details of all player transfers and registrations movements can be found here.
NOW: Pensions Men’s Hockey League (Saturday, February 8 2014)
NOW: Pensions Premier Division
Beeston v East Grinstead 14:00
Cannock v Reading 14:00
Hampstead & Westminster v Sheffield Hallam 14:00
NOW: Pensions Conference East
Old Loughtonians v Richmond 13:00
Oxted v Bromley & Beckenham 15:30
NOW: Pensions Conference North
Univ of Durham v Brooklands MU 14:00
NOW: Pensions Men’s Hockey League (Sunday, February 9 2014)
NOW: Pensions Premier Division
Loughborough Students v Canterbury 14:00
Wimbledon v Surbiton 14:00
NOW: Pensions Conference East
Brighton and Hove v Holcombe 13:00
Cambridge City v Southgate 13:30
Teddington v St Albans 12:30
NOW: Pensions Conference North
Belper v Deeside Ramblers 14:00
Bowdon v West Bridgford 14:30
Khalsa (Warks) v Wakefield 14:30
Olton & West Warwicks v Leek 13:30
NOW: Pensions Conference West
Cardiff & Met v Team Bath Buccaneers 13:00
Cheltenham v Univ of Exeter 13:00
Guildford v Univ of Birmingham 12:00
Havant v Fareham 14:00
Isca v Indian Gymkhana 12:30
England Hockey Board Media release
Canterbury face Bowdon as League resumes
Canterbury's Nikki Lloyd against Reading's Emily Maguire
WITH just one defeat in the first half of the outdoor season, Canterbury will be aiming to keep that momentum going when they take on Bowdon Hightown in the Investec Women’s Hockey League Premier Division on Saturday.
Canterbury lost out to Bowdon Hightown on penalties in the semi finals of the Maxinutrition Hockey 5s Championship, and they will be looking to gain revenge over a Bowdon Hightown side who reached the final of the indoor tournament before losing to Reading last weekend.
For their part, Reading have a double header weekend with Beeston coming to Sonning Lane on Saturday and Surbiton making the same trip on Sunday.
Third-placed Surbiton will be aiming to continue the four-match winning run they pieced together before the Winter break, and could go top of the table if they beat Olton on Saturday, Reading on Sunday, and other results go in their favour.
However, both Reading and Surbiton will be impacted by the GB women’s training camp in America, with seven players from Reading and five from Surbiton missing from league action until February 22.
“This weekend could be a turning point,” said Reading official Sue Newman. “But it will be difficult because we’re coming straight off the indoor matches so it will be a tough ask.
“However, we’ve got a very good deep squad, and quite a lot of our starting line-up weren’t in the indoor squad. It will be a challenge, but every game is a challenge and we take nothing for granted.”
Elsewhere, Bowdon Hightown climbed above Leicester when they beat them back in December, but Leicester will want to take back a vital spot in the top four when they play host to Sutton Coldfield on Saturday.
And Clifton could also put themselves in the top four if they win against the University of Birmingham.
In the Investec Conference East, second-placed East Grinstead face a vital match against third-placed Sevenoaks. Both sides will be desperate for a win to help close the gap to leaders Holcombe, who are six points clear and travel to strugglers Ipswich on Saturday.
Leaders Buckingham go to Trojans on Saturday in the Investec Conference West, while Slough could go top if they beat Barnes and Buckingham slip up.
And after going top of the Investec Conference North in the last set of matches before the Winter break, Wakefield entertain Loughborough Students, while second-placed Brooklands Poynton go to Boots.
Transfer deadline, who’s gone where?
With the Investec Women’s league restarting this week, Monday was the registration deadline for the second half of the season. A number of clubs have taken the opportunity to register players returning from US College hockey. This includes Hayley Turner (Canterbury), Holly Brown (Loughborough Students), Kaye Goulding (Doncaster) and Chloe Hunnable (Ipswich). Another player coming from North America is Canadian Hailey Karroum who transfers to Wimbledon from Toronto Titans.
There's a number of teams in the Premier Division and Conferences that will be playing without their GB and England stars as 30 centralised athletes have travelled to San Diego for a warm-weather training camp until 17 February.
However, there has been little movement of players in the top flight. As well as Hayley Turner, Canterbury have signed England cricketer Susie Rowe from Bromley & Beckenham. Beeston and Bowdon Hightown will see new young Dutch players in their ranks with Annique Slagter and Roos Weers joining respectively.
Another player with a Dutch connection is recently capped GB player Shona McCallin who moves from MOP in the Netherlands to Conference East side Old Loughtonians. Leaders of that Division, Holcombe, welcome a new Spaniard – Miriam Gilbert Marcet – from Egara.
Wakefield have bolstered their Conference North title hopes with the signing of Australian Jenna Wilson from St Andrews Brisbane, and Conference West title contenders Slough have transferred in Mel Ball from St Albans. Full details of all player transfers and registrations movements can be found here.
League Finals Weekend
The winners of the NOW: Pensions Men’s Hockey League and the Investec Women’s Hockey League will be crowned over two action-packed weekends at Reading Hockey Club in April. The top four Premier Division teams qualify for their respective finals weekends, laying off against each other to be crowned league champions.
The men’s finals will take place on the 5-6 April while the women will battle it out a week later from 12-13 April. Tickets are now available to purchase for both weekends, please visit www.englandhockey.co.uk/tickets
Investec Women’s Hockey League (Saturday, February 8 2014)
Investec Premier Division
Canterbury v Bowdon Hightown 11:45
Clifton v Univ of Birmingham 13:00
Leicester v Sutton Coldfield 14:00
Olton & West Warwicks v Surbiton 12:00
Reading v Beeston 13:30
Investec Conference East
Chelmsford v Old Loughtonians 14:00
Horsham v St Albans 13:30
Ipswich v Holcombe 14:00
Sevenoaks v East Grinstead 12:00
Wimbledon v Harleston Magpies 14:00
Investec Conference North
Ben Rhydding v Kendal 13:30
Boots v Brooklands Poynton 12:30
Doncaster v Stourport 12:00
Univ of Durham v Whitley Bay & Tynemouth 12:00
Wakefield v Loughborough Students 13:30
Investec Conference West
Barnes v Slough 12:00
Bristol Firebrands v Gloucester City 13:30
Isca v Swansea City 12:30
Oxford Hawks v Exe 12:00
Trojans v Buckingham 12:00
Investec Women’s Hockey League (Sunday, February 9 2014)
Investec Premier Division
Reading v Surbiton 14:00
England Hockey Board Media release
Black Sticks eye move up rankings
By Michael Brown
Experienced goalkeeper Bianca Russell will enhance the Black Sticks' run-up to the World Cup. Photo / Brett Phibbs
New Zealand's World Cup hockey build-up takes shape next week with a series of internationals against Britain and the US in San Diego.
The intensity will move up a gear with the inaugural six-nation tournament in Hawkes Bay in April, but San Diego is the first step in what the Black Sticks hope will be a return back up the women's rankings.
They slipped to seventh after a disappointing World League finals campaign in Argentina late last year when they finished fifth.
Injuries to key players, notably midfielder Stacey Michelsen - who was initially named for this trip then withdrawn to give her repaired knee more rehabilitation time - and strikers Katie Glynn and Krystal Forgesson have trimmed the strength of the group.
On the flipside, experienced goalkeeper Bianca Russell is back, with top-class defender Emily Naylor, who both missed the World League finals.
In coach Mark Hager's book, one player's misfortune opens the door for another - in this case Canterbury pair Jenny Storey, who missed out in last year's national squad, and midfielder Jordan Grant, after a strong national league and improved fitness levels, get a chance.
Britain are ranked third, the US 10th. New Zealand's last game against Britain was the bronze playoff at the London Olympics, when they were disappointing.
"They're both very physical, tough teams and very hard to play against," Hager said. "It's a different style to what we've been used to playing teams like Australia or Argentina, but they are two teams also building up to the World Cup, so it's an exciting time to see where we're at.
"It [also] gives an opportunity to try some players trying to break in against quality opposition."
So, the players get valuable international activity and Hager has an opportunity to sift through his options for the World Cup, to be played in The Hague in May-June.
The Black Sticks left for San Diego last night and have practice games on Sunday and Monday against Britain and the US respectively.
The New Zealand Herald
Canada Through to Semis in Puerto Rico
2014 Pan American Youth Championship - Canada vs. Argentina (4-5)
San Juan, Puerto Rico - The Canadian Men’s team competing in the Pan American Youth Championships have booked their ticket directly to the semi-finals with a 6-5 win over the United States. After five games over three days, Canada (4W – 1L) has amassed 55 goals in securing second overall in the pool standings.
The Youth Continental Championship features the exciting Hockey5s version of the game. Hockey 5s will make its major international debut at the 2014 Youth Olympics in Nanjing China. If Canada is able to win the semi-final game on Friday, they will secure their spot in Nanjing. Canada’s semi-final opponent will be either the United States (3rd after pool play) or Guatemala (6th after pool play).
"Our group has grown and improved in every game we’ve played,” explained coach Indy Sehmbi. “The players have adjusted and excelled at playing Hockey5 and we’re looking forward to a competitive semi-final match tomorrow.”
Squad captain, Balraj Panesar is tied for the team lead with 10 goals in the tournament. After a brief stint back to Canada after his Junior World Cup campaign in India, Panesar has been a force in Puerto Rico. "We are looking forward to a potential re-match against the United States tomorrow and an improved team performance. We definitely want to step it up a notch from today so that we can qualify for the Youth Olympic Games,” stated Panesar.
Field Hockey Canada media release
Mens YOG Qualifying Team Continues to Display Growth in Puerto Rico
The U.S. Men’s Youth Olympic Games (YOG) Qualification team journeyed to Puerto Rico last week to contend for an internationally desired slot at the 2014 YOG in Nanjing, China this summer by earning one of the top two spots during this week’s preliminary tournament. Games began early this week and run until February 8. Team USA’s first match-up was against Mexico which concluded with a 5-5 score. From there the squad met Guatemala on the pitch and earned their first win of the tournament, 9-3.
“The Under-18 men are growing into the tournament with improvements every game,” said Rutger Wiese Head YOG Coach. “After a difficult start the first game against Mexico, the team committed to go through the processes with a third place after the first two days of competition.”
The team proceeded to take tactical knowledge from each match and apply those lessons to the next game. After a 9-1 loss to Argentina, Team USA focused on key details to make pivotal changes for next opponent Puerto Rico. By adapting their plan of attack, the U.S. earned their second win of the tournament with a 11-0 score.
“I think that as a team we clearly grow every period of every match,” said Wiese. “The boys are quickly learning the lessons of international hockey. Especially the matches against Argentina and Puerto Rico on Wednesday showed what we are capable of as a team. I am excited about the next matches this tournament.”
Team USA will compete against Canada tomorrow to establish their pool play position.
USFHA media release
2014 Disney Field Hockey Showcase Competition Underway
Disney Field Hockey Showcase doubles as an excellent break from winter woes and the ultimate place for top field hockey clubs to show off their skills in front of hundreds of college coaches. The four day showcase event held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports in Orlando, Fla. began today, February 6, and will feature over 3,000 athletes from across the United States as well as Canada.
“We are excited to welcome everyone back to the ESPN Wide World of Sports where talent is showcased and family and friends are able to experience the magic of Disney,” said Karen Collins, Director of Event Logistics. “We are thrilled that this event continues to grow in number of participants and level of talent each and every year and we look forward to another exciting event here in sunny Florida.”
The Disney Field Hockey Showcase is one of many USA Field Hockey national events where talented Under-16 and Under-19 athletes battle it out for bragging rights in front of hundreds of college coaches and recruiters. The Disney Field Hockey Showcase, typically held in the beginning of February, originated eight years ago and began with just 56 teams. The event now features 190 teams on 17 pristine, professionally maintained field hockey pitches.
To add to the recruiting excitement of the showcase, 2014 marks the first year for USA Field Hockey’s utilization of Coach Packet by Front Rush. Coach Packet allows collegiate field hockey programs attending tournaments to set their schedule ahead of time using an mobile devices. At the tournament, Coach Packet is available offline so coaches can evaluate and rate athletes, create notes and follow the schedule accordingly. After the event, every game will be made available through Coach Packet's video feature.
Visit usafieldhockey.com for all Disney Showcase news, results and an up-to-date schedule of games. Join the conversation on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @USAFieldHockey #DisneyFH14.
USFHA media release
Poor pitch doesn't stop Olak
By Jugjet Singh
The Pandamaran Stadium’s artificial pitch is in need of major repairs.
FORMER double champions Old La Sallians Association of Klang (Olak) have been training on a tattered and fungus-infested artificial pitch, but still, they remain unbeaten after five matches in Division Two B of the Junior Hockey League.
And with two more matches to play, against Pahang Juniors on Sunday and SMK Padang Midin on Feb 15, Olak team manager Joseph de Silva wants to prove a point to help re-turf the Pandamaran Stadium artificial pitch.
"We had no choice but to train at the Pandamaran Stadium before the JHL started, and are still using it for training purposes even though it is torn and tattered in several spots.
"And I hope my boys keep up the momentum and win their remaining two matches so that those who have the power to repair the pitch will notice our progress and finally help us to re-turf the pitch," said de Silva.
In the five matches Olak have played -- against teams who have better home facilities, they won 6-0 against Kuala Lumpur HC, 10-1 against Permatang Juniors, 3-1 against Felda Academy Pahang, 5-1 against Larut Matang and Selama and 2-1 against 1Mas Perak.
The Pandamaran Stadium was declared as unplayable by the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC).
"That is why we play our home matches at the Kuala Lumpur HA Stadium. But training is still at Pandamaran, even though the artificial pitch is in a deplorable state.
"We had to utilise the club funds to wash the fungus at the Pandamaran pitch to continue training there, but it has all been worth it as my boys have proven themselves by scoring 26 goals and conceding only four in five matches."
Meanwhile, the Division One title is expected to be decided by tomorrow, when title front-runners UniKL Young Guns and SSTMI Thunderbolts come face-to-face.
Before that, UniKL need to beat SSTMI Juniors today while Thunderbolts must beat Malacca High School to set up the finale duel.
TODAY -- Division One: Malacca High School v SSTMI Thunderbolts (5pm, Malacca Stadium), UniKL Young Guns v SSTMI Juniors (5pm, Bukit Jalil, Pitch II).
Division Two A: Syed Hassan v MSSP-USM (5pm, Kuala Perlis), STAR v Nur Insafi (5pm, Azlan Shah Stadium).
Division Two B: KLSS Juniors v larut Matang (5pm, Kuala Lumpur HA), MSS Pahang v Permatang Juniors (5pm, Kuantan), Padang Midin v 1MAS Perak (5pm, Kuala Terengganu).
Division Two C: SM Tunku Besar v BJSS Juniors (5pm, Seremban II).
New Straits Times
Bad state of turf no stumbling block for Olak team
By Aftar Singh
The Olak-PKT players struggle to train on the old and worn-out turf at the Pandamaran Hockey Stadium in Klang.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Pandamaran Hockey Stadium in Klang is in a deplorable state.
The turf is so worn-out and torn that it cannot be used for any tournaments, let alone for training.
Yet, the Old La Sallians Association of Klang (Olak)-PKT continue to train there every day.
Not by choice but because there isn’t any other turf available in Klang.
Despite the lack of a proper turf to train on, Olak-PKT have proven to be the team to beat in Group B of Division Two in the MHC-Milo-NSC Malaysian Junior Hockey League (MJHL).
Olak, the former Division One league and overall champions, lead Group B standings with maximum points from five matches.
They have scored a whopping 26 goals and conceded only four in five matches.
They have two more matches left to play – against MPS Pahang Juniors on Sunday in Kuantan and Padang Midin of Terengganu at the Kuala Lumpur Hockey Stadium on Feb 15.
Olak-PKT team manager Joseph De Silva said that the Pandamaran Hockey Stadium has become an eyesore.
“The turf is in a bad condition ... it’s torn everywhere and it is dangerous because it’s slippery and players might get injured,” he said.
“The turf was infected with fungus and I had to use my own money to wash the turf,” said Joseph.
“Despite the awful state of the turf, we have to train there because there is no other turf available for us to train at in Klang ... or Selangor for that matter.
“We have complained to the Klang Municipal Council about the condition of the turf several times but nothing has been done to lay a new turf.
“But I want to praise my players for playing exceptionally well to lead Group B despite training in such deplorable conditions.
“We have to play our home matches at the KL Hockey Stadium in Lembah Pantai ... we are confident of winning our remaining two matches to qualify for the playoff for the knockout stage and also gain promotion to Division One next year.”
The top four teams from Division One and top four from Division Two will feature in the knockout stage.
The Star of Malaysia
Defender Aminudin unhappy with goals return
By Aftar Singh
A file picture of Mohd Aminudin Zain. He has set a lofty target of scoring 15 goals in the Under-19 league this season.
KUALA LUMPUR: Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sports School (SSTMI)-Thunderbolt defender Mohd Aminudin Zain is far from pleased with his performance despite having scored four penalty corners goals in three matches in the MHC-Milo-NSC Malaysian Junior Hockey League (MJHL).
The defender, who is from Rantau Panjang, Kelantan, scored two goals each in the first two matches against SSTMI Juniors (6-1) and Anderson (7-0).
But he failed to get on the score sheet in his team’s 6-0 win over Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ).
Aminudin, who will turn 19 on May 23, has very high expectations of himself, having set a personal target of scoring 15 goals in the Under-19 league.
“To achieve that I need to score in every match ... but I failed to do so against MBPJ. I took three penalty corners in that match and yet failed to find the target.
“I need to improve on the technique and accuracy of my drag flicks. My team-mates are banking on me to deliver the penalty corner goals and I don’t want to let them down,” said Aminudin, who is an employee of Tenaga Nasional.
Thunderbolt lead the Division One standings with maximum points from three matches and face a crucial weekend in their bid to retain the league title.
The three-time double champions since 2011 will take on Malacca High School on Friday in Malacca before facing former champions and arch rivals Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) on Saturday at the Kuala Lumpur Hockey Stadium.
UniKL, who have two wins from two matches, will meet SSTMI Juniors on Friday in KL before they the clash against Thunderbolt.
Aminudin, who was dropped from the last year’s Junior World Cup squad, admitted that the pressure would be on them to retain the league title.
“It won’t be easy playing two away matches in two days. We won’t take Malacca High School lightly as they will surely give their best against us to keep their hopes of a place in the knockout stage alive.
“We need to conserve energy for the crucial match against UniKL, who will be seeking to end our domination in the league,” said Aminudin, who hopes to get back to his scoring ways in the next two matches.
Thunderbolt’s sixth and final match is against minnows KLHC-KLSS next weekend.
But Aminudin knows that if they win both this weekend’s matches, then the title is virtually theirs again.
The Star of Malaysia
FIH announce Athletes’ Committee Elections
The inaugural athletes’ elections will take place during the upcoming men’s and women’s Rabobank Hockey World Cup
(Photo: Frank Uijlenbroek)
The inaugural athletes’ elections will take place during the upcoming men’s and women’s Rabobank Hockey World Cup
Our vision to entertain and inspire fans and players all over the world is off to a great start this year having successfully concluded the first edition of the Hockey World League alongside delivering more entertainment in our online channels. Our new broadcast partner, STAR Sports, means we plan to invest heavily in the global promotion and production of hockey from 2015; to do this, the involvement of our athletes remain central to our development.
This is why, for the first time, we will be holding Athletes’ Elections during the upcoming Rabobank Hockey World Cup (May 31 – June 15, The Hague, Netherlands).
The role of the Athletes’ Committee is :
To provide current and past international athletes with the opportunity to contribute to the continuous development, growth and evolution of hockey
To represent the views of the Athletes within the FIH, protect their interests and uphold their rights and obligations
To serve as the link between active athletes and the FIH
To raise awareness and educate athletes on topics of direct concern
We are asking National Associations to nominate one athlete before 28 February, 2014, who is a current or former athlete. The eligibility criteria are:
Be over 18 years old
Have not incurred any measure or sanction in relation of any violation of the World Anti-Doping or Anti-Corruption Codes and must not have been banned from the game
Be able to communicate effectively in English
Be current or former international athletes who last played international hockey no longer than 4 years before the date of their nomination
Elections will be held in The Hague during the men’s and women’s World Cup, with two men and two women elected. The remaining four seats will be appointed by the Executive Board in March 2015 completing the eight person Athletes’ Committee.
The members of the Athletes’ Committee will serve as a consultative body and will make recommendations to the FIH Executive Board, FIH Committees, Advisory Panels and other bodies. Their roles will also cover seeking and providing feedback to the FIH on behalf of all athletes, whilst developing and promoting resources and initiatives to athletes such as health and welfare, anti-doping, social media, our need to create stars to attract new fans, career preparation and management.
CEO Kelly Fairweather said, “ Our athletes are some of our most passionate fans. They know our sport of hockey inside out. When we evolve our TV production working with STAR, we want them to be involved. When we grow concepts like Hockey5s we want our athletes at the table driving the direction with us. ”
The Committee will also play a central role in liaising with the Athletes’ Commission of the IOC and other sporting organisations to enable the sharing of information and research and ultimately developing the game of hockey.
FIH site
Hockey stars promote hotel partnership
Nikki Evans, Irish Women’s Senior Hockey, Shane O’Donoghue Irish Men’s Senior Hockey.
Irish Hockey Stars Nikki Evans and Shane O'Donoghue paid a visit to Stillorgan Park Hotel this week to promote the continued partnership of Irish Hockey and the Hotel. Stillorgan Park Hotel will proudly continue as the Official Hotel Partner of Irish Hockey for 2014.
As an Official Partner the hotel will provide accommodation, meeting & events facilities for Irish Hockey. Commenting on the announcement Daragh O’Neill, General Manager stated “We are delighted to continue our association with Irish Hockey. The partnership is an endorsement of the excellent standards and level of service we are committed to providing to sports teams & groups”
In 2012 the hotel played host to a number of senior international hockey teams who were participating in the pre qualifying tournament for the London Olympics. Stillorgan Park Hotel is located 5 minutes from the Irish Hockey headquarters in UCD and can provide accommodation, pre or post match refreshments and team meeting rooms to local, national and international teams.
Irish Hockey Association media release