News 09 June 2014
All the news for Monday 9 June 2014
No joy for hat-trick Hayward, Los Leones roar towards semi-finals, Netherlands cruise past Lads
Other results in the pool will decide Germany's fate, Argentina blank Korea, Netherlands dominate South Africa
(Photo: Grant Treeby/Treebyimages)
As the qualification matches draw nearer we see Germany get the 3 points they needed to have any chance of staying alive for a semi-final appearance. Germany bested New Zealand 5-3 despite a hat-trick from Black Sticks flicker Andy Hayward. Results lie in the hands of the remaining games including Korea vs. Argentina (13:00 CET) and South Africa vs. Netherlands (19:45 CET).
MEN Pool B: New Zealand v Germany 3-5 (1-3)
Florian Fuchs got Germany off to a flying start by smashing the ball past Devon Manchester in the Black Sticks goal with just two minutes on the clock. This signalled the start of a German revival at this World Cup as they defeated the Black Sticks 5-3, but it still leaves the world number two team relying on a win by Korea over Argentina for the German side to progress through to the semi-finals. For the Black Stick's Andy Hayward it was a bitter-sweet game as he scored a hat-trick, but still ended on the losing team.
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MEN Pool B: Korea v Argentina 0-5 (0-3)
A stunning hat-trick from Gonzalo Peillat in the first 19 minutes of Argentina's match against Korea and an innovative second half goal sealed Argentina's status as a serious medal contender at this edition of the Rabobank Hockey World Cup. Argentina has ripped up the rule books in this tournament. Coach Carlos Retegui is doing the seemingly impossible job of guiding both the men's and women's teams to the semi-finals and the men come to this tournament with very little international match-play under their belts. Add in the small matter of an 11th-place FIH World Ranking and a classic tale of success against all the odds is beginning to unfold.
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MEN Pool B: South Africa v Netherlands 1-7 (0-4)
Two goals from Robbert Kemperman and wave after wave of orange attacks on their goal was enough to consign South Africa to a 7-1 defeat. But the Lads did not go down without a fight and, while an upset was never really on the cards, the Netherlands still had to work hard against a stubborn resistance to ensure their fourth win and a massive goal advantage over the other teams in their pool.
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For schedules, scores, highlights and more visit Rabobankhockeyworldcup2014.com.
FIH site
Sharkey strikes twice as American dream lives on, Late goals give wins to Argentina, China
USA crush Germany's semi-final hopes, Las Leonas survive scare, China down South Africa
(Photo: Grant Treeby/Treebyimages)
In a big day where points matter, the USA came out firing with a two-goal game from Kathleen Sharkey. Unites States commanded there way to a 4-1 win over Germany, while China edged South Africa, 4-3, with a late goal from Wang Mengyu. England put Argentina to the test but were unable to get the three points. Carla Rebecchi drained a late one to keep Argentina in check, winning 2-1 over England.
POOL STANDINGS
WOMEN Pool B: United States v. Germany 4-1 (1-0)
Team USA made it four wins out of four at the Rabobank Hockey World Cup to maintain their fairytale charge for the semi-finals with a crushing 4-1 victory over European Champions Germany. Kathleen Sharkey netted a brace with Caroline Nichols and Katie Reinprecht also on target as the lowest ranked team in Pool B produced another remarkable performance against supposedly superior opposition to move within touching distance of their first semi-final berth since the 1994 event in Dublin, Ireland. Tenth-ranked USA now sit proudly on ten points, and know that even if they are defeated in their final Pool B game against South Africa there is still a strong chance that they will compete for the medals.
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WOMEN Pool B: England v. Argentina 1-2 (1-1)
A goal scored in the last second of the match meant that world number three England still have no points in this Hockey World Cup. It was a game that started so well for the team seeking to restore some pride, but eventually Argentine tenacity paid off. Speaking after the game, coach Jason Lee said that it was unlikely that his squad would have a worse hockey experience than the one they are currently going through.
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WOMEN Pool B: China v. South Africa 4-3 (2-0)
A last gasp goal from defender Wang Mengyu gave China a 4-3 win over South Africa, keeping alive their slim chances of claiming a place in the semi-finals of the Rabobank Hockey World Cup in The Hague, Netherlands. The result puts China onto seven points, three points behind both USA and Argentina, two teams that have a vastly superior goal differences to their Chinese rivals going into the final round of matches. China's hopes of reaching the semi-finals are now reliant on a massive victory over reigning World Champions Argentina and for USA to lose heavily against South Africa on Tuesday. Germany, South Africa and England are all out of the reckoning for the medal matches.
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For more information, highlights, score and more visit Rabobankhockeyworldcup2014.com
FIH site
USA’s impressive runs continues at World Cup as Kathleen Sharkey’s double helps sink Germany 4-1
By Jawwad Qamar
Kathleen Sharkey opened and closed out the scoring for an impressive 4-1 win against European Champions and World number six Germany in pool B play at the World Cup in The Hague on Sunday.
When it looked like we’re headed for a goalless first half, Sharkey struck with her first goal at the 33rd minute mark after receiving a pass from Katie O'Donnell. Sharkey's shot went across, inside the right post to make it 1-0. Katelyn Falgowski started this drive after intercepting a German ball and passing it from left midfield to O'Donnell near the 25 yard line and O'Donnell in turn found the ever elusive Sharkey to her left. This was the fourth time in four matches that the US scored first at the World Cup.
Caroline Nichols faked out German keeper Barbra Vogel with a slap shot to the far right on USA’s third penalty corner four minutes into the second half to double the lead at 2-0. Things got worse for the Germans three minutes later as O'Donnell cut in from the right and this time found Katie Reinprecht who made no mistake going for the left corner for a comfortable 3-0 lead for the Americans.
Sharkey closed out the scoring in the 52nd minute with an interception of a pass by German defender Tina Bachmann and reverse sticking it high just inside the far right post to make it 4-0. She almost had a hat trick with four minutes left in the game, but her high attempt was a nicely blocked by Vogel.
Kristina Hillmann finally put Germany on the board in the 60th minute with a deflection but it was too little too late as the final score ended 4-1.
This match was a milestone for Michelle Vittese as she celebrated her 100th cap for USA.
Once again an excellent performance by Team USA! The Americans will take on South Africa in the last pool B match for both on Tuesday. South Africa lost to China 4-3 and are in the fifth place with 3 points. Argentina beat Enland 2-1 on the last minute penaty corner goal by Carla Rebecchi and will face China on the last day of pool play. The Chinese are in third place with 7 points while Argentina and USA both have 10 points but the American lead pool B on goal differential.
If the current form holds true as it is expected to, USA will face Australia in one semifinal while Argentina will go against the Netherlands in the other semifinal.
Fieldhockey.com
Undefeated Pool Play Persists for Team USA by Securing a Victory Over Germany
The U.S. Women’s National Team wins 4-1 against Germany
THE HAGUE, Netherlands – The U.S. Women’s National Team developed superior game flow to come through with a win in their fourth 2014 Rabobank Hockey World Cup match against competitors Germany. The red, white and blue solidified a final score of 4-1 to remain undefeated in pool play.
“Germany came out strong to start,” said U.S. Women’s Head Coach Craig Parnham. “We got through difficult moments and battled hard to stay in the game. We were able to open up the match in the second half and are pleased with today’s outcome.”
The United States met Germany, who possesses a World Ranking of 6th, mid-afternoon in Greenfields Stadium. From the umpire’s signal, both national teams launched full force off of the line embracing the challenge that each game only increases with importance as vital tournament points are at stake. Germany’s attack presence developed early with long leading runs into their attack end. Despite rapid fire drives on goal, USA goalkeeper Jackie Kintzer (Robesonia, Pa.) and her barrier defensive line weathered the storm to keep Germany scoreless in the first half. Close to rounding out the first initial 35 minutes of hockey, USA's midfielder Katelyn Falgowski (Landenberg, Pa.) anticipated a pass to cut off Germany’s forward movement and send the ball up the pitch. Kathleen Sharkey (Moosic, Pa.) extended her reach to punch the ball into the backboard in the 33rd minute for a halftime report of 1-0.
“Our switch on attack in the second half really came from our willingness and desire to continue to go forward in this tournament,” said USA midfielder Katie O'Donnell (Blue Bell, Pa.). “Sometimes physical switches need to be made but for us, today, this switch was mental and I’m really proud of us that we were able to rise to the occasion.”
With every energized touch and interception over their opposition, the United States grew into their established confidence to change gears in the second half. During the 39th minute mark, an attack penalty corner was awarded to the USA where Caroline Nichols (Virginia Beach, Va.) sent a sizzling sweep from the top of the circle to change the score, 2-0. The United States hit their stride breaking through Germany’s high-held pressure when USA’s Katie Reinprecht (Perkasie, Pa.) ripped a rocketed ball into the left corner furthering Team USA’s lead. Sharkey stole a ball mid-pass from Germany and released a flawless back-handed shot to tack another United States’ goal. The intensity didn’t dip as Germany drove on to their attacking end. Germany’s Kristina Hillmann capitalized off of quick passes for their lone match goal, however it was not enough. The United States recorded another win in the books with a score of 4-1.
The World Cup started for Team USA with competition against Great Britain where the red, white and blue won 4-1. The team then went onto tie Argentina 2-2. China proved to be another hard-fought battle but the United States prevailed 5-0. The USA will contend next against South Africa on Tuesday, June 10 at 8:30 a.m. EST.
USFHA media release
Vittese Celebrates 100th Cap in the World Cup Arena
Cherry Hill, N.J. native and 2012 Olympian Michelle Vittese captured her 100th cap in today’s match against Germany. Vittese’s quick skills and aggressive front-line attack tested the German defense throughout the match.
Vittese redshirted her senior season at the University of Virginia in order to train in the hopes of being selected to the U.S. Women’s National Team. Her dedication paid off as she was named a member of the squad in 2011. Vittese was a crucial member of the 2011 Pan Am Cup gold medal squad. From the first time Vittese has stepped onto the pitch wearing the U.S. National Team jersey to her 100th cap in Holland, she recognizes the journey she and the team has been on.
“I started off in a place where I was very eager to learn and it’s tough to keep everything in perspective and focus on the process when things get hard,” said Vittese. “I think at the end of the day, it’s the team that matters most. There’s an unbelievable energy that comes from being a part of this team. The hard work really does pay off. “
After battling through a knee injury in late 2013, Vittese was named to the 2014 Champions Challenge squad who captured gold and a ticket to the 2016 Champions Trophy. Thus far, Vittese’s explosive attack style has been a key to Team USA’s success at the World Cup.
USFHA media release
Las Leonas inflict cruel defeat on England
England's Susannah Townsend in action against Argentina at the Rabobank 2014 World Cup
England Head Coach Jason Lee said he was “very proud” of his team after he’d watched a much improved performance end in yet more disappointment and another defeat. England pushed world number two side Argentina all the way to the wire, but agonisingly conceded a goal from a penalty corner after the full-time hooter had sounded. Still without a point at the Rabobank World Cup England sit rooted to the bottom of Pool B.
The result means that Argentina have all but booked their place in the World Cup Semi-Finals alongside Pool B opponents the USA who had beaten Germany 4-1 earlier in the day - statistically China can still qualify, but they would need to thrash defending champions Argentina and hope that South Africa inflict a heavy defeat on the USA on Tuesday. Meanwhile host nation the Netherlands secured their place in the final four after a 2-0 victory over Australia last night.
Speaking after the game goal scorer Alex Danson said: “We’re devastated to lose it right at the end, but we’re proud of our performance. We gave everything we possibly could for one another and our country, and we fought and fought."
“[The World Cup has] been tough – it’s been like living a nightmare, but we are professional every day and we’ve given our best. We’re proud to play for our country, and when we step on the turf that’s all we think about, and we will regroup and get better. This is the toughest learning curve we’ll ever have but it’ll make us better and stronger, and we’ll come back fighting as a team.”
The first half saw England and Argentina share the spoils with a goal apiece. England’s Alex Danson scored her first goal of the tournament in the seventh minute as she reacted first to a loose ball from a penalty corner, sweeping it into an empty goal. The lead lasted until the 27th minute when good pressure from Argentina resulted in Delfina Merino getting the equaliser to take the sides into the break at 1-1.
England showed far more of what they are about in this match and had several chances in the second half to go ahead; Danson came close to getting a second and Lily Owsley and Susie Gilbert both caused problems for the Argentinean defence. The sides remained locked at 1-1 across the final half of play until the final minute when England conceded a penalty corner.
After a desperately disappointing week for the team it felt like there might be a cruel twist to the end of the game and sure enough there was. Noel Barrionuevo dragged the ball into the circle, which Kate Richardson-Walsh initially stopped - injuring her hand in the process - and as the rebound was fired back in there was nothing Maddie Hinch in England’s goal could do as Carla Rebecchi, waiting at the far post, pushed the ball home to give her side the victory.
Speaking after the match Head Coach Jason Lee said, "The girls can be very proud of how they played today. At the start of this tournament we’d guessed this game against Argentina would be a tight one as we’d both be trying to head towards the semi finals. Of course it’s extremely disappointing that’s not the case, but it felt like there was more on the line today. The pride of the girls and in terms of who they are and the team they can be was also on the line. They’ve struggled to show it in this tournament but today they showed they are good hockey players and they can be a great team.”
“Some small things haven’t worked in our favour and our confidence has been bashed on a couple of occasions. It feels like we’re due a heap of luck. It’s unfortunate because we deserved more than a defeat today. We can go forwards to the next game and the game after that with more pride because we’ve shown that we can be a good side.”
On dealing with the disappointment: “There’s as much pressure when you’re down at the bottom as there can be at the top. We’ve still got a lot to lose in terms of pride and self-esteem. The girls need to have some pride about who they are. They will think they have to do better and there will be plenty of suggestions on how we can achieve that, but this team certainly has a future.”
England women’s final Pool B match is against Germany on Tuesday at 1500 (BST). England’s men play against Belgium in a must win game tomorrow at 1845 (BST).
ENGLAND 1 (1)
Alex Danson 7 (PC)
ARGENTINA 2 (1)
Delfina Merino 27 (FG)
Carla Rebecchi 70+ (PC)
England Hockey Board Media release
Alex Danson 'devastated' at England's Hockey World Cup defeat
ENGLAND women crashed to their fourth reversal in a 2-1 defeat against defending champions Argentina at the Rabobank World Cup in The Hague.
Alex Danson was proud of England's performance[GETTY]
Carla Rebecchi’s winner came after the final hooter from a repeat of their only penalty corner, leaving England pointless at the foot of their group and in danger of their worst World Cup finish.
Alex Danson scored from a close-range strike in the seventh minute before Delfina Merino equalised after 27 minutes.
Danson said: “We’re devastated at the result but proud of how we played.”
Coach Jason Lee said: “This was the worst possible experience but this side has a future.”
England’s men meet Belgium today, needing victory to claim their semi-final place.
Daily Express
On-song Holland beat SA hockey men by six goals
JONATHAN COOK in The Hague
The chanting, singing, Mexican wave-riding home fans, dressed almost as one in orange at a jam-packed Kyocera Stadium, inspired unbeaten world number three Holland to a 7-1 victory over world number 12 South Africa in Group B of Hockey World Cup 2014 in The Hague Sunday night after the on-song Dutchmen had led 4-0 at half-time.
SA got a standing ovation from the crowd for their spirited effort, despite the defeat.
The Oranje’s came from Seve van Ass, Valentin Verga, Jeroen Hertzberger, Robbert Kemperman (2), Biller Bakker and Sander Baart while SA netted a penalty corner via the stick of Justin Reid-Ross.
The Oranje are in irresistible form in this World Cup and Seve van Ass opened the scoring in the fourth minute when he breached the goalline from close range.
After SA had mounted some promising attacks classy Valentin Verga made inroads through the right channel before nailing his shot past goalkeeper Rassie Pieterse for The Oranje to go 2-0 up in the 11th minute.
The Group B log leaders continued the pressure in front of their adoring fans but it was Taine Paton of SA who had the Dutch defence on the alert before Oranje captain Robert van der Horst tested Pieterse with a sizzling (reverse-stick) tomahawk blast.
The first penalty corner came in the 12th minute and Jeroen Hertzberger’s option to go low paid off for the Dutch to go 3-0 up. While SA were struggling to string a series of passes together, Holland were finding their target men in ample space and Wouter Jolie’s tomahawk screamer smashed into the woodwork and stayed out.
Holland made it 4-0 in the 33rd minute through Robbert Kemperman’s faultless strike. The teams turned round with the host nation four goals up and three minutes after the re-start (38th minute) Kemperman got his brace with a stunning shot that bulged the net, the Dutch going 5-0 up.
SA striker Lloyd Norris-Jones broke into the strike zone shortly after but couldn’t make contact while in the 41st Billy Bakker made it 6-0 with another brilliant Dutch strike. Pierre de Voux got in a shot at the other end and umpire Raghu Prasad of India awarded South Africa a PC but the decision was overturned after a Dutch referral to the video umpire.
In the 47th SA captain Austin Smith, showing excellent pace and ball control, broke into the strike zone and his snapshot was stopped by keeper Jaap Stockmann.
In the final quarter Pieterse made five fine saves from PCs and open play before Lloyd Norris-Jones forced a save from replacement keeper Pirmin Blaak. With 12 left Jonty Robinson won a PC for SA and the outcome was a brilliant stop by Blaak from Rhett Halkett’s well-placed shot.
In the 60th minute Ignatius Malgraff’s close control earned SA’s second PC and Justin Reid-Ross’s rocket drag-flick threatened to break the back of the net, the African champions had pulled one back (6-1). But Sander Baart restored Holland’s five-goal margin in the 65th when he broke into the strike zone from the left channel and let rip past Pieterse (7-1).
Reid-Ross came close from field play at the death but at the final whistle the score remained 7-1 to Holland.
Bottom-placed SA play second-placed Argentina in their fifth and final Group B match at 10.30am Tuesday.
MEN’S LOGS
(All played 4, goal difference, points)
Group A: 1 Australia 14GD 12pts; 2 Belgium 6GD 9pts; 3 England -2GD 7pts; 4 India -1GD 4pts; 5 Spain -6GD 2pts; 6 Malaysia -11GD 0pts.
Group B: 1 Holland 10GD 12pts; 2 Argentina 6GD 9pts; 3 Germany 4GD 6pts; 4 New Zealand 2GD 6pts; 5 South Korea -7GD 1pt; 6 South Africa -15GD 1pt.
SA Hockey Association media release
Investec SA hockey women edged out in seven-goal thriller
JONATHAN COOK in The Hague
World number seven China beat the world’s 11th-ranked Investec South Africa women’s hockey team 4-3 in a heart-stopping World Cup Group B match here Sunday after the score was 2-0 to the Asians at half-time.
On balance SA could have won the match, but it was not to be.
In the fifth minute the Chinese forwards found a way through and their second penalty corner saw keeper Anelle van Deventer make a fine reflex save but the ball somehow dribbled over the goalline from Mengrong Wu and it was 1-0 after six minutes.
Nicolene Terblanche got in for in a shot at the other end before Dirkie Chamberlain’s effort forced SA’s first PC but Pietie Coetzee’s conventional beat flashed past the post. In the 11th another chance came SA’s way but Chamberlain’s great ball from the right evaded sticks when a goal seemed almost certain.
Coetzee then made a superb tackle as did left half Quanita Bobbs to keep the tricky Chinese attackers from making goalshots. The pace continued unabated and a Damons deflection looped over the crossbar.
Disaster struck SA in the 125th when a defensive lapse let in Meiyu Liang and her pass to Wu was duly converted (2-0).
Lisa Deetlefs’ PC slapshot was blocked by a Chinese defender and then it was the fast-breaking Chinese to win two consecutive PCs, the first stopped on the line by captain Marsha Cox, the second saved by the keeper.
A great counter resulted in SA earning another PC and Coetzee’s drag-flick was palmed away by keeper Dongxiao Li. SA made several more strike-zone entries until three consecutive PCs went their way following excellent build-up, but the Chinese survived.
With two minutes left Damons’ extreme pace outflanked the China defence but her superb flat cross at full stretch from the right wing found no SA attackers on hand to deflect home.
Turning around 2-0 down, SA had a mountain to climb in keeping their chance of going into third place in Group B alive, with one round still to play.
Sanani Mangisa had replaced Van Deventer in goal and SA started well, making several strike zone entries and getting in a couple of shots, and finally there was joy in the 42nd minute for SA when Tarryn Bright’s pinpoint pass found Kelly Madsen who made no mistake (2-1).
SA continued the pressure but it was China who broke down the left to set up Wang Na for a superb strike and the Asians had restored their two-goal cushion after 53 minutes. (3-1).
With 11 minutes left the stats reflected that SA had dominated the game and six PCs to four was just one in the African champions’ favour.
Coston hit the post from field play with nine left and got her goal when she tapped-in in the 62nd minute following Kathleen Taylor’s shot for the score to go to 3-2.
An on-fire SA then forced a PC in the 66th minute (four minutes left) and world record goalscorer Coetzee made it 3-3 for her 281st goal in her 285th Test match.
But the joy was short-lived as Mengyu Wang made the score 4-3 with a pinpoint PC strike in the 68th for the 4-3 final score to China.
SA appealed for a PC with 45 seconds left but to no avail.
Now SA need to beat log leaders the USA in their final Group B match at 2.30pm Tuesday and hope that bottom-placed England overcome Germany’s challenge for the South Africans to finish fourth in the Group and have a shot at an unprecedented seventh place in the classification matches.
WOMEN’S LOGS
(All played 4, goal difference, points)
Group A: 1 Holland 13GD 12pts; 2 Australia 1GD 9pts; 3 South Korea 2GD 7pts; 4 New Zealand 1GD 6pts; 5 Japan -9GD 1pt; 6 Belgium -8GD 0pts.
Group B: 1 USA 9GD 10pts; 2 Argentina 7GD 10pts; 3 China -1GD 7pts, Germany -4GD 4pts; 5 South Africa -3GD 3pts; 6 England -8GD 0pts.
SA Hockey Association media release
Olympic champions Germany defeat New Zealand at hockey World Cup
Germany booked their second win in pool B at the Hockey World Cup in The Hague thanks to a 5-3 victory over New Zealand to keep their chances open to qualify for the semi-finals.
Florian Fuchs opened the scoring after 103 seconds when converting a long pass coming from Linus Butt. Christopher Zeller could have doubled the lead for the Olympic champions in the middle of the second half but his penalty stroke attempt went wide.
However, Martin Zwicker scored from a solo run to extend the lead to 2-0. The Black Sticks struck back with an Andy Hayward penalty corner goal before Christopher Zeller scored from a penalty corner to lift the score to 3-1 at halftime.
Goals from Zwicker and Benedikt Furk secured a convincing 5-1 lead before Andy Hayward added two more penalty corners goals in the last minutes of the match to shorten the score to 5-3.
Later today, Korea take on Argentina with South Africa facing host nation The Netherlands in the men’s competition.
The Hindu
Germany dent semi final hopes for Black Sticks Men
Photo: Dirk Markgraf, www.265-images.com
The Black Sticks Men’s road to the semi finals has become harder after being defeated 5-3 by Germany at the Hockey World Cup in The Hague.
After mixed results earlier in the tournament, Germany hit top form today to join New Zealand on two wins and two losses and leapfrog the Kiwis on goal differential.
For the Black Sticks, the loss leaves them on six points in Pool B and means they now must beat the Netherlands on Wednesday morning (NZ time) and rely on other results to fall in their favour to have a chance of progressing to the semi finals.
Defender Andy Hayward scored a hat-trick for the second time at the tournament from penalty corners, flicking all three hard and low into the backboard.
Head coach Colin Batch said Germany got off to a fast start and it was difficult to respond after trailing by two goals at halftime.
“I think Germany got off to the start they wanted and scored early. We hung in there for some time and generated opportunities, but when you’re doing that you also need to take care of your defence and we got exposed there a few times,” he said.
“In the second half they took the game away from us but I’m very pleased with the fight back of the guys in the final 15 minutes.
“We scored two late goals and that’s something we are building into the team is that we never give up and there was evidence of that today but we still need to play for 70 minutes.”
Germany were off to a good start against the Black Sticks, Florian Fuchs catching the Kiwi defenders off-guard with a shot over the head of Devon Manchester into the top of the net in just the second minute of the game.
Midway through the first half the Germans went up 2-0 after Christopher Zeller went on a solo run into the circle and flicked past Manchester’s right shoulder.
The Black Sticks pulled one back two minutes out from the break thanks to a trademark Andy Hayward drag flick into the bottom left corner.
But Germany weren’t done and immediately earner a penalty corner at the other end where Zeller flicked in his second goal of the match.
Germany continued the momentum in the second half and added two further goals through Martin Zwicker and Benedict Furk.
Hayward then sent two late penalty corner drag flicks into the back of the goal inside the final five minutes.
In other men’s Pool B games today, Korea face off against Argentina before the Netherlands close out the day against South Africa.
Meanwhile, the Black Sticks Women face a must-win trans-Tasman battle against Australia in their final pool game at 8.30pm on Monday night (NZ time), live on SKY Sport 3. A win would likely secure their place in the semi finals.
BLACK STICKS 3: (Andy Hayward 3)
GERMANY 5: (Christopher Zeller 2, Florian Fuchs, Martin Zwicker, Benedict Furk)
Halftime: Germany 3-1
Hockey New Zealand Media release
Germany beat New Zealand 5-3 at hockey World Cup
AMSTERDAM: Andy Hayward scored a hat-trick for New Zealand, but it wasn't enough as Germany prevailed 5-3 in a fast-paced match at the men's field hockey World Cup on Sunday.
New Zealand's loss leaves Argentina and the Netherlands in strong position to claim the two semifinals spots in Group B.
Germany went ahead 2-0 on an early goal by Florian Fuchs and a strike by Martin Zwicker - his first of two - on a run through the New Zealand defense.
Hayward scored his first in the 33rd minute, but Germany responded before the half and then always led by at least two goals. Hayward's other goals on penalty corners proved too little, too late.
In the women's draw Sunday, the US played Germany later.
The Times of India
Black Sticks lose match to Germany 5-3
MATT RICHENS
The New Zealand men's chances of making the medal round of hockey's World Cup are all but gone after being humbled by Germany.
The struggling Germans used the pool game to find form, completely outplaying the Black Sticks on both attack and defence in the 5-3 win, though two late goals to Andy Hayward completed his second hat-trick of the tournament and gave the scoreboard respectability.
A highly-motivated German side came out firing against New Zealand in The Hague tonight to reinvigorate their own playoff chances and effectively end the Black Sticks'.
The Germans have been the story of the World Cup, especially the fact the world's No 2 side had lost two games in a row and failed to score in either of them.
So they were expected to come out hot against New Zealand and they did exactly that.
The desperate Germans scored a screaming opener after just 90 seconds.
A cross into the New Zealand goal circle easily found Florian Fuchs who turned and powerfully shot into Devon Manchester's goal off the crossbar.
The Germans dominated the first half, but for most of the spell failed to extend their lead.
They did earn a penalty stroke after an Hayward tackle was ruled illegal, but the experienced Christopher Zeller fired the stroke high, wide and not very handsome.
A defensive lapse in the 31st minute allowed Martin Zwicker to waltz into the New Zealand circle and he calmly - and too easily - added a second.
That could have been the goal which broke New Zealand's spirit; they'd stayed in touch on the scoreboard despite being run ragged and the Germans second goal could have opened the floodgates.
But just seconds later New Zealand got on the scoreboard through a Hayward dragflick.
It seemed like the perfect end to the first half for the Black Sticks, but they immediately gave up a penalty corner and Zeller made up for his stroke miss with a pin-point dragflick.
Five minutes into the second half Zwicker was credited with his second goal though it came off New Zealander Steve Edwards.
The Germans added a fifth goal in the last quarter through Benedikt Furk while New Zealand continued to struggle to put the Germans under any pressure.
Hayward scored his second and third of the match from penalty corners taking his tally for the tournament to six, though it was too little too late for the Black Sticks.
New Zealand, the world No 6 men's team, opened the tournament with wins over Korea and South Africa, but their surprise 3-1 loss to Argentina on Saturday morning and tonight's loss, mean they now need to thump the world No 3 Dutch side at home and hope a number of other results go their way.
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Germany 5 (Martin Zwicker 2, Florian Fuchs, Christopher Zeller, Benedikt Furk)
New Zealand 3 (Andy Hayward 3)
HT: 3-1
Stuff
NZ lose to Germany and face Netherlands
New Zealand's hopes of making the semifinals in the men's World Cup nosedived in The Hague.
A 5-3 loss to Olympic champions Germany leaves New Zealand having to beat hosts and world No 3 the Netherlands, who lead pool B, in their final game early on Wednesday and hope other results go their way.
World No 2 Germany had not been impressive during the cup, losing their two previous games to Argentina and the Netherlands 1-0. However they dominated large chunks of last night's match, rediscovering strong, assertive form and were well worth the win.
All three Black Sticks goals came from fine penalty corner strikes by defender Andy Hayward, his second hat trick of the cup, two coming in the last four minutes to improve the result on the scoreboard.
Germany began well, Florian Fuchs smashing a fierce shot over goalkeeper Devon Manchester and into the goal off the underside of the crossbar.
New Zealand, ranked sixth, had scoring opportunities, but both midfielder Steve Edwards and striker Hugo Inglis were guilty of squandering opportunities.
Martin Zwicker doubled Germany's lead four minutes from halftime helped by soft defending, then in a hectic two minutes, Hayward got his first goal but Christopher Zeller responded with a penalty corner goal in the last movement of the half.
That was a killer for New Zealand, who then conceded further goals to Zwicker and Benedikt Furk (crrt) before Hayward's late double, which pushed him to the top of the scoring chart at the cup.
The women's Black Sticks, ranked fifth, play fourth-ranked Australia tonight (crrt) and must win to have a chance of advancing to the last four.
Their 4-1 win over Japan yesterday, with a brace from midfielder Anita Punt and one each to Sophie Cocks and Katie Glynn, left them level on goal difference with the Australians but they lost midfielder Rose Keddell to a broken thumb.
The New Zealand Herald
Kiwis make the records in World Cup
By B.G.Joshi
1: Hat tricks of Hat tricks
Andrew Hayward (Caps 173, Goals 70) playing since 2007 have netted 3 hat tricks in World Cup.
He equaled the records of great Tanvir Dar of Pakistan, who had scored 3 hat tricks, 2(one each vs. Australia and Netherlands) in 1971, 1(vs. Argentina) in 1973.
In 2010 Andrew netted the hat trick against South Africa for 9th place play off, score were 4-4 in full time, dead lock continue in extra time, Kiwis won the match in tie breaker by 5-4. He scored again in 5-0 triumph vs. same opponent on June 3, 2014.
Andrew also wrote history by scoring first ever hat trick in World Cup against giant Germany on June 8, 2014. However Kiwis lost the match by 3-5.
2: Fastest Goal in World Cup
Steve Edwards(Caps 182, Goals 17) scored in 11 seconds vs. South Korea in 2014 at Hague broke the record of Pol Amat (Spain) scored in 18 seconds vs. South Korea in 2010 at New Delhi World Cup.
Fieldhockey.com
Argentina's men stay on semifinal course in World Cup
THE HAGUE: Penalty corner specialist Gonzalo Peillat's three-goal burst kept Argentina on course for making the semifinals of the men's hockey World Cup with a resounding 5-0 victory over Asian champions South Korea at the Kyocera Stadium here today.
Logging nine points from four matches, Argentina stayed ahead of Olympic champions Germany, who are in danger of failing to make the semifinals only for the second time in World Cup history.
Peillat converted two early penalty corners to give Argentina a two-goal lead by the seventh minute. Lucas Vila then scored a field goal, before Peillat returned for his third goal in the 20th minute that gave the Argentines a 4-0 lead at half-time.
Guillermo Schickendantz rounded off Argentina's scoring midway in the second session with an open play strike. Two-time champions Germany today defeated New Zealand 5-3 for their second win in four Group B outings, giving them six points in four games. But the lone-goal losses to hosts The Netherlands and Argentina have pushed two-time champions Germany to the brink.
Until now, it was only in the first World Cup in 1971 that Germany did not feature in the semifinals.
The Netherlands have nine points from three successive wins and will play South Africa later tonight. Even a draw will take three-time World Cup winners The Netherlands to the semifinals.
Martin Zwicker scored twice for Germany today, while Florin Fuchs, Christopher Zelller and Benedikt Furk contributed a goal each.
Zellar could have added another goal, but missed a penalty stroke.
Andy Hayward scored a hat-trick for New Zealand with his last two goals coming in the last four minutes of the match.
The Times of India
Three-star Peillat helps Argentina rout Korea 5-0
THE HAGUE: A stunning hat-trick from Gonzalo Peillat in the first 19 minutes of Argentina's match against South Korea and an innovative second half goal sealed Argentina's status as serious medal contenders in the Rabobank Hockey World Cup here on Sunday. Argentina have ripped up the rule books in this tournament. Coach Carlos Retegui is doing the seemingly impossible job of guiding both the men's and women's teams to the semi-finals and the men come to this tournament with very little international match-play under their belts. Add in the small matter of an 11th-place FIH World Ranking and a classic tale of success against all the odds is beginning to unfold.
Argentina's 5-0 victory over South Korea has all but booked but their place in the semi-finals, just a victory over South Africa stands between Los Leones and a match against one of Australia, Belgium or England. The story of this match was dominated by the penalty corner drag-flicks of Gonzalo Peillat. His first, on four minutes, was as perfect as it is possible to get. The powerful shot entered the net just under the crossbar and there was nothing the goalkeeper Lee Myungho could do about it. With his team working as one to win more opportunities, it was just three minutes later that Peillat was able to score his second. This one shot in at mid-height - another unstoppable rocket of a goal.
Lucas Vila (12') scored the third goal for Argentina, picking up a loose ball and edging it past Lee Myungho to effectively kill off the Korean challenge. But Korea's traumatic start to the match was not yet over. Peillat (20') scored his third goal following more great building work from Lucas Vila in the circle. It was not all one-way traffic and Los Leones' 'keeper Juan Vivaldi was called upon to make saves from Kim Youngjin and then an even better, close-range attempt from Jung Manjae. But for most of the first half, it was the surging runs of the blue and white shirts that looked most likely to yield goals.
A goalkeeper change for Korea saw Kim Jaehyeon take his place between the posts, and it might have been his presence that stopped Peillat's flow as the dart-flick specialist missed his fourth penalty corner, the ball skimming harmlessly past the post. Korea's best chance of the match came in first few minutes of the second half, Jang Jonghyun passing in front of Vivaldi, but Hyun Hyesung was just a tantalising few millimetres from connecting with the ball. That scare over it was back to business for Argentina. Agustin Mazzilli's strike was nearly one go the goals of the tournament. Mazzilli let fly with a reverse stick shot from the left-hand side of the circle, and it looked as if the ball would just fly over the crossbar, when Guillermo Schickendantz (54) reached out his stick and angled the ball down into the circle.
Korea's last chance of a consolation goal came in the 58th minute when You Hyosik found himself unmarked in the circle. His shot was top quality, but the save by Vivaldi can only be described as world class. This was Vivaldi's last action as he was replaced by Agustin Abratte. Gonzalo's hat-trick is his second of the tournament, equalling the two hat-tricks of Razie And Rahim and moving Peillat to the top of the goal scoring table.
The Daily Times
Argies on the verge to make semis
Argentina's Gonzalo Pelliat (centre) celebrates with his team-mates after scoring against South Korea in their Group B match at The Hague on Sunday. Argentina won 5-0. - EPA
THE HAGUE: Pan American champions Argentina are just one point away from qualifying for the semi-finals of the World Cup for the first time.
The South Americans sent South Korea crashing to a 5-0 defeat at the Kyocera Stadium on Sunday in Group B to take a big step towards the last four. They now lead the group with nine points, having a better goal difference than second-placed Holland who played winless South Africa later in the day.
Argentina, whose best finish was sixth in 1986 and 2002, are heavily favoured to beat South Africa in their last match on Tuesday to send Olympic champions Germany out of the semi-finals.
Gonzalo Pelliat, who netted all the goals in the 3-1 win over New Zealand on Saturday, scored another hat-trick on Sunday. He was on target in the fourth, seventh and 20th minutes. Lucas Villa (12th) and Guillermo Schickendantz (54) were the other scorers.
Earlier, Germany defeated New Zealand 5-3 to keep their slim semi-final hopes alive. The Germans have six points to move up to third in the six-team standings.
Florian Fuchs started the ball rolling for Germany with a second-minute goal. Martin Zwicker added the second in the 31st minute but the Kiwis managed to reduce the deficit in the through Andy Hayward in the 34th minute. A minute later, Christopher Zeller gave Germany a 3-1 first-half lead.
After the breather, Zwicker (40th) and Benedikt Furk (57th) added two more goals. The Kiwis fought on and were rewarded with two goals in the 67th and 70th minutes through Hayward.
German coach Markus Weise was upset to see his team concede two late goals.
“That’s something that we must look into. But I am pleased that we put our chances away. That might change our momentum,” said Weise.
The Star of Malaysia
Kookas target top spot
Australian men looking to seal top spot in Pool A and continue upward trajectory
While the Kookaburras secured qualification for the World Cup semi-finals on Saturday with a 5-0 victory over England, their match with India on Monday will carry with it plenty of meaning against a country that for many truly represents hockey’s rich history.
Australia and India have strong hockey ties and Coach Ric Charlesworth, who has coached in India, will be determined to continue the forward momentum that has seen the Kookaburras put in a string of improved performances in The Hague.
Still to be confirmed is Australia’s final position in the pool. Sitting three points clear of Belgium and with a significantly superior goal difference, it’s still mathematically possible for the Kookaburras to miss out on top spot.
Victory or a draw will confirm they head into the semi-finals as Pool A winners while even defeat would see them progress as winners so long as Belgium don’t beat England by a significant margin.
There is plenty at stake for eighth-ranked India, coached by Australian Terry Walsh. Also enjoying improving form as the tournament has progressed, results on Monday will determine whether they go forward into the 5th/6th place playoff, 7th/8th or 9th/10th.
They suffered late heartbreak in their first two games at the World Cup, losing 3-2 to Belgium and 2-1 to England with the winning goals in each of those matches coming in the final minute. A 1-1 draw with Spain was followed up with a 3-2 win over Malaysia on Saturday, giving them a chance of leapfrogging England should they lose to Belgium.
Australia has the upper hand historically. In their last four meetings going back to the 2012 Champions Trophy in Melbourne, the Kookaburras have won 7-2 (World League Finals), 5-1 (World League Semi-Finals), 4-3 (Azlan Shah Cup 2013) and 3-0 (Champions Trophy 2012). India’s last victory over Australia came in May 2010 courtesy of a 4-3 win at the Azlan Shah Cup while the pair played out a 1-1 draw at the 2011 edition of that tournament.
Captain Sardar Singh is India’s talisman but watch out for Akashdeep Singh, too. The 19 year old has netted three times at the World from just four shots.
Watch the match live on ABC 2 at 9:00pm in ACT, NSW, QLD, TAS and VIC. Watch on delay in SA, NT and WA at 9:00pm or watch live online at rabobankhockeyworldcup2014.com from 9:00pm AEST/7:00pm AWST.
All Time Australia v India record
AUS wins: 68
IND wins: 17
Draws: 16
World Cup Australia v India record
AUS wins: 5
IND wins: 1
Draws: 1
Pool A W D L GF GA Pts
1. Australia 4 0 0 15 1 12
2. Belgium 3 0 1 15 9 9
3. England 2 1 1 5 7 7
4. India 1 1 2 7 8 4
5. Spain 0 2 2 4 10 2
6. Malaysia 0 0 4 4 15 0
Hockey Australia media release
Crunch time
Hockeyroos' World Cup destiny still in their own hands ahead of Kiwi encounter
The calculation is simple for the Hockeyroos. Their World Cup destiny is still very much in their own hands. Victory over rivals New Zealand on Monday will earn them a place in the semi-finals.
A draw may even be enough to reach the last four but would cause an anxious few hours’ wait to see whether the Netherlands take at least a point against Korea. However, defeat to New Zealand would definitely end the Hockeyroos’ hopes of a medal with goal difference coming into play.
Acknowledging that they are still masters of their own destiny, captain Madonna Blyth says, “That’s how you want it. You want it to be in your own hands and not relying on other results.
“We thought that it might come down to this match and we’ll have to play that style of hockey again [the style played against the Netherlands] if we want to come out and play in the semis.”
Recent history shows how delicately balanced the contest could be. The trans-Tasman rivals have met four times in the past year with the Hockeyroos enjoying the best of the results. But the memory of an opening match defeat to the Kiwis at the 2012 Olympic Games will act as a reminder of what can happen. The Black Sticks also beat the Hockeyroos 3-2 in the Oceania Cup pool phase last October before the Aussie women got their revenge, winning the title for the first time since 2005 on a shoot-out after a 2-2 draw.
Most recently, Australia came out on top, 4-2, at the Hawke’s Bay Festival in New Zealand in April as Georgia Nanscawen, Brooke Peris, Jane Claxton and Jodie Kenny struck. And that result was preceded in December by a 5-1 win on the way to a World League silver medal in Tucuman.
The Black Sticks sit three points behind the Hockeyroos with an equal goal difference of +1. Having held on to beat Belgium 4-3 in their opening match, New Zealand lost 1-0 to Korea and 2-0 to the Netherlands before sealing a 4-1 win over Japan to keep their own semi-final hopes alive.
Look out for Anita Punt. The New Zealander of Dutch descent is renowned for her athleticism and pace, and has competed in international athletics meets in New Zealand in recent years, winning over 100m and 200m. With three goals in the tournament - two from penalty corners - she is equal third in the top scorers charts. Also a danger at penalty corners, keep an eye on Krystal Forgesson who has netted twice from the set piece.
For their part, the Hockeyroos’ won their opening three matches 3-2 against Korea, Japan and Belgium, before putting in a high octane performance against the Dutch, which ultimately finished in a 2-0 defeat. Defender Anna Flanagan, the 2012 World Young Player of the Year, currently tops the goal charts with five goals in her first four matches.
Watch the match live at 6:30pm AEST / 4:30pm AWST via the official tournament website at rababoankhockeyworldcup2014.com and tune in for highlights on ABC 2 from 8:30pm, immediately prior to ABC’s live coverage of the Kookaburras’ clash with India.
All time Australia v New Zealand record
AUS wins: 80
NZL wins: 16
Draws: 10
World Cup Australia v New Zealand record
AUS wins: 1
NZL wins: 0
Draws: 0
Pool A W D L GF GA Pts
1. Netherlands 4 0 0 14 1 12
2. Australia 3 0 1 9 8 9
3. Korea 2 1 1 8 6 7
4. New Zealand 2 0 2 8 7 6
5. Japan 0 1 3 5 14 1
6. Belgium 0 0 4 7 15 0
Hockey Australia media release
Rising stars Belgium stand between England and World Cup semi-final place
A draw would be good enough for Belgium to qualify for the last four, while England need a victory to set up a likely clash with hosts Holland
By Rod Gilmour, The Hague
Last chance: Barry Middleton knows England must improve their level of performance Photo: PA
If England are to progress in the men’s World Cup on Monday evening they will have to overcome a team – Belgium – who have risen from a second-tier European nation to fifth in the world rankings.
A draw would be good enough for Belgium to qualify for the semi-finals, while England need a victory to set up a likely semi-final with hosts Holland. It will be an open, edgy affair and both sides will experience a Kyocera Stadium at full capacity for the first time, with the Dutch women afforded a rare afternoon slot.
The match will be decided on whether England can negate Belgium’s refreshing brand of driving hockey, and their ability to counter attack and score goals. They have racked up 15, level with Australia as the tournament’s top scorers.
So it is little surprise that Marc Lammers, the coach, admitted here that he would be disappointed if Belgium finished fourth.
However, England will also be looking to match their world No4 ranking. If they are able to record their second group stage win, they will also have achieved a last-four berth with the most irrelevant 5-0 defeat against Australia under their belts.
“It comes down to who plays well on the day and who fights in and around both circles, which is where we let ourselves down against Australia,” Barry Middleton, the England captain, said. “We need to make improvements on those things.”
Middleton has impressed with his media commitments alongside Bobby Crutchley, the coach, during the week. Fronting up after England’s previous four games, he has resembled a battle-hardened leader who keeps his emotions in check.
Another rallying call to England’s 18-strong squad is needed this evening. “We are pretty honest and realistic with where we stand. We don’t get too high when we win and we don’t get too low when we lose.
“It’s a long two or three weeks and you try not to get too excited when things are happening. It’s about pulling it all together when it matters. We know what we have to do. We’ve played Belgium enough over the last twelve months to know what to expect and I’m sure they know what to expect from us.”
Meanwhile, the divide between the men’s and women’s squads could not be wider after Jason Lee’s side went agonisingly close to securing their first point before Argentina scored in the dying seconds. The women’s world champions went behind to an early rebound strike from Alex Danson, who notched her first goal of England’s beleaguered World Cup campaign, before Argentina responded in the 27th minute through Delfina Merino.
It was a match with few chances, but England played with far more belief than their previous three games, which left Lee to admit there were “complex” issues surrounding the state of his squad.
However, a deserved draw looked on the cards until Las Leonas were awarded a late short corner. When Carla Rebecchi bundled home through a crowded D, with what proved to be the last touch of the game, she was immediately engulfed by her team-mates. England’s dejection was laid bare once more. It was a heart-wrenching scene as more tears followed and Alex Danson later called the situation “a nightmare”.
Earlier, the United States were rewarded for a superb run of pool results with a likely semi-final qualification. Coached by Craig Parnham, the former GB assistant coach, the US defeated Germany, the European champions, 4-1.
Parnham left the England set-up following the Olympics, bringing with him strength and conditioning coach Dave Hamilton. England Hockey’s loss of the highly-regarded pair was notable when Lee’s side lost to the US in the opening match.
Asked about England’s failure to qualify for the semi-finals, Parnham said: “There a couple of teams here in transition and they are a young group. They have a great spirit in that team and that’s what they need to draw on.”
The Telegraph
Aussies big hurdle for Black Sticks in Cup medal shot
By David Leggat
Anita Punt (left) of the Black Sticks. Photo / APN
Australia stand between New Zealand and their ambition of a World Cup medal in The Hague tonight.
The transtasman rivals clash in their final pool A round robin women's game. Victory by any margin should put NZ into the hockey cup semifinals, the only impediment will be if hosts the Netherlands - top seeds, unbeaten and world No1 - lose to Korea in their last game tonight, which is highly unlikely.
If things go wrong, fifth-ranked New Zealand will reflect bitterly on a 1-0 defeat in their second pool game against the Koreans, a game they had targeted for victory last week.
"That could come back and bite us in the bum," New Zealand coach Mark Hager said of the Korean loss.
Their 4-1 win over Japan yesterday reignited their prospects, with midfield dynamo Anita Punt scoring twice, and strikers Sophie Cocks and Katie Glynn once each in a game the Black Sticks dominated.
Emily Naylor had persistent problems in trapping the ball on a bobbly surface which hamstrung their ambitions for a sizeable win.
As it is, they shared a plus-1 goal difference with the fourth-ranked Australians, who have rattled in nine goals in their last two internationals against the Black Sticks. However, New Zealand certainly won't fear their closest rivals.
Argentina and the United States led pool B before games early today with seven points each.
The New Zealand Herald
Malaysia hope for face-saving win
WORLD CUP: Beating Spain will be a consolation on a disastrous outing
By JUGJET SINGH
Malaysia's goalkeeper S. Kumar and Razie Rahim (right) must play key roles against Spain today. AFP pic
AFTER being left in the cold for 12 years, Malaysia have dished out a pathetic performance in the ongoing World Cup, and their Last Chance Saloon is against Spain today.
Back in 2002 when Kuala Lumpur hosted the World Cup, Malaysia finished eighth among 16 teams, and the best they can achieve at the Hague, Netherlands would be a ninth spot.
That too, provided they beat Spain today, and then win their ninth-10th classification match.
Spain have two points, while Malaysia none after four matches, and a draw would be disastrous as coach K. Dharmaraj's men will have to play in the 11-12th classification.
Malaysia, ranked 13th, justified that spot when they lost 4-0 to Australia, 6-2 to Belgium, 2-0 to England and 3-2 to India.
Out of the four goals scored in four matches, Razie Rahim delivered three off penalty corners while Marhan Jalil scored off a field attempt.
The defenders let in a massive 15 goals, and it could have been doubled if not for the efforts of goalkeeper S. Kumar, who was easily Malaysia's best player in the event.
But with porous defending, and jittery strikers, Kumar's efforts have gone to waste in four matches.
"We tried our best but we lost," said Razie after going down to India.
"We played so well and we really wanted to win (against India). We hope to finally get the three points against Spain," said Razie.
Dharmaraj said expectations were high on the team as they finished second in the Azlan Shah Cup and won bronze in the Champions Challenge 1.
"However, both the tournaments can't be taken as a yardstick as the standard of play in the World Cup is at a much higher level.
"With all the players (except for second goalkeeper Roslan Jamaluddin) playing in their first major tournament, some of them were overawed by the occasion.
"Here, one can't make any mistakes as goals are the punishment even for a miss-trap in the middle of the field as counters are super fast.
"However, I admit that many promising players have failed to perform at the Hague and that's why we are still winless," said Dharmaraj.
Today: Spain v Malaysia (8.30pm).
New Straits Times
Last chance saloon for Malaysia to salvage pride
by S. Ramaguru
The Malaysian fans do not have much to celebrate at the hockey World Cup at The Hague as the national team have lost all four of their matches so far. Their last Group A match is against Spain on Monday. - SS KANESAN/ The Star
THE HAGUE: There will be more pain for Malaysia if they fall to Spain in Sunday’s final Group A clash at the hockey World Cup here in Holland.
Malaysia, last in the group with no points after four matches, need to win the match if they want to realise their target of a 10th placing.
Coach K. Dhamaraj now needs to get the players mentally prepared for the game against Spain as it is a do-or-die battle.
“Spain are also in the same boat as Malaysia. They will end up last if they lose to us.
“Our players are down (after the 3-2 defeat to India on Saturday). We will talk to them and try and get them back on their feet and be prepared for this crunch match as it’s the last match of the group,” said Dharmaraj yesterday.
Australia have qualified for the semi-finals after winning all their four matches in the six-team group. Second-placed Belgium, on nine points, and third-placed England, who have seven points, will meet each other on Sunday for the other spot in the last four.
Fourth-placed India, who have four points, have a monumental task against Australia. If India lose, fifth-placed Spain have the chance to pip them to fourth in the group if they beat Malaysia.
“The India-Australia match will affect the outcome of the group. If India win, then Spain know that they cannot pip them and that may well make it a little easier for us.
“But we are not looking for favours. Our play has been erratic to say the least and we have to go back and stick to our structure.
“There is a need for the players to complement each other. There are some good play and individual performances. But the whole team need to rise and show their true capabilities,” said Dharmaraj.
Malaysia have not played Spain in any recent tournaments. But the Spaniards have several good and experienced players like Edward Tubau, Santi Freixa, Ramon Alegre, Sergi Enrique and goalkeeper Quico Cortes. All of them have more than 100 caps each.
Malaysia, however, can take heart that the Spanish penalty corner conversion rate has not been good. They only managed to convert one of 14 awarded to them.
In contrast, Malaysia were awarded 12 and managed to score three through Mohamed Razie Rahim.
“I think the statistics don’t matter for now. If we defend badly, then they can score. What we need to do is to make sure our chances count.
“If you miss the goals at this level, then winning is a tough task. We have had plenty of chances but our finishing has been bad. We need to overcome that,” added Dharmaraj.
The Star of Malaysia
Have to go all out against Oz
By Rajpal Singh
India got their first win of the tournament and it was a crucial one that will boost their confidence.
Winning against an Asian side is always special and the team’s win over Malaysia means that India will not finish last no matter what happens in the coming days.
The win will also help India in the Asian Games. If these two teams meet in the Asian Games, India will have that mental edge. In the last Asian Games, Malaysia had this edge over us, having beaten us 5-2 in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup earlier that year.
In the semifinal of the Asian Games, they beat us 4-3, making a late comeback. When you have beaten a side in the near past, the belief that you can win stays with you.
The win has also come at the right time as India face Australia in their last pool game. India played good hockey and almost everything clicked. They dominated for most part of the game and played with a lot of confidence, which showed in the way they controlled the ball.
The forwards found their groove — even Lalit Upadhyay looked confident with the ball. SV Sunil, who had been quiet in the previous matches, was creating chances. But just like in the previous matches, too many chances were missed. With the kind of possession they enjoyed and the chances they created, the contest should have been over much before the final hooter. Akashdeep Singh has been the only forward who has had the finishing touch.
A big worry for the Indian coach will be the penalty corner conversion. They have not scored one goal from a penalty corner — the first goal against Malaysia, though technically a penalty-corner goal, cannot be counted as one. Rupinder Pal Singh and VR Raghunath have not at all seemed dangerous. Despite being unsuccessful with the direct effort, why have they not used a variation once?
The team has to resolve this issue, especially if it wants to beat Australia. A win will be a big ask but India have to go all-out and not worry about a huge loss. A draw will not change India’s situation, as Spain will most probably beat Malaysia to climb above us. A win will mean that India can finish in the top-6, assuming Belgium beat England.
The writer is a former India captain
The Tribune
Resurgent India look to halt Aussie juggernaut
THE HAGUE: Buoyed by their triumph over Malaysia, India would face their toughest challenge so far when they take on unbeaten reigning champions Australia in their final preliminary game of the hockey World Cup on Monday.
The Indians bounced back well to beat Malaysia 3-2 after losing back-to-back matches to start with and Sardar Singh's men would draw from the new-found self-belief when they come face to face against the marauding Australians.
"The team is all set to take on Australia tomorrow. Our last match against Malaysia will act as a motivation as we are all looking forward to play the defending champions. There is positivity in the dressing room which will act in our favour on the field," an upbeat Indian captain Sardar said ahead of the tough match.
India currently have four points from as many matches after drawing the game against Spain. Australia have already made the semi-finals with four thumping wins, while India are in the fourth place in Group A.
"India are a young team and we are moving positively. We need to keep belief in our ability to put up a good contest against the best sides in the world," said coach Terry Walsh.
"Our first objective is to ensure we don't allow chances in the closing stages, and we should start taking our chances and play to a plan that we have prepared," he said.
Australia have faced little opposition in their league matches so far. The way they hammered England 5-0 yesterday showed that the team was determined to live up to the promise to present a World Cup victory to their coach Ric Charlesworth, for whom this will be the last World Cup in any capacity.
The Times of India
India ready for defending champions Australia: Sardar Singh
THE HAGUE: The Indian hockey team is geared up to take on defending champions and current World Cup Group A toppers Australia at the Kyocera Stadium on Monday.
With India registering their first win of the tournament against Malaysia on Saturday, they will now be looking forward to putting up an impressive show against the World No. 1 and two-time champions in their fifth and last pool match.
"The team is all set to take on Australia. Our match against Malaysia will act as a motivation as we are all looking forward to play the defending champions. There is positivity in the dressing room which will act in our favour," captain Sardar Singh said.
Meanwhile, the unbeaten Kookaburras will be in their quest of winning their fifth match on the trot.
"We had a good game against Malaysia which has resulted in a morale and confidence boost of the team. Akashdeep Singh is in a good form and is surely to be looked out for in the subsequent matches as well. From our end we will focus on scoring goals and concentrate more on saving the crucial last minute goals of the opponent," chief coach Terry Walsh said.
"Also, we have been poor with penalty corners and are working in the direction. I am sure our world class midfield and an energetic forward line will make us a difficult rival for Australia."
The Times of India
Faizal Saari shows his skills
Interviewing Malaysia's speedy star Faizal Saari
(Photo: Frank Uijlenbroek)
Faizal Saari is approaching 150 caps for Malaysia. During that time he has earned a reputation as a supremely skilful attacker who regularly gets his name on the score-sheet. The 23-year-old has a potent penalty corner drag-flick, although he has yet to get his name on the score-sheet at this World Cup.
This is Faizal's first World Cup: Malaysia last competed in the World Cup in 2002 when it was held on home soil in Kuala Lumpar. On that occasion they finished eighth. This time around, the Speedy Tigers qualified by finishing in fifth place at the Hockey World League Semi-Final in Joho Bahru. The team is likely to be competing for 11th/12th place following three four losses so far in the competition: 4-0 against Australia; 6-2 against Belgium; 2-0 England; and a closely-fought 3-2 against India.
We caught up with Faizal before the team played their fifth pool match against Spain, a match that Malaysia need to win to avoid finishing bottom of the group. The Malaysian sports star was in a talkative, enthusiastic mood, despite the lack of points on the board.
Question: What are your impressions so far of this Hockey World Cup?
FS: It is brilliant, the environment all around the stadium and the hockey park is great and the daily telecast, covering all the action, has been awesome.
Question: What have been your best moments of the World Cup?
FS: Celebrating the goals scored by my team-mates have provided the best moments so far. Of course I want to get on the score-sheet but I am so happy for Razie (Abd Rahim) and Marhan Jalil.
Question: What do you think you and your team are learning as a result of this Hockey World Cup experience?
FS: Malaysia has not participated in a World Cup for such a long time that each match is providing a heap of learning experiences. I think the thing that is most apparent is that there is no such thing as an easy game in this tournament. Even the top-ranked teams are finding that the lower-ranked teams are no pushover. Each team is well-prepared and ready to fight for every point.
Question: Which teams have impressed you and why?
FS: Australia and the Netherlands are by far the most impressive teams here. I think the thing that sets them apart is their ability to maintain a high tempo for the full 70 minutes. Even when the seconds are counting down to the end of the match, and they have a good lead, they still chase every ball and are always looking for ways to create scoring opportunities.
Question: How is hockey viewed in Malaysia?
FS: Hockey is a popular sport in the country and we are expected to produce results every time we play. This can be stressful, but we are privileged to represent our country and it is a responsibility I am glad to shoulder.
Question: What do Malaysia need to do to make the next step up in international hockey?
FS: We need to continue to qualify and participate in major tournaments such as this, if not we will be left behind.
FIH site
The men and women behind the mask
An inside look at the goalkeeping at the Rabobank Hockey World Cup 2014
(Photo: Frank Uijlenbroek)
One standout feature of this year’s Rabobank Hockey World Cup has been the quality of goalkeeping. Whether it was the heroics of Jaap Stockmann to withstand the German onslaught in the final minutes of their tense pool B encounter or the athleticism of Aisling D'hooghe as she saved multiple shots from Kelly Jonker and company when Belgium faced the Netherlands. We catch up with some of the men and women who provide the last line of defence.
When Sally Rutherford left the pitch after her team's 2-0 loss to the world number one team the Netherlands, she was hailed as a hero because of her brave and acrobatic 'keeping. Certainly Rutherford pulled off some miraculous saves as she blocked a Naomi van As shot at point blank range, followed by a diving save from a Maartje Paumen drag flick. "It was non-stop for some of that game," said Rutherford after she had recovered. "The kids on this team were awesome today, they really put themselves on the line. I didn't have time to think, you try to get yourself in the right position but sometimes it is all just down to instinct."
At the other end of the pitch, Joyce Sombroek was having a very different game. During the first 35 minutes she didn't touch the ball and only had to watch two shots fly wide of her post. In the second half she made one easy save, but was almost tricked by a looping shot from Black Sticks Anita Punt, that went over her head, but also over the cross bar.
As goalkeepers you can experience a very different game from your teammates and that calls for very different psychological preparation. "I have to continuously coach my defenders to make sure that I stay tuned into the game," says Soembroek. "By talking through the game with my defenders I keep my mind focused. When the ball is at the other end I can lessen the intensity of my concentration a little, but I continuously move around the circle and the 23."
In terms of preparations the goalkeepers take a very different approach. For some, such as Argentina's Juan Vivaldi, it is all about getting 'pumped up' and ready for action. Other 'keepers take a more cerebral approach. Andrew Charter, the goalkeeper for the Kookaburras explains the goalkeeper mindset further. "While the boys are getting pumped in the changing room and on the pitch before a game, I have to go to the other extreme and make sure I am calm in my mind. I might play some music and sit in a corner just focusing on my breathing and staying calm."
The importance of a good goalkeeping performance is fully appreciated by the field players. Talking after the game between Argentina and New Zealand, which Argentina won 3-1, the hat-trick hero Gonzalo Peillat said: "For us to have the confidence to push forwards and score the goals, we need to have confidence that we will not concede goals. When your 'keeper is having a good day it makes it easier for the rest of the team to perform." This was a sentiment echoed by Robbert Kemperman of the Netherlands. "It was tight in that game (against Germany), but Jaap Stockman was excellent and when you have a top class 'keeper like that, you can play an attacking game."
'Phew, I don't know how he pulled off some of those saves," was Christopher Zeller's assessment of Nicloas Jacobi's performance between the sticks. At one point the 'keeper's game awareness had to be at its very best as a chaotic few minutes in which one player's stick was broken, a member of the opposition was sent off, and play was still going on, meant that in one instance the German 'keeper was talking to his defence, the next he was jamming his helmet back on his head and diving to save a shot from Valentin Verga.
The last word goes to Bobby Crutchley, coach to the England men's team. "We have guys on our team who will make the headlines because they score goals, but if we are going to progress in this tournament, then it will be because George Pinner has had a big tournament. It is the 'keeper and the defenders who provide the foundation for the team to perform."
FIH site
Over-50 Men's Squad Secures First U.S. Masters Victory of World Cup
Today was a great day in the Netherlands for the USA Field Hockey teams. The U.S. Men’s Over-50 squad notched the first ever USA Masters victory as they defeated Egypt. Jeremy Roberts (Beltsville, M.D.), who had sat out the first two games with a broken thumb, found an orthopedic surgeon playing in the tournament who told him to cut off the cast and give it a try. This was great news for the U.S. as Roberts scored the first USA goal.
Egypt played strong defense and the USA could only score once more before half-time. The second half was a different matter, with the USA starting to control the game. Ian Tapsall (Fairfield, Conn.) struck twice and Phil Danaher (Tatamy, Pa.) also slotted two home en route to a 9-0 final result. Warren Prestwich (Baltimore, M.D.) got the shut-out for the USA, with the back line which included Don Warner (Henrico, Va.), John Michalak (Camarillo, Calif.), Peter Jones (Stamford, Conn.), Brian Hope (Blandon, Pa.) and Amjad Zia (Nottingham, ENG) providing good coverage of the Egyptian attacks. The USA midfield took control in the second half, with Ian Wagge (Scottsdale, Az.), Manzar Iqbal (Darien, Conn.), Bob Khosla (Phoenix, Az.), Richard Hayden (Ashburn, Va.) and Andrew Dunning (Renton, UK) starting to combine very well. The forward line of Joost Douwes (Stanwood, Wash.), Brian Spencer (Los Angeles, Calif.), Tapsall, Danaher, Roberts and Clarence Jennelle (Elverson, Pa.) put pressure on the Egyptian defense and took their chances well, especially in the second half. Eric McGinley (Arlington, Va.), after playing well in the first two games, was rested to be ready for the last group game with Wales that will decide if the USA over 50 can reach the quarter finals.
The USA Men's over 50 team rehydrated while watching on a giant TV as the USA women beat Germany 4-1 in Den Haag, coming very close to wrapping up a semi-final berth with one group game still to play. The USA Over-40 Men lost a heartbreaker to Ireland 1-0. The outcome marks their third one goal loss of the tournament, showing how well they have come together as a team, without quite being able to upset one of the masters' teams with much longer playing histories.
The USA Men's Masters Over-40 team put forth another great defensive effort and held Ireland to one goal, but the Americans could not find the back of the net and fell 1-0 for the second game in a row. The Irish were able to convert on a deflection in the circle in the 32nd minute to take the 1-0 lead, the only time that USA Player of the Match Steve Wagner (Philadelphia, Pa.) would be beat all game. That goal stood up at the end of regulation, sending Ireland to the quarterfinals over the USA.
The Americans stunted the Irish attack, as they were only able to get 10 shots on goal; Wagner made nine saves on the day to keep the Americans in the contest. The USA drew two offensive corners as national team player Binh Hoang drew one in the first half and 1996 Olympian Steve Van Randwijck (Amsterdam, NED) drew the second, but the Americans could not convert either opportunity into a goal. The stars and stripes had the run of the play in the second half, needing a goal to equalize, but the Irish goal was not solved.
The loss sends the Americans into the consolation bracket where they are the #2 seed; they return to competition on Tuesday, 10 June.
The USA Masters team members wish to thank USA Field Hockey, USMFHF, STX and TK for their much appreciated support, as well as their families for understanding their passion and desire to compete.
Team USA's O-50 Women took to the pitch to face off against Wales yesterday. The O-50 Women got on the board first with a goal by Christine Couteau (San Jose, Calif.) to score not only the first goal of the game, but also the first goal for the U.S. Over-50 team. USA went into halftime leading 1-0 but the Welch were extremely persistent and were rewarded with a goal to tie the game. The Welch quickly added another to take the lead. With 6 minutes to go USA pulled their goal keeper to add a field player only to have Wales increase their lead. The final was USA 1-4 Wales
The Women’s O-40 played the host country and the atmosphere was electric with tons of excited fans in the stands. The Dutch struck first to take the lead, but the U.S. maintained their structure well and had some good goal scoring chances. Team USA earned a penalty corner and converted on a shot from the top by Jill Reeve (Rumford, R.I.) which was deflected into to the top left corner by Denise Zelenak (Wilmington, Del.). The strong attack of the Dutch was too much for the U.S. and they netted a few more. As the O-50 team, the O-40 pulled the goal keeper but the Dutch capitalized. The final was USA 1-5 Netherlands.
Today, the Over-50 women lost to New Zealand today by the score of 8-0. It was 4-0 at half. The Kiwis had a great penalty corner unit which executed and scored five of their goals on penalty corners.
The Over-40 had a disappointing loss to the Russian team 3-1. Russia scored early in the game to take the lead. They extended their lead to 3-0 before the U.S. answered with a goal of their own. Kerry DeVries (Virginia Beach, Va.) scored the American goal but it wasn't enough to surmount the deficit.
USFHA media release