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All the news for Sunday 12 January 2014

England top Pool A while New Zealand beat home nation

Day 2 at the Hero Hockey World League - Germany and India beaten


England are top of pool A after defeating Germany. (Photo: FIH / Grant Treeby)

England are top of Pool A after they earned a hard-worked 2-1 victory over Olympic champions Germany in their second match at the Hero World League Final. In the second game New Zealand bounced back from yesterday's 6-1 loss leaving host nation India bottom of the group.

England started their game at a great pace, scoring the opening goal in the 4th minute when Tom Carson won possession in the circle. Germany’s goalkeeper Nico Jacobi was left with no chance as Carson turned and whipped in a shot.

Bobby Crutchley, England coach was pleased with his team's performance but warned that there were still many errors to be ironed out. "I am obviously pleased with the win, but our quality dropped when we came under pressure. We should have taken the chance to hurt them when they came at us, as they left spaces."

Despite England taking an early lead, the Olympic champions struck back thanks to Marko Miltkau (11’) stealing the ball from an England defender. England decided to use their video referral in this situation but the goal was confirmed meaning the English team lost their referral at an early stage.

Ashley Jackson (21’) brought the world-ranked number four back ahead when scoring his 50th goal in his England career. Jackson flicked home a penalty corner and will be happy that the ball was deflected highly into the net by Germany’s first runner Tobias Matania.

“I’m not happy with our performance in the first half. I missed the spirit. The second half was much better as we created many chances”, said German coach Markus Weise. Captain Oliver Korn added: “We need to check the video to see what went wrong.”

The crowd in the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium saw England defending well throughout the second half although Germany were constantly pushing hard for an equaliser. Their best opportunity came from a penalty corner which hit the post.

Germany’s Christopher Wesley said: “Maybe we have suffered from yesterday’s 6-1 win over New Zealand. Today we missed 10 to 20 per cent of our performance.”

In the second match, both teams began the game having suffered defeats in the first round of Pool A matches, but it was New Zealand who emerged 3-1 winners.

New Zealand made it clear from the first whistle that they were determined to make up for the previous day's poor showing. The Pool A game was only seconds old when Shea McAleese (1') opened the Black Sticks account. His goal, scored through open play, steadied the team's nerves while the sheer physicality and steadiness of the New Zealand players seemed to rock India's confidence.

India were not without their chances in the first half, but their deft stick work was often let down in the final phase of the game. That said, they won two penalty corners in quick succession but Black Sticks goalkeeper, Devon Manchester, cleared the ball from the circle easily on both occasions.

The second half saw much of the same. India played some quick, inventive hockey, and Chandanda Thimmaiah was unlucky to see his shot fly over the cross bar, but it was New Zealand who again took their chance. A free hit found Stephen Jenness (41') unmarked in the circle and he duly slotted the ball home.

10 minutes later it was Jenness who scored again, and virtually ensuring victory for the Black Sticks over the host nation.

India did not stop playing however, and with just over two minutes left to play Mandeep Singh (68') seized on a loose ball and shot home to the delight of the crowd.

India's coach, Terry Walsh, spoke of his players' loss of confidence over the past two games: "The confidence levels are low and it has to be rebuilt. This environment makes a loss of self confidence even more difficult to deal with. This showed on the pitch. The players were slow, lethargic and made poor decisions. We have started to spiral, and it is my job to deal with that."

His counterpart Colin Batch said: "We are very pleased with the win after the disappointing game against Germany." In the next pool game, New Zealand face England. Batch added: "England are playing quite well at the moment so today's. We want to improve throughout the whole tournament."

India sit at the bottom of Pool A with their final pool match against Olympic champions Germany. New Zealand will face England.

FIH site

Argentina are Lion Kings, while Oranje bounce back

World champions Australia get upset by the Netherlands, Belgium lost to Argentina


The Netherlands celebrate their 1-0 win over Australia at the Hero Hockey World League Final. (Photo: FIH / Frank Uijlenbroek)

In Pool B of the Hero Hockey World League Final, Argentina retain their unbeaten record to top the group and the Netherlands get points on the board.

It was a matter of hockey pride when the Belgian Red Lions took on Los Leones from Argentina. The match see-sawed between the teams but Argentina emerged 3-2 winners and kept their unbeaten record in the tournament while Belgium suffered their second defeat.

Argentina, who upset the Netherlands in yesterday’s opening match, again started well in today’s encounter. But it was Belgian Tom Boon (6’) who opened the scoring when he smashed the ball into the far corner of the goal.

The Pan American champions kept fighting for the equaliser, which soon came courtesy of Pedro Ibarra (11’). On his run towards goal, Ibarra left five Belgium defenders behind to eventually defeat goalie Vincent Vanash with a skilful backhand stroke.

With less than two minutes remaining in the first half top-striker Boon (34’) made another mark when putting Belgium 2-1 ahead. This was his third goal in the competition making him the tournament top scorer.

Argentina levelled the score to 2-2 in the middle of the second half when Matias Paredes (50’) latched onto the ball at the far post to deflect a long pass coming from Juan Martin Lopez into the goal. “We played well but we never defended the lead”, said Belgium coach Mark Lammers.

Argentina held on to their attacking style taking the lead for the first time in the match when Callioni (61’) picked up a flick and managed to lift the ball over the Belgian keeper. Coach Lammers summed up: “Argentina deserved the win because they fought more. This was not a good game for us.”

Tournament top scorer Boon agreed: “We can do much better.” Regarding Monday’s match against the Netherlands Boon, who is currently playing in the Dutch Hoofdklasse,  said: “It’s always nice to play against team mates. It will be a tough game but we have to win if we want to avoid facing Germany in the quarter final.”

Argentine goal scorer Facundo Callioni, attributed his team's success to "hard work" and "a successful press operating all over the field. We played less attacking hockey and really concentrated on pressing our opponents," he said.

Coach Carlos Retegui knows that his team will need to be on the top of their game to counter the attacking power of the Australian team in their third pool B game. "I am a fan of Australia's hockey and it is always an attacking game when we play them."

However, Retegui added that he has spent many hours planning his tactics for each team: "Belgian have one of the best coaches in the game, and we had to think very hard and very strategically about how to beat them. They are one of the most upcoming teams in the world."

In the second Pool B match of the day, the Netherlands bounced back from the previous day's defeat to take three points in a tense match in their second Hero Hockey World League Pool B match. A sole goal from Billy Bakker gave the team in orange a 1-0 victory over Australia.

Much of the match saw both teams playing uncharacteristically cagey hockey, but with the Netherlands still reeling from their defeat at the hands of Argentina, and Australia mindful that the men in orange might be coming back with a vengeance, this was always going to be a tactical encounter.

That said, there was plenty of action on the pitch with both goalkeepers being forced to make important saves and the Netherlands hitting the post twice in the early minutes of the game.

Frustrations with the lack of a breakthrough was obvious when both teams were told to calm down by the match officials.

A series of penalty corners for the world champions drew some great saves from the Netherlands goalkeeper Jaap Stockman, and at the end of the first 35 minutes Australia had marginally enjoyed the better first half.

The second half saw the Netherlands seize their chance just three minutes after the restart. A tremendous piece of skill by Billy Bakker saw him junk through the defence and shoot from a wide angle past goalkeeper Tyler Lovell.

The Netherlands were reduced to 10 men when Bob de Voogd was dismissed for a rash tackle, but the Kookaburras were unable to take advantage and, in fact, it was Lovell who was forced into making a good save from a rising shot.

As the game reached the final stages it was the Olympic silver medallists who created the greater pressure, forcing a fine save from Lovell, but then the dismissal of Seve van Ass meant the Netherlands endured a torrid few minutes of defending. This included two penalty corners with just 90 seconds remaining in the game, both dealt with by Stockmann.

After the game, Netherland's coach Paul van Ass said: 'We defended with our hearts. The qualities of chances was in favour of Australia but in our team everybody fought for every inch."

Ric Charlesworth, the Australian coach said: "We didn’t play as well as we would like for many reasons; our basics were poor but we still made enough chances to win the game and didn’t. We had seven or eight corners. That’s where we’re at, at the moment. You hope that you would play better and better each day but we had the opportunities today but we couldn’t finish and that’s disappointing.”

The Netherlands will play Belgium in the third pool match on Monday, while Australia face Argentina.

FIH site

Crucial ranking points up for grabs at Hero Hockey World League

Movements in FIH World Rankings likely to affect pools for Rabobank Hockey World Cup


Argentina signal their intent to make their mark on the world rankings. (Photo: FIH / Grant Treeby)

Excitement is mounting as eight of the finest teams in the world prepare for Monday's final pool matches in the men’s Hero Hockey World League Final in New Delhi. The event, which marks the end of a sparkling inaugural edition of the Hockey World League, has already thrown up some surprise results in the first two days of competition and there are still many more exciting matches to come between now and next Saturday's final. The teams are not only doing battle for the chance to lift the trophy, but also the opportunity to claim crucial ranking points ahead of this summer’s Rabobank Hockey World Cup in The Hague.

While strong performances in the quest to become the first ever men’s Hockey World League winners is very much the top priority for the teams participating in the event, there is also the very real opportunity for competing nations to improve their respective positions in the FIH World Rankings. With the pools for the Rabobank Hockey World Cup being based on the FIH World Rankings, the importance of this should not be under-estimated. Movement up or down the FIH World Rankings is likely to play a part in determining whether a team will compete in Pool A or Pool B in the Netherlands this summer. 

Olympic champions Germany currently sit top of the FIH World Rankings with 2140 points, ahead of Australia who have 2083 points. As things currently stand, Germany would play in Pool A as the highest ranked team in the tournament, with Australia featuring in Pool B. However, with 400 ranking points up for grabs to the winning team, there is certainly potential for Australia to move into pole position going into the Rabobank Hockey World Cup.

An Australia win and a third place (325 points) or worse finish for Germany would be enough to see the Kookaburras move ahead of the Olympic champions to become the top ranked side in world hockey, giving them huge confidence in their attempt to defend the title they claimed in 2010. More significantly, it would mean that the Aussies will play in World Cup Pool A, where they will face the 4th, 5th, 8th, 9th and 12th highest ranked teams in the event. Germany would then do battle in Pool B, competing against the 3rd, 6th, 7th, 10th and 11th highest ranked teams.

There is plenty of potential for movement further down the table, with England and Belgium also being relatively close in terms of ranking points. New Zealand, India and Argentina all have the potential to move up a notch, depending on how well they perform in New Delhi. Based on their 100 per cent success rate so far in the tournament, Argentina have underlined their ambitions to move up the rankings at an early stage. The current FIH World Rankings (top 13) and the points available at the Hero Hockey World League Final can be found below.

Official confirmation of the changes in the men's FIH World Rankings and the pools for the Rabobank Hockey World Cup will be made after the completion of the HWL Final event. Any changes to the FIH World Rankings will take into account the points earned by each nation at the Hero Hockey World League Final as well as any other unallocated points.

A full match schedule for the stunning showpiece in The Hague being announced in the very near future.

Current FIH World Rankings – Top 13

* Despite having the same number of points, Spain are ranked higher than Pakistan due a higher finishing position in the most recent FIH event.

Points available at Hero Hockey World League Final listed by final ranking

1: 400          
2: 350
3: 325                               
4: 300
5: 280                               
6: 260
7: 240
8: 220

Rabobank Hockey World Cup – Pools information

There will be two pools, each comprising half of the number of the participating teams. The two pools will be composed as followed based on the FIH World Ranking as at the date when the match schedule is agreed.

Pool A: 1, 4, 5, 8, 9, 12
Pool B: 2, 3, 6, 7, 10, 11

About the Hockey World League

The Hockey World League is an action packed competition giving every hockey-playing nation a chance to go all the way to the Hockey World Cup and the Olympics.

Composed of four rounds and played over two years, the schedule alternately coincides with the build-up to the World Cup and to the Olympics, providing more than half of the entry tickets for both. Beyond a mere qualifier, the Hockey World League shines a spotlight on the sport in all corners of the globe, producing exciting and elite level hockey while also providing a strong commercial opportunity for the sport.

Typified by its “Make Your Mark” slogan, the Hockey World League invites every hockey playing nation to take part. It allows even the smallest ones to dream of writing their own chapter in hockey’s history books. It builds heroes as fresh talent bursts onto the scene. Established nations feel the heat as rising superpowers threaten to install a new world order.

FIH site

Argentina record second straight win, Dutch beat Australia

Argentina continued their giant-killing spree and scored a 3-2 come-from-behind win over Belgium, while the Netherlands beat Australia by a solitary goal to register their first victory at the Hero Hockey World League Final at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, here on Saturday.

In the opening match of the day, the 11th ranked Argentines continued from where they left in their last match and stunned world number five Belgium, who slumped to their second consecutive defeat in the eight-nation event.

Argentina, who upset the Netherlands in yesterday’s opening match, made a promising start when Facundo Callioni won the first penalty corner for his side early on but the Les Leones failed to capitalise on the opportunity.

But it was Belgium who opened the scoring in the sixth minute through Tom Boon (6th minute) when he smashed the ball into the far corner of the goal.

Stung by the early goal, Argentina went on the offensive and the Pan American champions restored parity five minutes later through Pedro Ibarra (11th minute), who beat five Belgian defenders behind to score a brilliant field goal past goalie Vincent Vanash.

With less than a minute from the first half, Boon (34th minute) regained Belgium’s lead with a field goal.

Argentina, however, levelled the scores in the middle of the second half when completely unmarked Matias Paredes (50th) latched onto the ball at the far post to deflect home a long pass from Juan Martin Lopez.

Argentina continued their attacking style and took the lead for the first time in the match when Facundopo Callioni (61th) picked up a flick and managed to lift the ball over the Belgian keeper Vanish.

Meanwhile, in the second match of Pool B, a solitary goal from Billy Bakker gave the Netherlands their first win in the event after having lost 2-5 to Argentina on Friday.

It was a tactical contest between Netherlands and Argentina as both the top-ranked teams matched each other well.

However, there was plenty of action on the pitch as both goalkeepers were forced to make important saves to keep their teams alive. The Netherlands, in fact, struck the post twice in the early minutes of the game.

World champions Australia earned a series of penalty corners in the last few minutes of the first half which forced Netherlands goalkeeper Jaap Stockman to make some brilliant saves.

Just three minutes into the second half, the Netherlands took the lead through a brilliant Billy Bakker, who got past the defence and shoot home from a wide angle past goalkeeper Tyler Lovell.

The Netherlands were reduced to 10 men when Bob de Voogd was dismissed for a rash tackle, but the Kookaburras were unable to take advantage.

Australia earned two penalty corners with just 90 minutes from the hooter, but on both occasions Stockmann came to the Netherlands’ rescue.

With two wins out of as many games, Argentina are on top of Pool B with six points with Australia (3) on the second spot followed by the Netherlands (3).

Argentina will face Australia in their last pool match on Monday, while Netherlands will be up against Belgium.

The Hindu

Argentina fight back to beat Belgium in Hockey World League

NEW DELHI: Argentina posted a 3-2 win over Belgium to keep their unbeaten record in the Hockey World League Final on Saturday.

The Belgian team suffered their second defeat of the tournament.

Argentina, who upset the Netherlands in the opening match Friday, started off well against Belgium.

Facundo Callioni won Lions the first penalty corner of the match but they could not capitalise on it.

So it was up to Belgian Tom Boon (6th minute) to open the scoring when he smashed the ball into the far corner of the goal. The battle between the two teams continued with the Pan American champions fighting for the equaliser which soon came courtesy of Pedro Ibarra (11th min). On his run towards goal, Ibarra left five Belgium defenders behind to eventually defeat goalie Vincent Vanash with a skilful backhand stroke.

With less than two minutes remaining in the first half, striker Boon (34th min) made another mark when putting Belgium 2-1 ahead. This was his third goal in the competition making him the new tournament top scorer.

Argentina levelled the score to 2-2 in the middle of the second half when completely unmarked Matias Paredes (50th minute) latched onto the ball at the far post to deflect a long pass coming from Juan Martin Lopez into the goal.

Argentina held on to their attacking style taking the lead for the first time in the match when Callioni (61st min) picked up a flick and managed to lift the ball over the Belgian keeper.

Speaking on the back to back win Argentina Coach Carlos Retegui said: "it's a happy moment for us to have defeated both Netherlands and Belgium. We hope to continue this winning streak in our next matches. The boys knew that this is an important match but they did not come under any pressure and kept their cool in the entire game."

The Times of India

England beat Olympic & European Champions


England's Simon Mantell & Tim Whiteman celerate their victory over Germany in the pool stages of the Hero Hockey World League Final

A strong team performance from England saw them secure all three points against world number one side Germany to go top of Pool A at the Hero Hockey World League Final. Goals from Tom Carson and Ashley Jackson in the first-half proved to be enough to earn England the victory and put them in a really good position going into their final pool game against New Zealand on Monday.

In the other Pool A game of the evening New Zealand beat India 1-0 to leave the hosts rooted at the bottom of the table.

Speaking after the game England Head Coach Bobby Crutchley said, “It was nice to get a win today, especially against a team as strong as Germany. We defended well throughout the game and kept Germany at bay, but we had to defend a bit too much for my liking.  When the pressure came on us and they stepped up we just weren’t quite strong enough on the ball. Having said that, when we did come away with it I thought we looked a consistent threat on the counter-attack and that secured the three points for us today.”

Looking ahead to the game against New Zealand on Monday, Crutchley knows the areas to improve, adding: “We kept getting our shape wrong at times, but that’s only because we lack a bit of match practice and I know that will improve as the tournament goes on.  I’d like us to retain the ball under pressure and push forward more. I know the team is capable of sustaining longer periods of attacking play and it’s a case of us looking to get a little bit better every game.”

It took just four minutes for Reading’s Tom Carson to put his stamp on the match and give England a 1-0 lead. A quick ball into the circle from Ashley Jackson found Carson, who with his back to goal pulled the ball away from Linus Butt and as he turned he fired a shot home with pin-point accuracy into the far right corner past Nicolas Jacobi in Germany’s goal. Unfortunately the lead didn’t last long and in the 11th minute Marco Miltkau took advantage of a scramble in front of goal to make it 1-1.

England sat quite deep in defence for much of the game, but Iain Lewers and his defensive line did a superb job keeping the world number one side out and England looked a threat everytime they counter-attacked.  In the 21st minute a trademark Jackson drag-flick took a deflection off a German stick and proved to be the decisive goal as the score moved to 2-1. The goal marked Jackson’s 50th goal in an England shirt and the team were clearly enjoying having him back in the side following several months on the sidelines after ankle surgery back in July.

The second-half was played out to a goalless draw, but certainly didn’t lack action. Germany continued to push hard and drive at England’s defence, but with the help of George Pinner in England’s goal and a gutsy all-round team performance, England dug deep and closed down all of Germany’s chances to play out the game and take a deserved 2-1 victory.

Speaking after the game the Hero Man of the Match, Ashley Jackson said, “It was a tough game against Germany out there today; it is always a physical encounter, but it’s a battle we look forward to as a team. Hopefully we’ll be playing them again later on in the tournament because you know if you’re up against them you’re generally at the right end of the draw in the closing stages. Hopefully another good performance against New Zealand on Monday will put us in the best possible position for the knock-out stages.”

Adding his thoughts on the importance on playing as a team, Jackson said: “The team performance is everything. It doesn’t matter how many individual awards you pick up, if you’re not winning and playing as a team then you’re never going to get that far. As you saw we defended very hard out there; George Pinner is rock in goal for us at the back which is great to see and that just breeds confidence for us across the rest of the pitch.”

There’s a rest day tomorrow for all the teams. England’s final Pool A game is against New Zealand on Monday at 08:30 (UK time) tomorrow. The match will be streamed live at www.youtube.com/fihockey

ENGLAND 2 (2)
Tom Carson 4 (FG)
Ashley Jackson 21 (PC)

GERMANY 1 (1)
Marco Miltkau 11 (FG)

England Hockey Board Media release

England continue fine form with 2-1 win against Germany

By Rod Gilmour


Ashley Jackson and Tom Carson scored the goals as England beat Germany 2-1 Photo: ADY KERRY

England should benefit from favourable quarter-final draw after second successive victory at World League Finals in India thanks to Ashley Jackson and Tom Carson's goals

First India were cast aide, now a thoroughly deserved win over Germany. England’s men have started the World League Finals in emphatic style and a tight 2-1 win over their European rivals on Saturday should now see them to a favourable quarter-final draw.

Ashley Jackson scored his 50th England goal following Tom Carson’s early strike while Bobby Crutchley’s side again showed resilience at the back to hold on as the Germans looked for a late equaliser with England down to 10 men.

Jackson, the man of the match, said: “It always is physical against them and we always enjoy the battle. Hopefully we can meet them again in the knock out stages, where you know you are in a battle.

“We defended very well and George Pinner was a rock in goal at the back. It breeds confidence throughout the team and long may it continue.”

England opened the scoring in the fifth minute when Jackson played in a quick ball to Carson, whose shot fizzed past Nicolas Jacobi.

The lead lasted six minutes as Marco Miltkau then tapped home after a scramble in the England penalty area.

England bounced back as Jackson, who was a threat throughout, saw his dragflick deflect off a German stick past Jacobi in the 20th minute.

The Germans pressed higher up field after the break. Skipper Oliver Korn went close before Tobias Matania found himself unmarked in D, but shot ruefully wide.

However England were looking a tight unit at the back and Germany's attacking instinct made for a thoroughly entertaining clash

Crutchley's side held on, though they were put under sustained pressure with Henry Weir’s sin bin 10 minutes from time.

England play their final group fixture against New Zealand on Monday. The quarter-finals take place on Wednesday

The Telegraph

Dutch defeat for Kookas

Solitary Billy Bakker strike proves the difference on day two of World League Finals



A solitary strike by Billy Bakker consigned the Kookaburras to a 1-0 defeat at the hands of the Olympic silver medallists, the Netherlands, at the World League Finals on Saturday.

Despite enjoying the better of the chances, Australia’s men were made to pay for failing to find the net from seven penalty corners, although they were unfortunate to find Dutch goalkeeper Jaap Stockmann in good form.

Speaking afterwards, Head Coach Ric Charlesworth said, “We only have ourselves to blame. We didn’t play at the level I think we can today. We didn’t play as well as we would like for many reasons; our basics were poor but we still made enough chances to win the game and didn’t. We had seven or eight corners. That’s where we’re at, at the moment.

“You hope that you would play better and better each day but we had the opportunities today but we couldn’t finish and that’s disappointing.”

Bakker’s goal came shortly after half time as he profited from a pass by Robert van der Horst before turning the Kookaburras defence and firing home on the angle.

The Kookaburras enjoyed the best of a goalless first half winning five penalty corners but were unable to find a way past Jaap Stockmann as Kieran Govers, Eddie Ockenden (below), Jason Wilson and Glenn Turner all came close.

At the other end Kiel Brown was in good form, twice denying Dutch shots with committed last ditch blocks and goalkeeper George Bazeley was called upon on several occasions.

When it came shortly after half time, the goal only served to stir the Kookaburras into further action with large spells of the second half played inside the Dutch half. With the pressure building, Queenslander Liam de Young saw the whites of Stockmann’s eyes but his cut-back was cut out. And soon after, the Netherlands cleared off their goal line.

Substitute goalkeeper Tyler Lovell kept Australia in it with a good double save and there was sigh of relief when Constantijn Jonker failed to connect diving at the Kookaburras’ back post. Two late penalty corners ramped up the tension further but twice Stockmann denied Kieran Govers.

Captain Mark Knowles said afterwards, “It was disappointing. The thing that let us down there was the energy. Second day it’s no excuses but certainly we didn’t bring what we brought yesterday and we need to pick up on our skill level leading into a very tough, physical encounter against Argentina.

“It is only the second game of the tournament, you need to work yourself into it but we need to be better than that.”

Speaking about the pool matches, Knowles said, “They’re just building blocks. Obviously, we want to be playing better than we did today but the good thing about this is that we get another chance and we need to play better against Argentina, rest and recuperate tomorrow and then a tough game. Then the quarter finals and that’s when it gets real. Certainly we expect a lot of each other as players and the coaching staff expect a lot of us and that wasn’t up to our level today but we know we can get better and we’re still in the tournament.”

The result sees the Netherlands move level on points with the Kookaburras although the Kookaburras remain in second place in the pool on goal difference. Earlier in the day, Argentina beat Belgium 3-2 to stretch their lead at the top of Pool B to three points.

The Kookaburras meet Argentina at 4pm local time on Monday (9:30pm AEDT / 6:30pm AWST). The match will be shown live on YouTube.com/fihockey and on delay on ABC 1.
 
Pool Standings
1. Argentina (6 pts, 2 matches)
2. Australia (3 pts, 2 matches)
3. Netherlands (3 pts, 2 matches)
4. Belgium (0 pts, 2 matches)

World League Finals, Men
Pool B
New Delhi, India

On Twitter: @Kookaburras, #HHWL

KOOKABURRAS 0 (0)
-

NETHERLANDS 1 (0)
Billy Bakker 38 (F)

Kookaburras squad v Netherlands
(listed alphabetically by surname)
Name (Hometown) caps/goals
Started
George Bazeley  (GK) (Melbourne, VIC) 66/0
Daniel Beale (Brisbane, QLD) 16/4
Joel Carroll (Darwin, NT) 92/2
Tim Deavin (Launceston, TAS) 79/3
Kieran Govers (Wollongong, NSW) 79/36
Mark Knowles (Rockhampton, QLD) 220/17
Eddie Ockenden (Hobart, TAS) 195/51
Tristan White (Wollongong, NSW) 17/1
Jake Whetton (Brisbane, QLD) 42/17
Jason Wilson (Kingscliff, QLD) 92/32
Aran Zalewski (Margaret River, WA) 22/3

Used Substitute
Nick Budgeon (Hobart, TAS) 10/2
Kiel Brown (Toowoomba, QLD) 140/4
Liam De Young (Brisbane, QLD) 292/34
Russell Ford (Eltham, VIC) 139/65
Tyler Lovell (GK) (Perth, WA) 10/0
Simon Orchard (Maitland, NSW) 136/43
Glenn Turner (Goulburn, NSW) 98/73

Hockey Australia media release

Los Leones lie in wait

Knowles & Charlesworth won't be underestimating pool-toppers Argentina



As the pool phase comes to a close on Monday, the Kookaburras face up to Pool B leaders Argentina. The South Americans have won their opening two matches, beating the Netherlands 5-2 and coming from behind to beat Belgium 3-2.

Argentina has always produced international teams with plenty of talent, but over the past year the current men’s team has developed into a side that can challenge the best in the world. Coach Carlos Retegui – the man who guided the Argentina women to World Cup glory in 2010 – is overseeing the revolution, helping “Los Leones” (The Lions) to realise their potential.

Looking ahead to Monday’s contest, Kookaburras captain Mark Knowles said, “We played them in the International Super Series in Perth a couple of months ago and they were very good, very skillful on the ball; a different set of skills with their jinks and their body movement and their goal scoring ability that they’ve shown against the Dutch and against Belgium. It’s a big challenge but we don’t come to the top eight tournament in the world and expect any easy games.”

Head Coach Ric Charlesworth added, “Argentina’s undefeated. They’ve been playing well and things are working for them so you’ve got to think that’s going to be a very tough match.”

The South Americans may be the lowest ranked team in the competition, but their superb recent form and fearless attacking style have led them to the top of the goal scoring charts after two days.

They came into this event as Pan American champions and were hugely impressive in the HWL Semi Final in Johor Bahru, reaching the event final before eventually losing to Olympic champions and world number 1 Germany. Fourteen of the 18 competitors from Johor have been selected for the Hero Hockey World League Final, including free-scoring attackers Matias Paredes and Facundo Callioni as well as rising star Gonzalo Peillat, the drag-flicking defender who netted seven times at the event in Malaysia.

One to watch: Lucas Vila. Coach Retegui is really getting the best out of a player who has long been considered to be one of the most naturally gifted creative players.

The Kookaburras require a victory over Argentina and a four goal swing if they’re to be in with a chance of finishing top of Pool B. The Netherlands, who sit third, level on points with the Kookaburras, face Belgium on Monday.

Match details - Kookaburras v Argentina
Monday, 13 January
4pm local time / 9:30pm AEDT / 6:30pm AWST
Watch live on YouTube.com/fihockey
Watch on delay on ABC 1 at 10:40pm

Follow live Twitter updates by following @Kookaburras and @FIH_hockey or using the hashtag #HHWL

Hockey Australia media release

Black Sticks grab first points over India



A much improved performance has seen the Black Sticks dominate India 3-1 to secure their first points at the World League Final in New Delhi.

Leading 1-0 at halftime, the Black Sticks held their composure in the second half and didn’t allow India to build any momentum thanks to some strong defending.

Shea McAleese scored the tournament’s fastest goal so far inside the first minute, with Stephen Jenness scoring a second half double to seal the win.

It took the Black Sticks less than a minute to light up the scoreboard, with McAleese on an open run into the circle before taking a cracking shot into the top left corner of the goal.

The first half settled into a relatively even affair, with both sides creating chances but unable to execute the final blow.

Jenness increased New Zealand’s lead in the 40th minute with a dinky touch between the goalkeeper’s legs, and added his second goal 10 minutes later with a stinging reverse shot from the top of the circle.

India scored a consolation goal just two minutes from fulltime through Mandeep.

Man of the Match Jenness said it was good to come out and play well following yesterday’s tough loss to Germany.

“Last night was tough, we had to come out and get the points today and we did that. We didn’t have much ball against Germany so that was a focus for us and we did well in that area today,” he said.

“We held onto the ball well and took our chances when we could. It was a great team effort and the result comes down to the work the boys put into supporting each other.”

The Black Sticks will play England in their final pool game of the tournament at 9.30pm tomorrow night (NZ time).

In today’s other Pool A game England beat Germany 2-1, while in Pool B Netherlands defeated Australia 1-0 and Argentina upset Belgium 3-2.

All Black Sticks games at the World League Final, plus semi finals are live on SKY Sport. All other games can be streamed live online at www.fih.ch

Black Sticks 3: (Shea McAleese, Stephen Jenness 2)
India 1: (Mandeep)
Halftime: Black Sticks 1-0

Hockey New Zealand Media release

Black Sticks men bounce back, beat India 3-1

The New Zealand Black Sticks men have bounced back with a 3-1 victory over India overnight at the Hockey World League in Delhi.

Stephen Jenness scored twice as the Black Sticks responded a day after losing 6-1 to Germany in Pool A.

New Zealand made it clear from the opening whistle that they were determined to make up for the previous day's poor showing, with Shea McAleese opening the Black Sticks' account in the first minute.

His goal, scored through open play, steadied the team's nerves while the sheer physicality and steadiness of the New Zealand players seemed to rock India's confidence.

India were not without their chances in the first half, but their deft stick work was often let down in the final phase. India won two penalty corners in quick succession but Black Sticks goalkeeper Devon Manchester cleared the ball from the circle easily on both occasions.

The second half saw much of the same. India played some quick, inventive hockey, and Chandanda Thimmaiah was unlucky to see his shot fly over the cross bar, but it was New Zealand who again took their chance. A free hit in the 41st minute found Jenness unmarked in the circle and he duly slotted the ball home.

Then, 10 minutes later Jenness had his second, virtually ensuring victory for the Black Sticks over the host nation.

India got a consolation goal from Mandeep Singh with two minutes remaining, seizing on a loose ball and shot home to the delight of the crowd.

The Black Sticks face England at 9.30pm Monday night in their final pool match.

Stuff

NZ win against hosts India 3-1

By David Leggat


Shea McAleese celebrates scoring against India.

New Zealand got on the board in their second match at the World League hockey finals with a 3-1 win over hosts India in New Delhi today.

It was a much-improved performance after their 6-1 loss to Olympic champions Germany in their opening game.

Midfielder Shea McAleese got the first goal in the second minute and two second half goals from Stephen Jenness - one a deft flick from a Phil Burrows drive into the circle the other a neat individual effort - had the seventh-ranked Black Sticks 3-0 up midway through the second half.

India got a consolation goal through Mandeep Singh late in the match.

"We didn't have much ball against Germany so that was a focus for us and we did well in that area today," man of the match Jenness said.

"We held onto the ball well and took our chances when we could. It was a great team effort and the result comes down to the work the boys put into supporting each other."

New Zealand play fourth-ranked England in their last pool game tomorrow night (NZT).

In the other pool A game, in a surprise England beat the Germans 2-1, while in pool B the Netherlands beat Australia 1-0 and Argentina surprised Belgium 3-2.

The New Zealand Herald

New Zealand hands India its second defeat

Uthra Ganesan


Mandeep Singh engages Alex Shaw in the Hockey World League match. Photo: R.V. Moorthy   

An insipid India suffered its second straight defeat in the Hockey World League Final, going down 3-1 to New Zealand at the National Stadium on Saturday.

Stephen Jenness scored twice for the Black Sticks while Shea McCaleese added one to the tally as the Indians were outplayed yet again in every department of the game. Mandeep Singh scored the consolation goal for the host.

In the first match, India had only appeared disjointed. On Saturday, the team played like amateurs.

“We were very slow and far below the standards of top teams. There are no excuses for today’s loss,” admitted coach Terry Walsh

New Zealand went ahead in the very first minute through an unmarked Shea McCaleese. India had its chances soon after, but a couple of penalty corners in succession in the third minute were frittered away.

After this, India managed to enter the opposition circle only twice in the first half. New Zealand was unlucky to not get more goals as McCaleese hit the crossbar couple of times.

The second half was different, only in that the Indians managed to reach the opposition circle more often. But the goals eluded the Indians as the forward-line failed to trap, connect or deflect the ball properly.

A long pass from Phil Burrows was deflected in by Jenness in the 40th minute while another defensive lapse saw him add to the total. The Indian defence, which had performed decently on Friday, seemed to be afflicted by the toothless attack. Rupinderpal Singh and V.R. Raghunath kept losing the ball even as Amit Rohidas almost scored a couple of own goals!

“The team’s confidence is low and the losses have only accelerated its downward spiral and my main job now is to stop it. The team is not used to adapting to variations in tactics,” said Walsh.

Given the way the team played, it won’t be easy.

England keeps winning

Earlier, England remained unbeaten with a 2-1 win over Olympic champion Germany in an ill-tempered match. England opened the scoring in the fourth minute through Tom Carson while Germany replied four minutes later.

England got its winner when Ashley Jackson’s penalty corner flick deflected in off a German defender’s stick in the 20th minute.

In Pool B, the Netherlands registered its first win in the competition with a 1-0 win against Australia. Billy Bakker scored the lone goal of the match in the 38th minute. Argentina continued its winning spree, beating Belgium 3-2.

The results: Pool A: New Zealand 3 (Stephen Jenness 2, Shea McCaleese) bt India 1 (Mandeep Singh); England 2 (Tom Carson, Ashley Jackson) bt Germany 1 (Marco Miltkau).

Pool B: Argentina 3 (Pedro Ibarra, Matias Parades, Facundo Callioni) bt Belgium 2 (Tom Boon 2); Netherlands 1 (Billy Bakker) beat Australia 0.

The Hindu

India go down 1-3 to New Zealand in Hockey World League

Biswajyoti Brahma

NEW DELHI: India came up with yet another ordinary performance to go down 1-3 against New Zealand in their second match of the Hero Hockey World League Final on Saturday.

Saturday's defeat has added to the feeling that the hosts will finish last in their pool.

The Indian fans who were expecting their side to show some spunk were left disappointed. Despite being cheered by a couple of thousand spectators who braved the evening chill in open stands to see their team in action, the men in blue could score just once, that too towards the end of the match. By then, the contest was over.

After losing their first match against England, India needed to start on a positive note but the Kiwis stunned them with a goal in the first minute. Shea McAleese took them by surprise as he raced into the Indian circle and slammed home a long pass.

The Indians tried hard to draw parity but their attack lacked the incisiveness to make inroads into the Kiwi defence. They made a few moves here and there, but the majority of them fizzled out outside the 'D'. The few times they managed to get in, they forced a couple of penalty corners. But both of them failed to produce a goal.

New Zealand could have taken a 3-0 lead in the first half had they not wasted a couple of very good chances. First Hugo Inglis came up with a long solo run before hitting the ball over the bar, and then Nick Haig's shot from inside the circle beat goalkeeper PR Sreejesh but hit the bar. The deflection from the bar was hit wide by Simon Child.

The Indian strikers were marginally better in the second half but they could not stop the Black Sticks from running away with the match. The Indians will now play Olympic champions Germany on Monday.

Earlier, World No. 1 Germany suffered their first reverse when they were stunned 2-1 by a resurgent England. All the three goals were scored in the first half.

After England's early strike in the fourth minute, Germany levelled the score seven minutes later. The World No. 4 team again took the lead in the 21st minute through Ashley Jackson and held on to it to emerge winners.

The Netherlands recovered from their shock defeat against Argentina a day earlier to overcome Australia 1-0 in a well-contested encounter. Billy Bakker scored three minutes into the second half.

Argentina kept their slate clean with a come-from-behind 3-2 win over Belgium in the opening match of the day. In a see-saw battle Belgium took the lead twice, but Argentina caught up with them both the times before scoring the winner in the 61st minute.

Results: NZ (Shea McAleese 1, Stephen Jennes 40, 50) beat India 3-1 (Mandeep Singh 68); England beat Germany 2-1; The Netherlands beat Australia 1-0; Argentina beat Belgium 3-2

The Times of India

India lose 1-3 to New Zealand

NEW DELHI: India suffered their second consecutive loss of the Hockey World League Final after they went down 1-3 to World No.7 New Zealand in a Pool A clash at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium on Saturday.

Earlier, England surprised reigning Olympic champions and World No.1 Germany 2-1 in the other group clash as Ashley Jackson's goal settled the matter in the 21st minute after being level at 1-all. England, who beat India 2-0 Friday, currently top the group standings.

Coming back from a humiliating 1-6 loss to Germany Friday, the Black Sticks displayed a thumping performance to easily beat hosts India in front of a 1,000-strong crowd.

New Zealand took off in fantastic fashion stunning India with a first minute goal when an unmarked Shea McAleese put the ball past Indian stopper P.R. Sreejesh.

On the back foot already, India tried penetrating the Kiwi striking circle immediately and earned two back-to-back penalty corners in the third minute. But both times the visitors denied India the chance to equalise.

Soon, Mandeep Singh had another chance when he almost reached the New Zealand goal but fell to a tackle and could not convert the chance.

The Black Sticks also had a good chance of doubling their lead as a Hugo Inglis strike went just above the goalpost in the 25th minute. Two minutes later New Zealand had their best chance when a Nick Haig shot hit the post but luck was on India's side this instance and the ball kept out.

Nikkin Thimmaiah almost ran the full distance of the pitch but was unable to convert as he found no support in the Kiwi D.

New Zealand earned their first penalty corner in the 33rd minute but India were successful at keeping the ball out and went into the break 0-1 down.

Five minutes into the second half, the visitors doubled the lead as a Phil Burrows free hit was elegantly deflected by Stephen Jenness.

The Indians created more chances with Birendra Lakra hitting one wide of the post. Thimmaiah created a brilliant chance inside the striking circle but wasted too much time in passing the ball by which time the New Zealand defenders were at his heels and cleared the ball with ease.

To add salt to India's wounds, Jenness scored his second goal of the match in the 50th minute to put the game completely out of India's reach. New Zealand wasted most of the time left on the clock by passing the ball within themselves and controlling the game.

India managed a consolation goal in the dying minutes when Mandeep struck after a deflection from a Kiwi player.

India next face Germany Tuesday while New Zealand play table toppers England.

Pool A results: England beat Germany 2-1, New Zealand beat India 3-1

The Times of India

Walsh livid at players for poor show against NZ

NEW DELHI: He might have had encouraging words for his wards irrespective of defeat in their tournament opener, but India's chief coach Terry Walsh was livid with the home team's performance against New Zealand and termed the showing as "unacceptable".

After losing 0-2 to England last night, India were overwhelmed 1-3 by New Zealand in their second Pool A match at the Hero Hockey World League Final here and Walsh did not mince words to criticise the players.

"We made a lot of unforced errors in executing our skills. We played very slowly. We were horrible with penalty corner conversions. It is very frustrating to miss opportunities," Walsh said after the match.

"Our performance was sub-standard and unacceptable. We perform well in training but when it comes to performing under pressure we falter. The way we played it showed the opponent was too good for us," the Australian added.

New Zealand coach Colin Batch was full of praise for his boys especially after the 1-6 drubbing at the hands of Germany yesterday.

"I am very happy with our performance. We implemented our tactics well today unlike the Germany match," he said.

The Times of India

Tainted Bhanot walks in as chief guest at Hockey World League

NEW DELHI: Scam-tainted Lalit Bhanot's presence as the chief guest during the India-New Zealand match of the Hero Hockey World League Final on Saturday raised eyebrows, especially after the suspended IOA secretary-general is facing serious corruption charges related to the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games.

To the surprise of the all and sundry present at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, Bhanot was introduced as the chief guest to players from both sides as he shook hands with them before the mandatory national anthem ceremony.

Bhanot, despite his tainted image, was elected unopposed as the secretary general of the IOA. But the election till date remains null and void as the International Olympic Committee (IOC), had suspended the IOA.

Bhanot, who spent nearly a year in jail last year in connection with the Commonwealth Games corruption case, was elected secretary general of the IOA along with Virendra Nanavati (senior vice-president) and N Ramachandran (treasurer) after the three-member IOA Election Commission, headed by Justice (retd) Anil Dev Singh, put up the final list of candidates.

However, the IOC refused to recognize the elections and subsequently banned India from the Olympic movement.

Hockey India secretary general Narinder Batra was asked as on what capacity a tainted official like Bhanot was accorded as the chief guest status during an international fixture, he refused comment.

The Times of India

Controversy over Bhanot’s presence

There was a buzz of controversy ahead of the India-New Zealand match during the Hockey World League Final on Saturday.

Lalit Bhanot, secretary of the suspended Indian Olympic Association and one of the key officials whose presence has been objected to by the International Olympic Committee, was introduced as the chief guest for the game.

Bhanot is also the secretary of the Delhi Olympic Association and has been charged of corruption during the CWG.

Asked about it, Hockey India secretary general Narinder Batra defended the decision.

“He is my friend and someone who has been associated with Indian sports for a long time. I don’t there is any controversy and if anyone thinks there is, it is their wish. I do not wish to say anything else,” Batra said.

The Hindu

Ireland v Spain - Saturday Results

Both Ireland's national hockey teams are currently at a warm weather training camp in Terrassa, Spain while taking in match practice against the Spanish. Both squads, had positive starts today in their opening games with a number of debuts been made in the green jersey.

MEN: Ireland's men played the earlier slot of 2.30 (Irish time) and came out with a good 1-1 draw against the higher ranked Spaniards currently holding the number 8th spot in the world rankings. No goals were seen in the first 35 Ireland's David Fitzgerald between the nets proving his worth with some outstanding saves. Fitzgerald's skill was called upon early in the second half in a one on one and set Spanish routine but the deadlock held strong until the 56th minute when the Spanish finally opened their account from an open play reverse shot. Ireland did not trail for too long thanks to some great midfield play by the Irish releasing Gary Shaw down the flank to cut in across the end line beating two Spaniards before dropping the ball back to David Carson who dragged it in low to the left of the keeper to level the sides. Ireland enjoyed applying pressure in the final ten but the sides finished off sharing the spoils. Ireland's Green Machine will go head to head with the Spanish once again Monday at 2.30 Irish Time.

Ireland saw a number of new caps today -Michael Robson; Harry Spain; Ross Canning; Stephen Brownlow; James Corry; Nick Burns; Mark Loughrey and Richie Shaw.

MEN:  Ireland 1–1 Spain (HT: 0-0)(David Carson)

WOMEN: Ireland's Green Army will be disappointed to lose out 3-2 to hosts Spain this evening after enjoying a 2-1 lead and succumbing to the defeat only in the final touch of the match. Ireland initially went 1-0 down before Anna O'Flanagan found the equaliser after a lovely pass from team mate Megan Frazer.

With just 10 to go Ireland took the lead thanks to Naomi Carroll before Ireland's experienced Cliodhna Sargent made a great line save from a Spanish penalty corner but the ensuing long corner gave the hosts a chance to equalise when they took their chance well making it 2-2.  Ireland who were enjoying some fantastic hockey had a great chance to go ahead with a Deirdre Duke deflection but the opportunity was denied and the Spanish made a quick break finishing off with only 3 seconds left on the clock to close it out 3-2.

Ireland will have a chance to put the scoreline right tomorrow when they take on Spain for the second day running. Ireland's Audrey O'Flynn represented her country for her 100th cap this evening while  Ayeisha McFerran made her debut in Goals when she came on for the second half.

WOMEN: Ireland 2–3 Spain (HT 0-0:) (Anna O'Flanagan; Naomi Carroll)

Ireland v Spain - match schedule (all Spanish Times which is +1hr on Irish Time)

12th January
Women Ireland v Spain 14.00 Terrassa Estadium (Terrassa).

13th January
Men Ireland v Spain 15.30 Club Egara (Terrassa)

14th January
Women Ireland v Spain 12.00 Terrassa Estadium (Terrassa)

15th January
Women Ireland v Spain 11.30 Terrassa Estadium (Terrassa)
Men Ireland v Spain 15.30 Atletic Terrassa Hockey Club (Terrassa)

MEN’S SQUAD
Ireland Squad – Spain 2014: David Fitzgerald (Monkstown); Stephen West (TRR); Richie Shaw (Glenanne); Stephen Brownlow (Glenanne ); John Jackson (Reading); Mark Loughrey (Pembroke); Drew Carlisle (Banbridge); Michael Robson (Annadale); Peter Brown (UCD); Jason Lynch (Lisnagarvey); James Corry (Instonians); Nick Burns (UCD); Ross Canning (UCD); David Carson (Monkstown); Shane O’Donoghue (UCD); Jeremy Duncan (UCD); Kirk Shimmins (UCD); Harry Spain (Pembroke Wanderers); Mark Ingram (Pembroke Wanderers); Gary Shaw (Glenanne)

WOMEN’S SQUAD
Ireland Squad – Spain 2014: Pamela Smithwick -  Old Alex – Goalkeeper;  Emma Gray - Hermes – Goalkeeper; Ayeisha McFerran – Randalstown – Goalkeeper; Kate Dillon – Railway Union – Defender; Michelle Harvey – Pegasus/Leuven – Defender; Ali Meeke – Loreto – Defender; Yvonne O'Byrne – Cork Harlequins – Defender; Audrey O'Flynn – Hermes – Defender; Cliodhna Sargent – Cork Harlequins – Defender; Zoe Wilson – Randalstown – Defender; Emily Beatty - UCD – Midfield; Nicci Daly – Loreto/Holcombe – Midfield; Emma Duncan – Old Alex – Midfield; Megan Frazer – Ballymoney/Holcombe – Midfield; Lisa Jacob – Hermes/SCHC – Midfield; Gillian Pinder – UCD – Midfield; Sara Twomey – Hermes – Midfield; Chloe Watkins – UCD/Club de Campo – Midfield; Naomi Carroll – Catholic Institute – Striker; Chloe Brown – Ards – Striker; Deidre Duke – UCD – Striker; Nikki Evans – UCD – Striker; Kate Lloyd – Railway Union – Striker; Katie Mullan – UCD – Striker; Anna O'Flanagan – UCD – Striker; Vanessa Surgeoner – Pegasus - Striker

Irish Hockey Association media release

Hockey chiefs target Rio Olympic goal

By Graham Hamilton

The Irish Hockey Union has outlined its objectives for the next four years.

And highest on their agenda is to have their international teams competing at the 2016 Rio Olympics and the 2018 World Cup finals in India.

As part of the four-year strategy the governing body also plans to examine the viability of a National Centre of Excellence and increase the number of players participating in the sport by 20 per cent.

"We have seen significant growth in investment and human resources in the sport over the last number of years," says the report.

"To continue to move forward we need to deliver a programme that is progressively self-sufficient.

"Hockey is currently underpinned by a volunteer ethos allied to a professional staff that has brought it to its current status. In order that we maintain the growth, it is imperative that we retain and build on the strong structures we have in place."

Altogether there are eight components in their key strategic goals. They are:

1. Develop a fit for purpose governing body by continuing to set and maintain standards that ensure appropriate levels of governance to protect all stakeholders.

2. Promote, adapt and develop our sport to ensure we reach our target of a 20 per cent growth in participation by 2018.

3. Provide a pathway to identify talented players, enabling them to fulfil their potential and to compete at the highest level

4. Investigate the viability of a National Centre of Excellence and what it will bring to the sport.

5. Continue to promote coach education to ensure coaches have the greatest opportunities to excel.

6. Provide development and support to umpires and technical officials to ensure participation to the highest standards.

7. Improve communication between all stakeholders, both internal and external.

8. Develop a fundraising and sponsorship strategy that supports all of the strategic goals and helps secure the future of the sport.

The Belfast Telegraph

Akuwa upbeat ahead of hockey tourney

By David Namunyala

WANAINCHI hockey club’s skipper Derrick Akuwa has challenged the other Ugandan teams to make the country proud in the Africa Cup for Clubs Hockey Championship starting today at the National Hockey Stadium in Kampala.

Akuwa made the remarks at a press conference held at Lugogo on Thursday shortly after his side Wanainchi lost 5-3 to the defending champions, Elsharkayya Hockey team from Egypt in a friendly encounter.

He believes his side can do better.

“They (the Egyptian) are a well composed team and so determined. We can only have the trophy remain  at home if we not only play as Wanainchi but are supported by fellow local teams to make it past the group stages,” he said.

Besides Akuwa’s team, Uganda has also entered three others including 2012 league first runners-up Kampala in the men’s category, 2012 champions and second placed finalists Weatherhead and Kampala respectively in the women’s category.

The week long event has attracted 16 teams.

Africa Cup for Clubs Hockey Championship

Women

Heartlands (Nigeria) v Twende (Tz) 11am
Orange (Ken) v Weatherhead (Ug) 3pm

Men

Kenya police (Ken) v Union Bank (Nigeria) 1pm
Trustees (Ghana) v Kampala (Ug) 5pm

The New Vision

Orange Telkom began their title retention on a high note

By ELIZABETH MBURUGU


Brian Saina controls the ball challenged by Taiwo Taiwo during the africa Club Championships in Kampala.

KENYA: Africa hockey women’s defending champions Orange Telkom began their title retention campaign on a winning note as they thumped home team Weatherheads 6-0 at the Lugogo National Hockey Stadium in Kampala Uganda yesterday.

Kenya’s other team Police beat Union Bank of Nigeria 2-0 in the tournament opener.

Orange dominated the entire match but failed to score more goals. Orange coach Jos Openda said they won the match but it was not a convincing.

“We won the match but we failed in goal scoring, we wasted many chances which would have seen us score more goals,” he said.

Looking forward to their second match he said Orange will work on polishing their goal scoring skills.

“We are the champs and to retain the title we have to play like champions. We will work on our goal scoring skills so we can have better results,” he added.

The Kenyan girls went into the match buzzing with confidence and announced their intention just four minutes into the game as Audrey Omaido slotted in a fantastic field goal.

Three minutes later Jacqueline Jow added a second for the champs from a Magret Rotich back pass increasing their chances of sealing the victory. The Ugandan girls composed themselves coming back into the game and containing the Kenyans.

Orange got a short corner in the 25th minute and Jow could not miss the opportunity of adding a second on her tally as she tactically converted.

Judith Apiyo made sure her name was on the score sheet sending the ball home in the 31st minute. Orange earned a penalty corner in the 35th minute and Captain Betsy Ommala made it 5-0 before the breather. Weatherheads came back into the game composed playing defensively and making sure they did not concede more goals. However, veteran player Rose Mbulo beat their defence in the 51st minute to seal the victory.

Kenya Police, who also began on a high, went matched to the field confident and  showed their lust for victory in the sixth minute as midfielder Oliver Echenje took to the left passing the ball to Samuel Wokila who scored a fantastic field goal.

Moses Cheplaiti could have it two for the law enforcers but the ball went above the bar. However, Felix Okoth scored the winner in the 24th minute.

Standard

Bowdon and Reading reach indoor finals


Bowdon's Susannah Townsend in action against Canterbury

Bowdon Hightown and Reading secured their places in the final of the Women’s Maxinutrition Hockey 5s Championship at Wembley with thrilling semi final victories at Arena Sport Kettering on Saturday evening.

Bowdon needed a penalty shootout to defeat Canterbury in their semi final, while Reading had to rely on a goal from hat-trick hero Alex Danson in the last few seconds to beat Slough 4-3.

Canterbury opened up an early 2-0 lead in the first semi final with Nikki Kidd and Anna Baker on target, but Bowdon Hightown battled back to lead 3-2 at half time with Sally Walton, Susannah Townsend (pictured) and Tina Cullen all scoring.

Cullen bagged a second goal to put Bowdon 4-2 ahead, before Canterbury hit back in dramatic fashion with goals from Mel Clewlow and Grace Balsdon to make it 4-4.

Sally Walton edged Bowdon ahead with a penalty stroke with three minutes remaining, but Kidd scored her second with a minute left to tie the match once again.

However, it was Bowdon Hightown who held their nerve to win the penalty shootout 2-1.

In the second semi final reigning champions Reading survived a dramatic late fightback from Slough to make it to Wembley once again.

Helen Richardson-Walsh scored after nine minutes, and two goals from Danson helped put Reading 3-0 ahead.

But Mel Ball pulled one back just before half time, and when Ashleigh Ball halved the deficit from a 32nd minute penalty corner, it was very much game on.

Alex Scott – whose many goals helped get Slough to the semi finals – scored on 36 minutes to tie the match. But Danson completed her hat-trick with 15 seconds remaining to break Slough hearts.

Afterwards, Reading captain Emma Thomas said: “Both semi finals were a great advert for the women’s game in England. Ours was a really tight game, but we’re absolutely thrilled to be going back to Wembley.

“We have to give great credit to Slough who put up a hell of a fight and showed what a good team they are. They also showed us a few things which we will need to work on before the final, but we were very determined and I’m really proud of the girls for getting over the line.”

And Fay Nash, Bowdon Hightown’s captain, said: “I’m absolutely beaming and I’m so proud of the girls, especially after what happened last year. After getting so close in the semi finals last year we felt we owed it to ourselves to get there this time out.

“We showed great belief and I can’t fault the commitment of every player on the pitch. Amy Tennant is a quality indoor player and a fantastic goalkeeper, we sometimes forget how young she is because of everything she achieved but we know, no matter what, we can rely on her to do the business. She did it in the 2011 final, and she did it again tonight.”

Maxinutrition Hockey 5s Championship, Women’s Premier Division semi finals: Bowdon Hightown 5, Canterbury 5 (Bowdon win 2-1 in penalty shootout); Reading 4, Slough 3.

Maxinutrition Hockey 5s Championship, Women’s Division One: Clifton 4, Surbiton 4; Chelmsford 3, Bristol Firebrands 5; Sevenoaks 2, Wakefield 5; Buckingham 3, Univ of Birmingham 7; Brooklands Poynton 0, Clifton 4; Surbiton 8, Chelmsford 1; Bristol Firebrands 3, Sevenoaks 2; Wakefield 2, Buckingham 3; Univ of Birmingham 5, Brooklands Poynton 3.

Maxinutrition Hockey 5s Championship, Men’s Division One: Cannock 4, Southgate 12; Old Loughtonians 4, Surbiton 10; Brooklands MU 10, Hampstead & Westminster 3; Havant 3, Bournville 6; Team Bath Buccaneers 7, Cannock 10; Southgate 7, Old Loughtonians 7; Surbiton 10, Brooklands MU 4; Hampstead & Westminster 2, Havant 1; Bournville 5, Team Bath Buccaneers 11.

National Schools Indoor Championships, Under-16 Girls Final: Repton School 3 Kent College 2. Under-16 Boys Final: Exeter School 2, Bromsgrove School 1.

England Hockey Board Media release

UniKL dish out poor performance

by  Satwant Singh Dhaliwal

Title aspirants UniKL Young Guns were made to sweat before registering a 2-0 win over KL Sports School-KLHC at the Pantai Hockey Stadium in a MILO junior Hockey League Division One match.

In another Division One match at the Bukit Serindit Hockey Stadium in Malacca, homesters Malacca High School were held to a 1-1 draw by Anderson-Perak SEDC.

UniKL have only themselves to blame as they wasted many chances that could have given them a comfortable win.

"We wasted far too many penalty corners in the match and this is something we need to rectify in training," said UniKL coach Mohd Rodhanizam Mat Radzi.

"While it's always good to start off with a win, it was a rather erratic performance in the first half and things improved after we got the first goal.

"We need to play better as I believe the players were nervous as it was the opening match and they lacked the patience required.

"Still the three points are a relief as openers can be difficult and it could have derailed our season even before it could get underway."

UniKL could have taken the lead in the third minute but the attempted deflection by zizi Azwan Hassan Basri came off the upright.

They also wasted three penalty corners in the first half, with Muhd Zulhaziq Hashim woefully off target, hardly posing any threat to the KLSS defenders.

Infact KLSS could have taken the lead in the 31st minute with Fallah Hassan Shahrom Jamil's deflection came of the bar.

It took UniKL only four minutes upon resumption to take the lead as Zizi Azwan slotted in a rebound after the initial shot from Muhd Fridaus Musa came off the KLSS keeper,

Firdaus then got into the scoring act, neatly tucking in a penalty corner in the 48th minute to make it 2-0 in favour of UniKL.

In Division Two, Olak-PKT went on a scoring spree, trashing Permatang Juniors 10-1 while Bukit Jalil Sports School struggled to edge their Juniors 2-1.

Results

Division One

KLSS-KLHC  0 UniKL Young Guns 2
Malacca High School  1 Anderson-Perak SEDC 1

Division 2A

SMK Syed Hassan 8 STAR Ipoh 1
Nur Insafi 5 Bakat MSSK/PHK 1

Division 2B

Permatang Juniors 1  Olak-PKT 10
Akademi Felda Temerloh 2 SMK  Padang Midin 3

Division 2C

BJSS Juniors 1 BJSS 2

MJHL Site

Tough start for UniKL in Junior League

TITLE aspirants UniKL Young Guns were made to sweat before registering a 2-0 win over KL Sports School-KLHC at the Pantai Hockey Stadium in a MILO Junior Hockey League Division One match yesterday.

In another Division One match at the Bukit Serindit Hockey Stadium in Malacca, Malacca High School were held to a 1-1 draw by Anderson-Perak SEDC.

UniKL have only themselves to blame as they wasted numerous chances for a win.

"We wasted far too many penalty corners and this is something we need to rectify in training," said UniKL coach Mohd Rodhanizam Mat Radzi.

"While it is always good to start off with a win, it was a rather erratic performance in the first half and things only improved after we got the first goal.

"We need to play better as I believe the players were nervous as it was the opening match and they lacked the patience required."

UniKL could have taken the lead in the third minute but the attempted deflection by Zizi Azwan Hassan Basri came off the upright.

They also wasted three penalty corners in the first half, with Muhd Zulhaziq Hashim woefully off target.

In fact, KLSS could have taken the lead in the 31st minute but Fallah Hassan Shahrom Jamil's deflection came off the bar.

It took UniKL only four minutes upon resumption to take the lead as Zizi Azwan slotted in a rebound after the initial shot from Muhd Fridaus Musa came off the KLSS goalkeeper.

Firdaus then got into the scoring act, neatly tucking in a penalty corner in the 48th minute to make it 2-0.

In Division Two, Olak-PKT went on a scoring spree, thrashing Permatang Juniors 10-1 while Bukit Jalil Sports School struggled to edge their Juniors 2-1.

RESULTS -- Division One: KLSS-KLHC 0 UniKL Young Guns 2, Malacca High School 1 Anderson-Perak SEDC 1.

Division 2A: SMK Syed Hassan 8 Star Ipoh 1, Nur Insafi 5 Bakat MSSK/PHK 1.

Division 2B: Permatang Juniors 1 Olak-PKT 10, Akademi Felda Temerloh 2 SMK Padang Midin 3, BJSS Juniors 1 BJSS 2.

New Straits Times

UniKL wasteful in their opening match

By S. Ramaguru


UniKL's Mohd Firdaus Musa reels away in delight after scoring the second goal against KL Sports School in the MJHL on Saturday. - SAMUEL ONG/The Star

KUALA LUMPUR: Poor finishing denied former champions Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) from notching a bigger win in their opening Division One match against KL Sports School-KLHC in the MHC-Milo-NSC Malaysia Junior Hockey League at the KL Hockey Stadium.

Although UniKL won 2-0 on Saturday with goals by Zizi Azwan Hassan Basri (39th) and Muhd Fridaus Musa (48th), coach Mohd Rodhanizam Maat Radzi was left seething with their laboured performance.

“We wasted far too many penalty corners in the match ... that’s something we need to rectify before our next game,” said Rodhanizam.

“While it’s good to start off with a win, it was quite an erratic performance in the first half but things improved once we scored the first goal.

“I believe the players were nervous as it was our opening match. They lacked patience against a team bent on defending in numbers.”

In another Division One match at the Bukit Serindit Hockey Stadium in Malacca, homesters Malacca High School were held to a 1-1 draw by Anderson-Perak SEDC.

Despite playing away, Anderson were the early aggressors and took the lead in the ninth minute through a field goal by S. Deavendran. Malacca High School equalised through Mohd Asraf Zuhry (66th).

In Division Two, Olak-PKT trounced Permatang Juniors 10-1 while Bukit Jalil Sports School could only pip their Juniors 2-1.

It was the second win for Olak, who are determined to move up to Division One next year. They had defeated KLHC Juniors 6-1 on Friday.

The Star of Malaysia