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News for 29 June 2015

All the news for Monday 29 June 2015


Quarter-final revealed as Kookaburras & Red Lions top Pools



Day 8: Nearly 5000 fans were present at the home of KHC Dragons to witness another pulsating day of action at the FINTRO Hockey World League Semi-Finals, and the line-up for the men’s quarter-finals became known.

A hat-trick for Chris Ciriello helped Australia’s Kookaburras hit India for six and seal first place in Pool A, and will now face Ireland on quarter-final day next Wednesday (1st July). The Irish finished fourth in Pool B after being defeated in dramatic fashion by Belgium, who topped Pool B and will now go head-to-head with Pool A’s fourth ranked team France.

The other two quarter-finals that will take place this coming Wednesday will see Great Britain taking on Pakistan and India doing battle with Malaysia as the race for the Hockey World League Final and Rio 2016 Olympic Games tickets continues in Antwerp.

More details on today matches can be found below, with the match schedule for the quarter-finals available by clicking here.

Pool A
Pakistan 2-2 France
The opening match of the Day 8 saw France battle to a fine draw against Pakistan, but it wasn’t enough for them to either leap-frog their opponents in the Pool A standings or change their quarter-final destiny.

Les Bleues finished fourth in Pool A behind third place finishers Pakistan, and now face the difficult task of beating the team that finishes top of Pool B if they are to reach the semi-finals and maintain hopes of taking one of the three guaranteed tickets to the HWL Final and Rio 2016 Olympics on offer here in Antwerp.

“France played well but we were quite sloppy, but I think that the whole of the game we had too many chanced that we missed”, said Greenshirts captain Mohammad Imran, who saw a first quarter penalty stroke brilliantly saved by France shot-stopper Martin Zylbermann. We will learn from our mistakes and plan for the quarter-final.”

India 2-6 Australia
Chris Ciriello scored a hat-trick of penalty corners as Australia sealed a first place finish in Pool A thanks to victory over India.

Legendary attacker Jamie Dwyer (pictured) rolled back the years with a candidate for goal of the day, with the 36-year-old five times FIH Player of the Year starting and finishing brilliant attack with a blistering backhand volley into the roof of P.R. Sreejesh’s goal.

Hat-trick hero Chris Ciriello said: “We spend 25 hours a week training and a lot of that time is spent flicking and doing set piece practice, and today I was lucky enough for a few of them to come off. We had quite a lot of opportunities so it was good to take some today, there is still a lot that we can improve on though.”

Pool B
Malaysia 1-3 Great Britain
Goals from David Condon, Ashley Jackson and Sam Ward helped Great Britain overcome a stubbornly resistant Malaysia to give themselves a minimum second place finish in Pool B.

The result helped GB move ahead of Malaysia in the Pool B standings, although the final position of both teams will not be known until the completion of the Belgium versus Ireland match later today.

Looking ahead to the next phase, Great Britain’s Alastair Brogdon said: “We’ll go into the quarter-finals feeling confident as we are unbeaten with two draws and two wins, and I think our performances are getting better which is something we’ll definitely take into the quarters.”

Belgium 2-1 Ireland
Team captain John-John Dohmen scored a crucial winner 25 seconds from time to give Belgium a 2-1 win against Ireland, securing a first place finish in Pool B and finalising the line-up for the competition quarter-finals in the process.

Dohmen raced clear and scored into an empty net after Ireland had removed exceptional goalkeeper Davey Harte in a last-gasp bid to claim all three points, giving Belgium’s Red Lions a hard-earned victory in front of 5000 cheering fans.

The dramatic finish to Pool B firmed up the line-up for the quarter-finals, with Belgium set to face France, who finished fourth in Pool A. For Ireland, a fourth place finish in Pool B means that they will now face Pool A winners Australia, the top ranked team in world hockey.

More details about the event including video clips, imagery and official competition info can be found on the event website.

#HWL2015 #RoadToRio

FIH site



Kookas top Pool A

Kookaburras beat India to finish top of Pool A ahead of quarter finals



The Kookaburras have finished on top of Pool A at the Hockey World League thanks to a 6-2 win over India in Antwerp.

Chris Ciriello’s hat-trick underpinned the result in a match that saw Jamie Dwyer find the roof of the net with a superb tomahawk strike from the top of the circle with Aran Zalewski and Kieran Govers also weighing in with goals.

The result sets up a must-win quarter final clash against the fourth placed team in Pool B – Ireland, who went down 2-1 to hosts Belgium in the last encounter of the pool phase.

Kookaburras coach Graham Reid was pleased with the performance and the improvement from the previous match against Poland.

He said, “That’s the sort of performance you need to have against these guys because they have improved and they are now a top nation. Every time you play them you need to make sure all your t’s are crossed and i’s are dotted.

“I was pleased with the effort and the energy that we played with in the first half. We took our foot off a bit in the third quarter but then we came back again and that was a really pleasing thing. We got a little bit frustrated but we got on top of that frustration, which we didn’t do against Poland. And then we came back again.”

Looking ahead to Wednesday's quarter final against Ireland (21:00hrs AEST), Reid added, “We haven’t played Ireland too often. They’re going to have something different. They play a lot like GB and that’s perhaps why Ireland drew with GB but proves they’re a very good team. We certainly will not be underestimating them.”

The fast starting Kookaburras broke the deadlock through Aran Zalewski’s slapped finish from the middle of the circle after excellent build-up play from Jamie Dwyer, who found Zalewski with time and space.

Dwyer then went from provider to scorer as he unleashed a stunning tomahawk strike into the roof of the net for 2-0 after being sent through by a pin point long pass from Blake Govers.

Jake Whetton was a constant menace to the Indian defence, which struggled to cope with his close control and jinking skills in the opening half. Twice he was denied by Indian goalkeeper Sreejesh before Chris Ciriello made it 3-0 from a penalty corner. Sreejesh saved the initial flick from Ciriello but the ball dropped back to the Victorian who calmly picked his spot in the bottom corner.

Ciriello doubled his tally shortly after half time with a flick that deflected into the left side of the goal before India responded immediately from a penalty corner of their own as Birendra Lakra scored on the rebound after Tyler Lovell’s initial save.

Kieran Govers smashed home from close range for 5-1 and Ciriello completed his hat-trick shortly before three quarter time, the ball finding the bottom corner off the glove of Sreejesh in the Indian goal.

India bagged a late consolation on the break through Ramandeep Singh, who tapped home after Dharamvir Singh had rounded Andrew Charter in the Australian goal but by then the outcome of the match was all but settled.

Hat-trick hero Chris Ciriello said, “It was a tough game. We had to fight pretty hard to get through. I’m happy enough today a couple of corners came off, which was nice. We worked pretty hard, we attacked down the outside and we went down the middle and they didn’t have many answers.”   

Hockey World League
Antwerp, Belgium

Pool A, Match 4

KOOKABURRAS: 6 (0)
Aran Zalewski 8 (FG)
Jamie Dwyer 14 (FG)
Chris Ciriello 26, 33, 44 (PC, PC, PC)
Kieran Govers 42 (FG)
 
INDIA: 2 (0)
Birendra Lakra 34 (PC)
Ramandeep Singh 51 (FG)
 
Kookaburras squad v India
Name (Hometown/State) Caps/Goals
Started       
Daniel Beale (Brisbane, QLD) 61/11
Chris Ciriello (Melbourne, VIC) 167/109
Jamie Dwyer (Rockhampton, QLD) 338/221
Matt Gohdes (Rockhampton, QLD) 128/38
Kieran Govers (Wollongong, NSW) 105/56
Fergus Kavanagh (Geraldton, WA) 203/14
Mark Knowles (Rockhampton, QLD) 262/22
Tyler Lovell (Perth, WA) 47/0
Eddie Ockenden (Hobart, TAS) 249/62
Jake Whetton (Brisbane, QLD) 94/40
Tristan White (Wollongong, NSW) 60/3        

Used Substitutes
Kiel Brown (Toowoomba, QLD) 165/6
Andrew Charter (Canberra, ACT) 95/0
Blake Govers (Wollongong, NSW) 10/9
Simon Orchard (Maitland, NSW) 175/53
Matthew Swann (Mackay, QLD) 119/6
Aran Zalewski (Margaret River, WA) 63/6
                         
Unused Substitutes
Tim Deavin (Launceston, TAS) 110/5

Hockey Australia media release



India goes down 2-6 to Australia

s2h team

After winning two matches and drawing against Pakistan, the Indian Men Hockey team today went down to Australia by 2-6 in their last Pool A league match of the FINTRO Hockey World League Semi-Final 2015, being played in Antwerp, Belgium. Australia’s Chris Ciriello scored a hat-trick and helped the FIH Rank # 1 team to remain unbeaten in the tournament, leading the Pool with 12 points. On the other hand, India placed at second position in the Pool with seven points and is now looking at their quarter-final clash.

In the first quarter of the match, both the teams started the match with good attack, testing the strength of each other. Australia got the first success in the 8th minute when Jamie Dwyer charged from the right and passed the ball to Aran Zalewski, who smashed the ball toward the goal-box without giving any chance to Indian defenders and taking the lead of 1-0. After conceding the early goal, the Indians counter-attacked from all sides and put a pressure on their opponents. In the 14th minute, Australia charged again with Dwyer and the experienced Australian dribbled-past the Indian defenders before hitting the ball toward the goal-box from the top of the circle. The ball went over goalie Sreejesh and found the nets. With Jamie’s brilliant shot, Australia scored their second goal and increased the lead by 2-0 by the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter, the teams stepped on the green astro-turf with more aggression. Indian players attacked in the first few minutes and created a few good chances to score goals. The Indian players managed to make some good moves and almost close to score. However, Australian defenders failed their attempts and played with the man-to-man strategy. In the 26th minute, Australia earned a penalty corner and Chris Ciriello hit the shot toward the nets, but Sreejesh hit back the ball. Ciriello's rebound shot this time yielded results. Trailing by 0-3 by this time, India fought back harder and charged with more aggression. They put Aussies in pressure for a few moments and kept on working on their game-plans to score goals. On the other hand, Australia continued with their attacking game and penetrated the Indian circle several times. However, Sreejesh thwarted many chances of the opponents. After a closely-fought battle, the quarter finished at 3-0 in favor of Australia.

In the third quarter, both the teams played with better strategies and new game-plans. The Indians continued with their aggressive game and kept the opponents busy. However, Australia also showcased their fighting spirit and looked for more opportunities to score goals. In the 33rd minute, Australia managed to earn a penalty corner and Ciriello again took the shot. He hit straight into the goal box, beating the Indian defenders, and scored the fourth goal for his team. However in the next minute (34th), India earned a penalty corner and Jasjit Singh Kular took the shot. He smashed the ball hard but Aussie custodian hit back the ball towards the Indian pack. Defender Birendra Lakra received the ball and hit it with a reverse shot to score the first goal for his team. Conceding the goal, the Australians fought back and attacked from the centre again. In the 42nd minute, Australia’s Matt Gohdes charged from the centre and hit the ball toward the goal-box from the top of the circle. His team-mate Kieran Govers, who was standing in front of the goal-box, received the ball and sent it into the nets by beating Sreejesh for the fifth goal. The Australians continued with their quick counter-attacks and kept on creating chances to increase their lead. After two minutes (44th), the Aussie's earned another penalty corner and once again, Ciriello converted it into his hat-trick goal, taking the score-line to 6-1.

In the fourth quarter, the Australians continued their domination and tried to keep the ball in the Indian half. In the 51st minute,the Indians, led by Akashdeep Singh, charged on the Australian side from the left flank. Akashdeep passed the ball to skipper Sardar Singh in the circle, who forwarded the ball to Dharamvir Singh. Dharamvir took the ball to his right and dribbled-past the Aussie goalie before hitting the ball towards the nets. Ramandeep, who was standing near the left goal-post, deflected the shot into the nets. With this brilliant team-work, the Indians reduced the margin to 2-6. By this motivating goal, the Indians charged on with more aggression and played their game in the Australian half. However, Australia denied their attacks and maintained the score-card of 6-2 till the final whistle.

The Quarter-Final round of the FINTRO Hockey World League Semi-Final 2015 will start on 30th June 2015.

Stick2Hockey.com



Rampaging Australia flick India for a six


India had a harrowing time against the Australians who pumped in six goals. India did pull back two but it was no consolation. File photo

Antwerp: India's defence caved in under pressure as a rampaging Australia crushed them 6-2 in the last league fixture of the FIH World League Semifinals here on Sunday.

Penalty corner shooter Chris Ciriello's three conversions set world champions Australia on course for a runaway victory that placed them atop Group A with four straight wins, while India finished second with seven points from four matches.

Birender Lakra (34th minute) and Ramandeep Singh (51st) reduced the margin for India in the match, which was dominated by the world No. 1 side.

Australia opened the scoring in the eighth minute, capitalising on the slow reaction of the Indian defenders after a foul at the top of their circle. The Indian defenders were yet to get into positions when Jamie Dwyer saw an opening and sent a crisp square ball to Aran Zalewski, whose flash strike saw Australia off the mark.

India had a look at the Australian goal in the 13th minute when Devindar Walmiki's fine run took him into the circle from left, but he could not produce a good shot in the crowded goalmouth.

A minute later, Dwyer increased the Australian lead when he darted alone into the circle and created space by moving sideways before defeating goalkeeper PR Sreejesh with a firm reverse hit into the net.

A penalty corner strike by Ciriello, his first of the match, gave Australia their third goal in the 26th minute. Ciriello's initial shot was padded back by the custodian, but he made no mistake in placing it into the left corner of the boards.

Ciriello got his second goal three minutes into the second half when his shot deflected off onrushing defender Manpreet Singh into the left corner of the goal.

India pulled one goal back in the 34th minute on their first penalty corner. The rising drag-flick by Jasjit Singh was palmed by Australian custodian Tyril Lovell, but Birendra Lakra capitalised on the rebound to score with a reverse shot.

Kieran Govers flicked the ball home from the goalkeeper's feet in goalmouth scrimmage in the 43rd minute and Ciriello returned to goal-scoring action with his third penalty corner conversion in the 44th minute to make it 6-1.

India managed to create some decent moves in the last stages of the match and were rewarded with their second goal on a move created by captain Sardar Singh.

Picking up Sardar's pass, Dharamvir Singh moved into the circle and sent a cross for Ramandeep Singh who deflected it into the goal.

Pakistan finished third in the group after squandering a penalty stroke and missing chances galore in open play to be held to a 2-2 draw by France.

In the closing stages, it was France who were pressing hard for an elusive winner that could have lifted them above Pakistan in the group standings.

The Tribune



India finish second in Pool A after 2-6 loss to Australia

ANTWERP (Belgium): World champions Australia maintained their dominance in the Hockey World League Semi-Final 2015 by finishing the league stages unbeaten and with 12 points, after thrashing India 6-2 in their final Pool A game at Antwerp, Belgium on Sunday.

Australia rode on three goals from Chris Ciriello and handed India their first defeat of the tournament. India finished second in the Pool with seven points. The World number one team dictated terms right from the start and their attacking brand of hockey was too much for the inexperienced Indian defence to handle. However, India managed to reduce the deficit with some gritty play in the final two quarters. Birendra Lakra scored in the third quarter while forward Ramandeep found the net for the fourth time in the tournament late in the fourth quarter.

In the first quarter of the match, both the teams started the match with good attack, testing the strength of each other. Australia got the first success in the 8th minute when Jamie Dwyer charged from the right and passed the ball to Aran Zalewski, who smashed the ball toward the goal-box without giving any chance to Indian defenders and taking the lead of 1-0. After conceding the early goal, the Indians counter-attacked from all sides and put a pressure on their opponents.

In the 14th minute, Australia charged again with Dwyer and the experienced Australian dribbled-past the Indian defenders before hitting the ball toward the goal-box from the top of the circle. The ball went over goalie Sreejesh and found the nets. With Jamie's brilliant shot, Australia scored their second goal and increased the lead by 2-0 by the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter, the teams stepped on the green astro-turf with more aggression. Indian players attacked in the first few minutes and created a few good chances to score goals. The Indian players managed to make some good moves and almost close to score. However, Australian defenders failed their attempts and played with the man-to-man strategy. In the 26th minute, Australia earned a penalty corner and Chris Ciriello hit the shot toward the nets, but Sreejesh hit back the ball. Ciriello's rebound shot this time yielded results.

Trailing by 0-3 by this time, India fought back harder and charged with more aggression. They put Aussies in pressure for a few moments and kept on working on their game-plans to score goals. On the other hand, Australia continued with their attacking game and penetrated the Indian circle several times. However, Sreejesh thwarted many chances of the opponents. After a closely-fought battle, the quarter finished at 3-0 in favor of Australia.

In the third quarter, both the teams played with better strategies and new game-plans. The Indians continued with their aggressive game and kept the opponents busy. However, Australia also showcased their fighting spirit and looked for more opportunities to score goals. In the 33rd minute, Australia managed to earn a penalty corner and Ciriello again took the shot. He hit straight into the goal box, beating the Indian defenders, and scored the fourth goal for his team. However in the next minute (34th), India earned a penalty corner and Jasjit Singh Kular took the shot. He smashed the ball hard but Aussie custodian hit back the ball towards the Indian pack.

Defender Birendra Lakra received the ball and hit it with a reverse shot to score the first goal for his team. Conceding the goal, the Australians fought back and attacked from the centre again. In the 42nd minute, Australia's Matt Gohdes charged from the centre and hit the ball toward the goal-box from the top of the circle. His team-mate Kieran Govers, who was standing in front of the goal-box, received the ball and sent it into the nets by beating Sreejesh for the fifth goal. The Australians continued with their quick counter-attacks and kept on creating chances to increase their lead. After two minutes (44th), the Aussie's earned another penalty corner and once again, Ciriello converted it into his hat-trick goal, taking the score-line to 6-1.

In the fourth quarter, the Australians continued their domination and tried to keep the ball in the Indian half. In the 51st minute,the Indians, led by Akashdeep Singh, charged on the Australian side from the left flank. Akashdeep passed the ball to skipper Sardar Singh in the circle, who forwarded the ball to Dharamvir Singh. Dharamvir took the ball to his right and dribbled-past the Aussie goalie before hitting the ball towards the nets. Ramandeep, who was standing near the left goal-post, deflected the shot into the nets.

With this brilliant team-work, the Indians reduced the margin to 2-6. By this motivating goal, the Indians charged on with more aggression and played their game in the Australian half. However, Australia denied their attacks and maintained the score-card of 6-2 till the final whistle.

The Times of India



Nerves and high rhythm caught India off-guard: Van Ass

ANTWERP: India hockey coach Paul van Ass said inability to handle fast-paced attack resulted in his side's capitulation against World champions Australia in the FIH World League Semifinals, on Sunday.

"Frayed nerves and inability to cope with the high rhythm set by the Australians hurt us very badly at the start of the match," said van Ass after India were hammered 6-2 by Australia in the last preliminary match.

Australia rode on a three-goal feat by penalty corner shooter Chris Ciriello to complete an all-win record in Group A. India got the second spot in the pool with seven points from four matches.

Pakistan and France are the other teams to qualify for the quarterfinals from the five-team group.

Letting in two early goals, India were pushed back to defend their citadel against the speedy Australian strikers, which van Ass said was expected to happen.

"We got caught in the high rhythm. We knew it could happen, but gave away too much and got hammered," said van Ass, adding that the Indians were okay after the first 15 minutes.

"We have to be realistic. After all, they are world No. 1 and we are No. 9 in the international rankings," said the coach, who recently took up the Indian assignment.

Van Ass is a former national coach from The Netherlands and replaced Australian Terry Walsh as India's chief coach. His first tournament was the Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh two months ago.

Van Ass has the luxury of experimenting and teaching new strategies to his new wards as India had already qualified for the 2016 Olympic Games by virtue of winning the Asian Games in Incheon last year.

Indian captain Sardar Singh, who set up the move that saw them score the last goal of the match against the run of play, said his strikers need to capitalise on the opening that come their way.

"We got a few chances, but we've got to convert them. Australia they used their openings better," said Sardar.

The Times of India



Valuable lessons learnt ahead of quarterfinal: Paul van Ass

ANTWERP (Belgium): Indian coach Paul van Ass is imploring his wards to be fast learners and take the lessons from the preliminary round into the encounter against Malaysia in the Hockey World League Semifinals.

Asian Games gold medallists India are aware of the threat posed in Wednesday's quarterfinal contest by Malaysia, who will draw confidence for the 3-2 victory in the last encounter between them during the Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh two months ago.

Starting with unimpressive wins over France and Poland, the misfiring Indians were held to a 2-2 draw by sub-continental rivals Pakistan before being at the receiving end of a 2-6 drubbing at the hands of World champions Australia in the last league match on Sunday.

Australia stamped their authority over India with two early goals, leaving India with plenty of work to do in deep defence.

"We ought to take the lessons learnt from this game into the quarterfinal contest with Malaysia," said van Ass, aware that any let-up will give Malaysia an opening to capitalise upon.

"There were some valuable lessons learnt during the pool matches here."

"We have got hammered when we did not play well, this must not be forgotten," said van Ass, who can afford not to get too tense ahead of this encounter as India's place in next year's Olympic Games is not entirely dependent upon this knock-out fixture.

Having already qualified for the Rio Olympics by virtue of their Asian Games gold medal, India came into the tournament with long-term perspective in mind. Giving a good show despite the presence of several youngsters in the squad is one of the targets set by van Ass, who took over as India's coach just a few months ago.

"We should be able to set the pace of the match," said van Ass as he braces for the game against Malaysia. "Against Australia, we could do little when we got caught in the rhythm set by the World champions."

Australia, who last year completed a hat-trick of three consecutive World Cup victories, duly took their appointed position atop the Pool A standings with the maximum 12 points from four outings, while India finished second with seven points. Pakistan and France were the other two teams to make the quarterfinals from this pool.

But the quarterfinal lineup was not known until the last minute of the Belgium-Ireland fixture last evening, which Belgium won 2-1.
Belgium's match-winner came 25 seconds before the hooter, and that too when Ireland threw caution to the wind by taking off the goalkeeper to put in an additional strikers on the turf.

Belgium finished with 10 points by virtue of that last-minute goal, followed by Great Britain on eight points and Malaysia on six. France ended with four points. The Irish went out looking for a victory that would have lifted to the third spot.

Losing or drawing against Belgium would not have changed the placing for Ireland, hence they made the desperate gamble in the final stages. Had the Irish not conceded the last goal, this match would have ended in a draw and Belgium would have slipped to the second spot with Britain securing the top slot on basis of a superior goal difference.

Britain were 25 seconds away from a quarterfinal matchup with minnows France, but now head into a potentially stirring encounter with three-time Olympic champions Pakistan, for whom this tournament is the last chance to qualify for Rio de Janeiro.

Quarterfinal lineup: Australia vs Ireland; India vs Malaysia; Pakistan vs Great Britain; Belgium vs France.

The Times of India



Gurbaj Singh completes his 200th international cap for India

ANTWERP (Belgium): India midfielder Gurbaj Singh added another feather in his cap as he played his 200th international match when he took the field against Australia in the FIH Hockey World League Semi-Final here on Sunday.

The 26-year-old Gurbaj, who made his international debut in 2006 Doha Asian Games, is a regular member of national hockey team and has been a part of the team in various international tournaments.

He was a part of the winning team in the 2007 Asia Cup in Chennai. Represented India at the 2010 Hero World Cup and 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, the 2010 Guangzhou Asian Games in China and the 2012 London Olympics.

In 2014, Gurbaj was a key member of the gold medal winning team at Incheon Asian Games and fourth-place finished side in the Hero Men's Champions Trophy in Bhubaneswar.

Congratulating Gurbaj on his achievement, Hockey India secretary general Md. Mushtaque Ahmad said, "Hockey India is extremely delighted for Gurbaj Singh's achievement of 200 international matches. He has been an integral part of Indian team and always gives his best performance in matches of all levels. His journey from a young player in the junior team to an experienced senior member, has seen many successes where he has played a vital role towards the team's performance.

"Hockey India takes this opportunity in congratulating Gurbaj on his accomplishment of 200 International Caps. We wish him all the best for the upcoming tournaments and hope to see him bringing more achievements for Team India."

The Times of India



Patient Great Britain seal Malaysia win


David Condon in action

A goalkeeping master class from Malaysia’s Roslan Jamaluddin ultimately proved in vain as second half goals from David Condon, Ashley Jackson and Sam Ward overturned a half time deficit to steer Great Britain to a 3-1 win. Bobby Crutchley’s side had trailed at the break thanks to Muhammed Shamsul’s 14th minute strike, but GB’s patience and an improved second half display paid off and sent them into the quarter finals unbeaten.

Great Britain came out with a clear attacking intent with Ashley Jackson at the heart of everything they did in the opening exchanges. The first chance fell to Adam Dixon who cut inside and hit a backhand strike but he couldn’t get a clean connection and the ball was cleared. Tim Whiteman ventured forwards and was picked out by Jackson but from a tight angle the Beeston man couldn’t force the ball past Roslan Jamaluddin. A minute before the break Great Britain fell behind from the first meaningful attack by Malaysia. Muhammed Shamsul found space in the circle and hit the net with a backhand strike that crept inside the near post.

Great Britain kept up the pressure in the second quarter as they hunted the equaliser. Nick Catlin’s shot flashed over the top and then Jamaluddin did well to block from Barry Middleton after another superb run and pass by Jackson.

The goalkeeper then excelled himself twice in quick succession to repel a strike from Condon and then to turn a powerful Iain Lewers shot over the top from the rebound. Despite dominating the game, Bobby Crutchley’s side went in at the half time break trailing.

Great Britain forced a penalty corner in the first minute after the interval. The routine broke down but Mark Gleghorne fed Jackson whose shot was saved. Condon reacted first to snap up the rebound and level the scores.

Moments later a great run by Sam Ward caused the Malaysian defence problems. Jamaluddin saved from Ward but the ball broke to Chris Griffiths with the goal gaping. The goalkeeper threw himself back into the goalmouth to make an incredible save to keep the scores level. With just over three minutes left in the quarter Jackson won another penalty corner. The No7 went for goal but his flick went wide of the target.

Malaysia went down to nine men at the start of the final quarter and Condon almost capitalized with a snapshot that went just wide. With four minutes gone in the final quarter Great Britain won another penalty corner. Malaysia asked for a referral which was turned down. Jackson stepped up and found the net with a deflected effort to give his side the lead for the first time in the match. A minute later and it was 3-1. After a good advantage from the umpire, Alastair Brogdon supplied the cross for Sam Ward to swivel and fire the ball through the goalkeeper’s legs for his third of the competition. Jamaluddin did well to block another effort from Griffiths as GB looked for a fourth in the closing minutes, but with the goalkeeper in superb form they were frustrated in their attempts, settling instead for a 3-1 win.

Great Britain must now await the completion of other pool games to see who they will play in the quarter finals on Wednesday.

Quotes – Great Britain goalscorer Ashley Jackson

We knew they would come out hard as they’re a very good team, which they’ve shown in the tournament already. The first half didn’t go the way we wanted, we weren’t patient enough. In the second half we controlled the game and waited for our opportunities to come and got the job done. Percentage wise for corners, we’re pretty good. We had a broken move that still went in and it seems we’re getting goals from our set pieces. We’re confident with our corners and hopefully that will continue.

Great Britain Head Coach – Bobby Crutchley

They played very deep so it was always going to be difficult to open them up. We had to be patient, and improve our quality in the second half which we did. We gave them some opportunities to counterattack in the first half so we had to cut that out, in order to deny them chances. We could have had a couple more goals, but overall I’m very pleased.

I was confident the goals would come as long as we stuck to our game plan. The challenge in those games is that chances are often not clear cut, so we just needed to be ready to put the ones we did get away. The goals were never going to be pretty, flowing moves but we got what we needed and that’s what mattered.

You’d say most people want to avoid Australia, but having said that we focused on ourselves and keeping our momentum rather than what might happen on Wednesday. We’ve finished the pool unbeaten, so on the whole I’m happy, but there is still plenty of work to do.

Great Britain 3 (0)
David Condon 31 (PC)
Ashley Jackson 49 (PC)
Sam Ward 50 (FG)

Malaysia 1 (1)
Muhammad Shamsul 14 (FG)

Great Britain Hockey media release



Team GB maintain unbeaten World League run with 3-1 win over Malaysia

By Mike Haymonds


David Condon celebrates Team GB's equaliser. Frank Uijlenbroek

GOALS from David Condon, Ashley Jackson and Sam Ward in a 3-1 win against Malaysia in their final pool game maintained Great Britain men's unbeaten record at the World League semi-final, also an Olympic Qualifier, in Antwerp.

After a win and two draws in their previous games this was a more convincing victory, coming from a goal down, which clinched GB's quarter-final place and took them a step nearer to a Rio 2016 berth.

It was GB's 14th win (with seven draws) in 23 meetings with Malaysia and their eighth success since their last defeat in 1996.

GB made a strong start to the first quarter but could not find a way through a well organised Malaysian defence.

GB's best chance in the opening period came from a dribble into the D by Chris Griffiths but his shot across goal found no taker.

Malaysia opened the scoring from their first meaningful attack through Muhammad Shamsul just before the first break.

GB had the most possession in the second quarter and came closest when a backhand shot by Adam Dixon was tipped over the bar by Malaysia's keeper Roslan Jamaluddin, who the did the same to an Iain Lewers effort.

GB got an equaliser a minute into the second half from their first penalty corner when Condon fired home the rebound from a Jackson shot and, as they continued to dominate the third quarter, their next two penalty corners brought no reward.

The victory was sealed in the final period with two goals in a minute from a Jackson corner drag flick and a strike by Ward.


Ian Lewers won his 50th Team GB cap today. Frank Uijlenbroek

After hosts Belgium beat Ireland with a last minute score in a 2-1 victory to take top place in the pool, GB's second place sees them face Pakistan in Wednesday'squarter-final.

GB coach Bobby Crutchley said: " Malaysia played very deep so it was always going to be difficult to open them up. We had to be patient and improve our quality in the second half which we did.

"We gave them some opportunities to counter attack in the first half so we had to cut that out, to deny them chances.

"We could have had a couple more goals but, overall, I'm very pleased.

"I was confident the goals would come as long as we stuck to our game plan. The challenge in those games is that choices are often not clear cut, so we just needed to be ready to put away the ones we did get.

http://cdn.images.express.co.uk/img/dynamic/4/590x/secondary/Team-GB-Hockey-World-League-Hockey-Hockey-Hockey-Results-England-v-Malaysia-309788.jpg
Bobby Crutchley gets into the players at half time. Frank Uijlenbroek

"The goals were never going to be pretty, flowing moves but we got what we needed and that's what mattered.

"You'd say most people want to avoid Australia but, having said that, we focused on ourselves and keeping our momentum rather than what might happen on Wednesday.

"We've finished the pool unbeaten so, on the whole, I'm happy but there is still plenty to do."

Ashley Jackson said: "The first half didn't go the way we wanted. We weren't patient enough. In the second half we controlled the game and waited for our opportunities to come and we got the job done.

"Percentage wise, for corners we're pretty good. We had a broken move which still went in and it seems we're getting goals from set pieces."

The Express



Great Britain men draw Pakistan as umpire costs Ireland chance of win

A controversial umpiring decision cost Ireland in Antwerp, Belgium while Great Britain's route to Rio Olympics made tougher
           
By Rod Gilmour


In on the act: Great Britain finished pool stages unbeaten after 3-1 win over Malaysia Photo: WORLDSPORTPICS.COM

Great Britain men were denied a potential quarter-final with lowly-ranked France and will instead face Pakistan in the World League after controversy in Antwerp, Belgium on Sunday night.

Hosts Belgium finished top of the pool after the video umpire refused a clear penalty corner for Ireland, who needed a win to avoid world champions Australia in the last eight.

The Irish then took off their goalkeeper and captain, David Harte, with the score locked at 1-1. Belgium deep in their half, advanced up field and scored in the dying seconds through John-John Dohmen.

Ireland's Peter Caruth did well to hold back his clear disappointment with a rueful smile when interviewed after the final hooter.

"We are a bit gutted at the end result,” said Caruth. “We played very well and dug in hard, but some of the decisions just didn't go our way today."

Earlier, Great Britain produced their required win – 3-1 against Malaysia – to remain unbeaten from their four pool matches.

Second-half goals from David Condon, Ashley Jackson and Sam Ward atoned for a first period which saw Malaysia take the lead before an impressive performance by goalkeeper Roslan Jamaluddin.

“We knew they would come out hard as they’re a very good team, which they’ve shown in the tournament already,” said Jackson.

“The first half didn’t go the way we wanted, we weren’t patient enough. In the second half we controlled the game and waited for our opportunities to come and got the job done.”

Great Britain’s three goals came within a 19-minute period at the start of the second-half, the first two rifled home through penalty corners.

“Percentage wise for corners, we’re pretty good,” admitted Jackson. “We had a broken move that still went in and it seems we’re getting goals from our set pieces. We’re confident with our corners and hopefully that will continue.”

Australia remain the form team in Antwerp after finishing top of the other pool with a 6-2 win over India.

Chris Ciriello’s hat-trick and a splendid goal from Jamie Dwyer, who found the roof of the net with a tomahawk strike from the top of the circle, were the highlights.

The quarter-finals take place on Wednesday and Great Britain must win to maintain their hopes of qualifying automatically for the Rio 2016 Olympics.

The Telegraph



Malaysia just not good enough against Britain

by S. Ramaguru


Malaysia's Faiz Jali (left) face up to Britain's Nick Catlin in their Group B match at the World Hockey League Semi-Final hockey tournament in Belgium on Sunday. Malaysia lost 3-1. - pic by FIH

ANTWERP: Out-hustled and out-muscled, Malaysia’s hopes of gaining a point in their final Group B match went up in smoke.

In a fight to determine a higher position in the group came undone for the Malaysians who lost 1-3 to Britain at the World Hockey League Semi-Finals at the KHC Dragons Stadium on Sunday.

The Malaysians started off well but crumbled in the last two quarters under Britain’s unrelenting barrage to end up third in the group with six points, ahead of Ireland (4 points), who lost to group champions Belgium 2-1.

Malaysia’s points came through wins over China (3-2) and Ireland (4-2).

Malaysia will now meet India in the quarter-finals on Wednesday. The other quarter-final matches are Australia v Ireland; Pakistan v Britain and France v Belgium.

Against Britain, Malaysia grabbed the lead against the run of play in the 14th minute. Mohamed Haziq Shamsul scored with a rising reverse-stick shot past goalkeeper George Pinner.

Undaunted, Britain upped the tempo and equalised in the 31st minute right after halftime from their first penalty corner. Goalkeeper Roslan Jamaluddin managed to save Barry Middleton’s shot, but David Condon was fastest to the rebound to slot the ball home.

The British were coming fast and furious. In the 38th minute, Roslan saved a sure goal on the line to keep the Malaysians in the game.

But in the 49th minute, Malaysia were in trouble again after conceding their second penalty corner. There was nothing Roslan could do to stop Ashley Jackson’s direct flick.

One minute later, Britain went 3-1 up. Sam Ward was on target with a field goal.

From then onwards, it was Britain all the way as Malaysia failed to get a single shot at goal in the last quarter.

Understandably, team manager Stephen van Huizen was disappointed.

“We did not play well especially in the third and fourth quarters. There were some areas where we were not good and we conceded the goals when skipper Razie Rahim was yellow carded,” said Stephen.

“Now it is a waiting game on whom we meet in the last eight. But we have to be ready. It could be India or even Australia,” he added.

Britain coach Bobby Crutchley was pleased as punch after ending their group stage without a defeat.

“It was a tough match. But I am pleased with the way we came back in the last quarter. Now we can look forward to the next match with confidence.”

The Star of Malaysia



France hold Pakistan to 2-2 draw in HWL semi-finals


Mohammad Imran's missed penalty cost Pakistan the game in the end - Photo courtesy FIH

Pakistan hopes of finishing second in Pool A were dashed by a spirited France side as the teams played out a 2-2 draw on day 8 of the Hockey World League Semi-finals in Antwerp, Belgium, on Sunday.

Pakistan had only themselves to blame for not closing out the game, the Greenshirts missing several opportunities in front of goal. Captain Mohammad Imran missed from the spot after Les Bleus gifted their opponents a penalty stroke in the first quarter.

But it was France which lead the match twice thanks to goals by Simon Martin Brisac and Charles Masson.

Pakistan restored the parity through goals from Waqas Sharif and Mohammad Dilber but it was a game which they really should have won.

Pakistan finished the pool phase in third place and will face the team that finished second in Pool B in the cross-over quarter-finals.

“France played well but we were quite sloppy. I think in the whole of the game we had too many chanced that we missed,” said Greenshirts captain Imran after the match.

“We will learn from our mistakes and plan for the quarter-final.”

The Hockey World League Semi-finals, a qualification tournament for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, kick off from July 1.

Dawn



Disappointing performance as Pakistan play 2-2 draw against France

Greenshirts to play tough quarterfinal against Britain on Wednesday

By Muhammad Ali

ANTWERP: Mohammad Imran and his charges gave a disappointing performance as Pakistan's last Pool A match of the Hockey World League against France ended in a 2-2 draw at KHC Dragons Stadium here on Sunday. In other matches of the day, Australia thrashed India 6-2 in Pool A while Britain overcame Malaysia 3-1 and Belgium outplayed Ireland 2-1 in Pool B. The last pool matches yesterday also finalised the line-up for the quarterfinals to be played on July 1 (Wednesday): Australia will face Ireland, Pakistan will be up against Britain, India will take on Malaysia while Belgium will clash with France. The tournament is the Olympic qualifying round for the Rio Summer Games 2016.

Pakistan were expected to down their opponents with good margin but spirited France gave the greenshirts a run for their money and battled to a fine draw. Pakistan, who had only themselves to blame for not closing out the game, missed several opportunities. The result was not enough for Pakistan to leap-frog their archrivals India in the Pool A standings. Pakistan, who finished at third spot with 6 points in their pool, will now take on strong side Britain, who could prove a hard nut to crack, in the last eight stage. Pakistan won against Poland 2-1, lost to Australia 1-6 and played 2-2 drawn game against archrivals India.

The match started on a fast pace and the passing, coordination and body language of France were much better than Pakistan. France twice lead the match thanks to Simon Martin Brisac and Charles Masson. But Pakistan equalised through Mohammad Waqas and Mohammad Dilber. Pakistan failed to convert two penalty corners and also one penalty stroke. “France played well but we were quite sloppy. We also missed too many chances,” said Pakistan captain Imran. “We will learn from our mistakes and hope not repeat them in the quarterfinal.”

France, who finished fourth in Pool A, now face the difficult task of beating Belgium who finished top of Pool B if they are to reach the semi-finals and maintain hopes of taking one of the three guaranteed tickets to the HWL Final and Rio 2016 Olympics on offer here in Antwerp. Reflecting on the match, France captain Tom Genestet felt it was a case of what might have been. “I think we didn’t hold the ball good enough during the first half. We are disappointed not win the match. But we have to stay focussed for the quarterfinal match on Wednesday because that is the most important game.”

Pakistan were not able to qualify for the Rio Olympics after they finished second in the last Asian Games in Incheon, South Korea in 2014. Pakistan lost the final to India on penalty shoot-out 2-4 are now taking part in the tough Olympic Qualifiers. Pakistan have played at every Olympics since their first appearance in 1948. Pakistan had failed to feature among the 12 teams for the 2014 World Cup, an event that they have won more times than any other country. Behind India’s eight gold medals and Germany’s four titles, including one by West Germany , Pakistan are the most successful team in Olympic history. Pakistan have won three gold medals out of their six appearances in the title contest at the Olympics, but are now facing a stiff challenge to qualify for the 2016 Summer Games.

Australia thrash India 6-2: Chris Ciriello scored a hat-trick of penalty corners as Australia sealed a first place finish in Pool A thanks to 6-2 victory over India. Australia dictated terms right from the start and their attacking brand of hockey was too much for the inexperienced Indian defence to handle. However, India managed to reduce the deficit with some gritty play in the final two quarters. Jamie Dwyer, Aran Zalewski and Kieran Govers were also on target for the Kookaburras. Birendra Lakra and Ramandeep Singh were the scorers for India.

Britain tame Malaysia 3-1: Goals from David Condon, Ashley Jackson and Sam Ward helped Britain overcome a stubbornly resistant Malaysia 3-1 in Pool B. The result helped Britain move ahead of Malaysia in the Pool B standings. Malaysia opened the scoring in a pacy, end-to-end encounter with Muhammad Shamsul crashing a brilliant backhand past Great Britain goalkeeper George Pinner from a tight angle before David Condon levelled the scores moments after half time. A yellow card for Malaysia captain Rahim Razie just seconds into the fourth quarter proved to be costly, with Britain killing the game off through Jackson and Ward.

Belgium outplay Ireland 2-1: Captain John-John Dohmen scored a crucial winner 25 seconds from time to give Belgium 2-1 victory against Ireland, securing a first place finish in Pool B. Dohmen raced clear and scored into an empty net after Ireland had removed exceptional goalkeeper Davey Harte in a last-gasp bid to claim all three points, giving Belgium’s Red Lions a hard-earned victory in front of 5000 cheering fans. The two sides had remained locked together for most of the match, with Ireland’s penalty corner star Shane O’Donoghue cancelling out an earlier effort from Belgium’s Loick Luypart.

The Daily Times



Pakistan secure third place after draw

By Nabil Tahir


Pakistan's players look on during the Group A field hockey match between Pakistan and India of the men's group stage of the World League semi-final in Brasschaat on June 26, 2015. PHOTO: AFP

KARACHI: Pakistan extended their run in the Hockey World League semi-finals and comfortably secured third place after an electrifying 2-2 draw against France in the last Pool A match at the KHC Dragon Hockey Ground in Antwerp, Belgium on Sunday.

Both teams had endured a goalless first quarter before France’s Simon Martin Brisac drew first blood in the 21st minute. Then onwards, both teams went in a frenzy which saw three goals — two from Pakistan and one from France — being scored in a matter of nine minutes as both sides looked to finish the pool stages in third place and avoid a clash with the top team from Pool B in the quarter-finals.

Ali Shan’s stinging strike from outside the D area was neatly deflected into the net by Muhammad Waqas Sharif in the 36th minute as Pakistan equalised, while Charles Masson added another for France just two minutes later to re-establish their one-goal lead.

Pakistan replied to the setback by increasingly dominating possession, and the move paid off seven minutes later when Dilber Hussain dragged the ball with a reverse flick to beat the French goalkeeper and end the game at 2-2.

Read: World Hockey League: Pakistan, India pull 2-2 draw in crucial clash

Pakistan skipper Muhammad Imran, who made a decisive save to deny the French a goal from a penalty corner, rued the missed chances but was satisfied by the team’s overall performance.

“Both sides played really well and even though we were a bit off in the beginning, we gained momentum from thereon,” Imran told The Express Tribune. “We missed some easy chances which we will avoid in the more crucial stages.”

The Greenshirts, who had already qualified for the quarter-finals, needed a draw against France to secure third place and will now face Great Britain on July 1 after the 1988 Summer Olympics gold medallists defeated Malaysia 3-1 in the Pool B match.

The Express Tribune



Pakistan scrape draw against France as Aussies maul India

ANTWERP - The opening match of the Day 8 at the FINTRO Hockey World League Semi-Final saw France battle to a fine draw against Pakistan, but it wasn’t enough for them to leap-frog their opponents in the Pool A standings. France twice lead the match thanks to Simon Martin Brisac and Charles Masson, but Muhammad Waqas and Muhammad Dilber pulled the Greenshirts level on both occasions, ensuring that Pakistan finished the pool phase in third place and will face the team that finished second in Pool B in the cross-over quarter-finals.

Les Bleues finished fourth in Pool A, and now face the difficult task of beating the team that finishes top of Pool B if they are to reach the semi-finals and maintain hopes of taking one of the three guaranteed tickets to the HWL Final and Rio 2016 Olympics on offer here in Antwerp.

Reflecting on the match, France captain Tom Genestet felt it was a case of what might have been. “I think we didn’t hold the ball good enough during the first half”, said the midfielder. “We are disappointed but we have to stay focussed for the quarter-final match on Wednesday because that is the most important game.”

“France played well but we were quite sloppy, but I think that the whole of the game we had too many chanced that we missed”, said Greenshirts captain Mohammad Imran, who saw a first quarter penalty stroke brilliantly saved by France shot-stopper Martin Zylbermann. "We will learn from our mistakes and plan for the quarter-final.”

Chris Ciriello scored a hat-trick of penalty corners as Australia sealed a first place finish in Pool A thanks to victory over India. Jamie Dwyer, Aran Zalewski and Kieran Govers were also on target for the Kookaburras to set up a quarter-final showdown with the team that finishes fourth in Pool B.

Legendary attacker Dwyer rolled back the years with a candidate for goal of the day, with the 36-year-old five times FIH Player of the Year starting and finishing brilliant attack with a blistering backhand volley into the roof of P.R. Sreejesh’s goal. Birendra Lakra and Ramandeep Singh were on target for India, who finished second in Pool A and will play the 3rd placed team from Pool B in the quarter-finals.

Goals from David Condon, Ashley Jackson and Sam Ward helped Great Britain overcome a stubbornly resistant Malaysia to give themselves a minimum second place finish in Pool B thanks to a 3-1 victory.

The result helped GB move ahead of Malaysia in the Pool B standings, although the final position of both teams will not be known until the completion of the Belgium versus Ireland match later today.

Malaysia opened the scoring in a pacy, end-to-end encounter with Muhammad Shamsul crashing a brilliant backhand past Great Britain goalkeeper George Pinner from a tight angle before David Condon levelled the scores moments after half time. A yellow card for Malaysia captain Rahim Razie just seconds into the fourth quarter proved to be costly, with Great Britain killing the game off through Jackson and Ward while Razie was serving his suspension in the sin-bin. Great Britain’s Alastair Brogdon said: “I think we did the right things in the first half, trying to play our game but we couldn’t get the goal and they scored one on the counter-attack. I think we knew if we kept on plugging away then the chances would come and we executed it in the end.

Looking ahead to the next phase, Brogdon said: “We’ll go into the quarter-finals feeling confident as we are unbeaten with two draws and two wins, and I think our performances are getting better which is something we’ll definitely take into the quarters.”

Results

Pakistan 2-2 France
Australia 6-2 India
Great Britain 3-1 Malaysia

The Nation



Pakistan finish third in Group A

by S. Ramaguru

ANTWERP: Pakistan finished third in Group A after they were held to a 2-2 draw by France at the World Hockey League Semi-Finals at the KHC Dragons Stadium.

It was a fast-paced match and France stunned Pakistan by taking the lead in the 21st minute. Simon Brisacs’ hit from the top of the D was accidentally deflected into goal by a Pakistani defender.

Mohamed Waqas put Pakistan on level terms with a field goal in the 36th minute. But two minutes later, France were back on top with a strike from Charles Masson.

Mohamed Dilber saved Pakistan the blushes when he scored the equaliser in the 45th minute.

Pakistan coach Shannaz Sheikh was disappointed with his team’s performance, saying they were not up to par.

“We didn’t play well and were slow. We have to improve greatly in the quarter-finals. We’re not sure whom we will play but it will not be easy at all,” said Shannaz.

Like Pakistan, France will also have to wait for the completion of the Group B matches to know their last-eight opponents. All the quarter-final matches will be held on Wednesday.

The Star of Malaysia



Samiullah lashes out at hockey team performance in Belgium

Mohsin Ali

ISLAMABAD - Olympian Samiullah described Pakistan Hockey team performance in Hockey World League Semi-Finals Pool A pathetic until now and said if they somehow manage to qualify for the 2016 Olympics, they stand no chance with such average game.

Samiullah expressed these views while talking exclusively with The Nation on Sunday. He said such poor planning that resulted in conceding 11 and scoring just 7 goals also expose all the tall claims made by head coach Shahnaz Sheikh and his supporting staff. “There was hardly any game plan witnessed as green shirts struggle hard to beat minnows Poland. Then they were given hockey lesson by the mighty Australians. Defeat against Kangroos is somewhat understandable, as Australians are the best team in the world for the last 12 to 13 years. Even then, coach should have made a clear-cut plan. He gave statement during the match after two quarters that he had big surprise in store for the Kangroos. But everybody had witnessed after that green shirts conceded five goals. Was that his planning and surprise for the Aussies?”

Sami said there was also no team planning or strategy during Indian match as India completely dominated the entire proceedings. “ hahnaz had assured entire Pakistani nation they will beat India just like they did in the Champions Trophy. Where that promise has gone? There was no need of giving such statements as it puts extra pressure on players. Pakistani team hardly manage to draw the match against archrivals India and after watching Pakistani team coming from behind twice against unknowns France, I fear for the worst to come. The way, French players outclassed our defensive line and dictating terms, was very hard to digest for me and I am sure rest of the past greats and masses were feeling in the same manner.”

He lamented the decline of Pakistan hockey team which was one of the top teams in the world. “We had won all the titles on offer and now Pakistan hockey team finishes 3rd among five teams and that too just ahead of France and Poland. We can't even surpass India. All the other teams made at least 5 to 6 changes in their squad after every mega event especially after the Olympics and replace aging and non-performers with fresh blend of players, but here in Pakistan the situation is completely different. Here senior players are fully aware of the fact that there is no replacement and back up pool of players, so they are certain starters and no matter they perform or not, their places are safe and secure in the national team.”

Samiullah said he was amazed Pakistan Hockey Federation was sleeping instead of keeping close eye on the next year junior world cup qualifiers to be held in India, they didn't take that seriously and nothing had been done for that so far as if they had made up in their minds and clearly knew the outcome of the qualifiers.

“The hockey has changed now. Top teams are way ahead; they have adopted the new rules and conditions quite well while we are not even close to them. Thinking about winning titles with old planning, outdated training is not more than day dreaming.”

Samiullah said federation top brass was just busy enjoying joy-rides and had nothing to do with promotion of hockey. He said there agenda instead of lifting the standard of players was to travel different parts of the world. “On what grounds/reasons and purpose Akhtar Rasool and Rana Mujahid went to Belgium. At one end they are crying like babies about poor financial state of the federation and not paying incentives to players. No central contracts were offered to players. Coaching staff and other management is working without being paid anything and on the other hand federation top brass is busy in joy-riding. Instead of enjoying free tours, Akhtar and Rana must come up with plans how to improve fast declining fortunes of the national game. They should focus on grooming new talent and replacing aging players to raise the standard of the team and give a real chance to Pakistan for a shot at titles.”

The Nation



Green Machine fall 2-1 to Belgium



The final pool match of World League saw Ireland, ranked 14th in the world, put in a massive defensive performance against world number 4 Belgium but come up just short in a 2-1 defeat. The Belgians enjoyed 67% of possession throughout the match and entered the circle over 30 times, however the winning goal only came in the final 2 minutes.

Conor Harte, a stalwart of the Irish defence, was injured in the opening exchanges of the match and helped off the pitch by medics with a suspected dislocated shoulder. The Irish defence absorbed a lot of pressure but the opening goal came from a well-worked Belgian penalty corner. Moments later though, Stephen Dowds won a PC for the Green Machine which, drag flick specialist, Shane O’Donoghue dispatched past the goalkeeper to level the match at 1-1.

Irish discipline was called into question when 3 players were issued with cards, 2 yellow and 1 green, in a short space of time meaning it was 11 vs 8 for a period. The Belgian dominance rarely let up but David Harte, Ireland’s goalkeeper, made several important saves and the Green Machine regained composure despite decisions not going their way.

With 2 minutes left in the match Coach Craig Fulton made the decision to take Harte off and put Jonathan Bell on as the extra man. The decision didn’t pay off unfortunately and the Belgians scored on the counter attack, making the final score 2-1.

Ireland will play Australia, ranked 1 in the world, in the quarter final on Wednesday July 1st at midday and the match will be shown live on Sky Sports 1.

Final Score:

Ireland 1(O’Donoghue) vs Belgium 2

Starting: Harte, Jackson, Gormley, Watt, Cargo, Sothern, Caruth, O’Donoghue, Darling, Gleghorne,Harte.

Bench: Bell, Dowds, Magee, Shimmins, Carlisle, Good, Fitzgerald.

Irish Hockey Association media release



Stats Speak: Uphill task for Indian Eves

By B.G.Joshi  with inputs J.Sanders (Australia)

Sehore-Bhopal, India: To beat World number 1 Netherlands in quarter final is uphill task for India. India-Netherlands played on 11 occasions, Netherlands wins 10, only occasion India beat Netherlands was in Mandeieu (France) World Cup 1974. India wins pool match by 1-0. In semifinal India lost to Argentina and finished fourth, whereas the Dutch ladies won the World Cup.

Quarter finalists are:

  1. Australia (WR 2) vs. Italy (WR 16)- last played in New Delhi Indira Gandhi Intl. Gold Cup 2005, Hockeyroos beats  Dark Blues  by 4-1 .
  2. New Zealand (WR 4) vs. Japan (WR 10) - last played in Mendoza (Argentina) Champions Trophy 2014, Black Sticks beats Cherry Blossoms by 2-1.
  3. Netherlands (WR 1) vs. India (WR 13) - last played in Rotterdam (Netherlands) Hockey World League SF 2013, the Oranje beats Indians by 8-1.
  4. South Korea (WR 9) vs. Belgium (WR 12) - last played in Rotterdam (Netherlands) Hockey World League SF 2013, Koreans beat Red Panthers  by 2-1.

Final Standings
Pool A

Rank

Team

P

W

D

L

GF

GA

Points

1

Netherlands

4

4

0

0

26

1

12

2

South Korea

4

2

1

1

14

3

7

3

Italy

4

1

2

1

7

12

5

4

Japan

4

1

1

2

8

8

4

5

France

4

0

0

4

1

32

0

 

Pool B

Rank

Team

P

W

D

L

GF

GA

Points

1

New Zealand

4

4

0

0

21

0

12

2

Australia

4

3

0

1

15

4

9

3

Belgium

4

2

0

2

3

4

6

4

India

4

1

0

3

5

11

3

5

Poland

4

0

0

4

1

26

0

 

Fieldhockey.com



Deepika's injury a concern for fast-improving Indian eves

ANTWERP (Belgium): Key defender Deepika's injury sustained in the match against Australia is a concern for the fast-improving Indian women's team ahead of the knock-out rounds of the Hockey World League Semifinals at the KHC Dragons Stadium.

Deepika's fine show in the last preliminary league game against World Cup silver medalists Australia yesterday was marred by the nasty blow she received on her hand in the fourth quarter of the contest that India lost 2-4 after putting up their best show of the tournament.

Writhing in pain Deepika continued playing the game, but later left the arena with a bandaged arm, caused by the blow from an Australian striker's stick.

"She's injured, but it is not a fracture," said C R Kumar, manager of the Indian women's team.

The Indian team will be hoping she recovers fully in the two-day break before the quarterfinals, where India meet world champions The Netherlands, who topped Group A with four successive wins.

India finished fourth in Group B, with three points garnered from a victory over lowly Poland in four outings. That victory keeps India on track for a chance to qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Indian eves have not featured in the Olympic Games since their lone appearance in 1980.

Three qualifying spots are on offer for the Olympic Games from this tournament, but even some teams that fail to make the semifinals can make it to Rio de Janeiro if the five continental champions throw up any dual qualifiers.

An overlapping Deepika played a key role in setting up India's first goal in the match against Australia where they twice drew parity before the world no. 2 side sealed their victory in the second half.

Indian women team's new chief coach Mathias Ahrens said the performance showed that his wards, featuring seven girls from the under-21 squad, had improved during the tournament.

"It was a good show in the face of a strong opposition. I am happy with the way they created scoring opportunities, especially in the first half," said Ahrens.

"We could have scored some more goals."

Australia owed their victory to penalty corner shooter Jodie Kenny, who completed a hat-trick of three penalty corner strikes and then added another through a penalty stroke.

India rallied through goals from Vandana Katariya, who deflected in Deepika's diagonal ball from top of the circle, and Poonam Rani in a scrimmage during a penalty corner action.

The coach said there was a lot more the girls need to learn if they have to become a force in world hockey.

"We need to improve in out control of situations," said Ahrens.

In the quarterfinals, Australia play Italy, Asian Games champions South Korea take on hosts Belgium and New Zealand meet Japan.

The Times of India



Three in a row as Scotland ease to win over Czech Republic


Louise Campbell finishes from a tight angle to score the fifth Scottish goal. Photo Credit: Duncan Gray

A double each for Vikki Bunce and Kareena Marshall, added to goals from Aileen Davies and Louise Campbell, gave Scotland Senior Women a 6-0 win over Czech Republic at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre today.

As a result, the Scots sealed the international series 3-0 after three excellent results this weekend.


Scotland's Kareena Marshall scored twice in the game against Czech Republic. Photo Credit: Duncan Gray

Scotland took control of the contest after only two minutes when they were awarded a penalty corner; following the injection of the ball from Sarah Robertson, Kareena Marshall fired the ball past Czech goalkeeper Barbora Cechakova to put her side 1-0 up.

The visitors were given an opportunity to find an equaliser shortly after, but Adela Bizova failed to find the target when the goal was at her mercy.

The home side should have secured a second goal in the 13th minute, however the Scottish forward-line failed to take advantage of a four on one opportunity, with Sarah Robertson eventually putting the ball wide of the right hand post.

Nevertheless, it only took a minute to make amends, defender Aileen Davis rifling a shot low into the bottom left corner of the goal to make it 2-0.


Scotland execute a penalty corner set-play against Czech Republic. Photo Credit: Duncan Gray

A second quarter of limited goalmouth action proceeded, with Marshall's effort right on the stroke of half-time going over the bar.

Three minutes after the re-start, Scotland chalked up their third goal, Marshall deflecting Nicki Skrastin's shot past Cechakova, much to the glee of the Western Wildcats defender.

Louise Campbell brought out a good block from Cechakova midway through the third quarter, before a great individual run and reverse stick shot from forward Vikki Bunce registered the fourth goal for the hosts in the 45th minute.

The fifth goal arrived in the 53rd minute, Campbell rounding the out-stretched Cechakova to finish from a tight angle, before Bunce rounded off the scoring a minute from full-time, claiming her second goal with a final touch on the goal-line from Nikki Lloyd's shot.

Scottish Hockey Union media release



Czech mate as Scotland wrap up series win


Scotland's Gavin Byers collected his 100th international cap against Czech Republic. Photo Credit: Duncan Gray

Scotland Senior Men wrapped up a 3-0 series win over the Czech Republic with a 6-1 victory over the Eastern Europeans in the third and final international match at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre this morning.

Goals from Wei Adams, Kenny Bain, Murray Collins, captain Chris Grassick, Nicky Parkes and Hamish Imrie ensured a comfortable victory for the Scots. The Czechs’ reply came from Lukas Plochy.

Scotland goalkeeper David Forrester was called into action early in the proceedings, coming off his line to narrow the shooting angle for Czech striker Lukas Plochy and make a good block from the subsequent shot on goal.

In the seventh minute, cap centurion Gavin Byers came close to opening the scoring, only for the visitors’ goalkeeper Jiri Zelenka to tip his shot over the bar after Chris Grassick had sent a dangerous ball across the face of goal.

However, home pressure eventually reaped reward in the 16th minute, Alan Forsyth fashioning the opportunity to cross for Wei Adams to beat Zelenka at the near post to put the Scots a goal to the good.

Forrester again proved to be a barrier for Czech advances in the 29th minute, denying Tomas Hyncik from close range to keep his side in front.

With the half drawing to a close without further drama, Adams’ goal remained the only difference between the two sides.

Early in the second half, replacement Scottish goalkeeper Gavin Sommerville was recruited into service to stop Plochy’s drag-flick attempt from a penalty corner, keeping the Scots narrowly in front.

That save was to prove crucial two minutes later as the national side extended their lead, Kenny Bain tapping the ball into the goal at the back post after William Marshall’s initial drag-flick attempt was repelled by Zelenka.


Striker Kenny Bain puts Scotland 2-0 up from close range. Photo Credit: Duncan Gray

Murray Collins increased Scotland’s lead in the 53rd minute, collecting Bain’s pass on the right of the circle and firing a low shot into the left hand corner, before Grassick put the game out of sight at 4-0 two minutes later, collecting the ball from Hamish Imrie to slot the ball home.


Murray Collins fires Scotland 3-1 up. Photo Credit: Duncan Gray

Nevertheless, the away side took advantage of some sloppy Scottish defending at a penalty corner in the 57th minute, David Vacek firing past Sommerville to score his side’s first goal.

Nicky Parkes made amends almost immediately, deflecting Marshall’s drag-flick past Zelenka shortly after to make it 5-1 to Scotland.


Nicky Parkes slides in to deflect the ball past Czech Republic's Jiri Zelenka. Photo Credit: Duncan Gray

Good play from Marshall and Bain put Imrie in on goal but Zelenka got a vital stick intervention on the ball as the striker attempted to round the Czech shot-stopper.


Jiri Zelenka gets a stick to the ball as Hamish Imrie attempted to round the keeper. Photo Credit: Duncan Gray

However, the former Grange forward was not to be denied a minute from full-time after being presented with an easy tap-in at the back post after Alan Forsyth and Grassick combined along the baseline.

Scottish Hockey Union media release



Scotland U18 Women earn draw against England but men lose out

Scotland U18 Women bounced back from yesterday's defeat to earn a 2-2 draw against England in Glasgow.

England took the lead early in the match, Georgina Bathurst opening the scoring from open play.

However, the Scots responded shortly before the half-time break through a penalty corner goal from Amy Costello.

It looked like the visitors had sealed the winning goal when Megan Douthwaite scored two minutes from full-time, the Scots had other ideas, Claire Hilton scoring right on the hooter to level the scores at 2-2.

Scotland U18 Men found the going tough against England, losing 6-1 in today's encounter.

Two goals from Tendo Kimuli, and strikes from Jack Whelan, Peter Scott, Jack Waller and Eddie Way sealed England's win. The Scottish consolation came from Dean Baber.

Scottish Hockey Union media release



Varsity hockey fun and games at UKZN Pietermaritzburg

JONATHAN COOK


SA striker Natius Malgraff a threat for NMMU Madibaz during the University Sport South Africa tournament at UKZN Pietermaritzburg this week. PHOTO: RODRIGO JARAMILLO

The stage is set for a memorable week of university hockey fun and games in Pietermaritzburg.

The 2015 University Sport South Africa (USSA) Hockey Week begins Monday and the 16 teams in the elite A Section men’s and women’s tournaments will do battle in their respective tournaments at the University of KZN Greenfields Turf in the Peter Booysen Sports Park off Golf Road in Scottsville, as well as at the AB Jackson Greenfields Turf opposite Harry Gwala Stadium.

A host of national players will be on show alongside their varsity team-mates and the outcome of the eight-team men’s, and eight-team women’s, A Section tournaments are tough ones to predict.

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) men’s team are the reigning USSA Week title holders, as well as the Varsity Cup title holders. UJ won both tournaments in 2014. This year there was no Varsity Cup men’s competition.

The defending USSA Week women’s champions are the University of Stellenbosch (Maties) while the UJ women won this year’s Varsity Cup competition with University of The Free State (Kovsies) the runners-up.

However, there are a number of very good teams in the A Section men’s and women’s competitions and it all depends on the day, the nature of the match, and the individual moment.

The elite A Section men’s event features UJ in Pool A along with University of KZN (UKZN), Maties, and University of Pretoria (Tuks). Pool B showcases Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (Madibaz), Kovsies, University of Cape Town (Ikeys) and Wits University (Wits).

The elite A Section women’s event has Maties, UJ, Tuks and Varsity College in Pool A. The teams in Pool B are North West University Potchefstroom (Pukke), followed by Kovsies, Madibaz and Ikeys.

The Pool A and Pool B matches alternate between men’s and women’s matches from 8.30am throughout the day, the last match starting at 5.50pm. This is from Monday to Wednesday. Thursday and Friday see the last match begin at 6.10pm.

The women’s final is at 3.30pm Friday with the men’s final at 6.10pm.

Monday’s A Section matches at UKZN see the Pukke women face Kovsies at 8.30am; followed by Madibaz men versus Kovsies men at 10.10am; and the Ikeys men vs Wits men match-up at 11.15am. At 1.30pm Maties men tackle Tuks men; at 3.10pm Maties women face UJ women, while the day’s final match sees the UKZN men up against UJ men at 5.50pm.

At the AB Jackson, the Ikeys women play Madibaz women at 10am before the Tuks ladies meet Varsity College at 11.30am.

Meanwhile, another 29 university teams - from Zululand to Mafikeng - take part in the men’s and women’s B and C Sections. Their matches take place at the AB Jackson, Maritzburg College and Epworth astro hockey turfs.

Everything points to a great time for all.

Fieldhockey.com



HTHC and Krefeld qualify; Rot Weiss top table

Harvestehuder and Krefeld confirmed their place in the final four of the German league next weekend on a dramatic last couple of days of the regular season.

For HTHC, they got the result they needed on Saturday when they drew 2-2 at Mannheim with Benjamin Stanzl earning the share of the spoils with a goal eight minutes from the end. They followed up with a 3-3 draw against Rot Weiss Köln on Sunday to end with 42 points from 22 games.

That result meant that Rot Weiss won the regular season, one point clear of UHC Hamburg, the former securing a place in the Euro Hockey League once again.

Krefeld’s passage was much more fraught, though, as they snuck into the fourth spot. They lost their first game in 11 outings on Saturday when they were beaten 2-1 by low-lying Munich.

But the damage was limited by Berliner’s draw with Club an der Alster and Uhlenhorst Mülheim lost at Nürnburg 3-2. And Berliner’s nightmare weekend continued with a 6-0 loss at home against UHC Hamburg on Sunday to open the door for Krefeld.

They duly produced a strong performance to win 4-2 in Nürnburg. Oskar Deecke’s pair of goals proved crucial after the hosts had taken a 1-0 lead via Felix Klein. Max Jordan equalised before Deecke converted a penalty stroke and then made it 3-1 with a corner.

They conceded one more but Niklas Bruns made sure of the game with three minutes to go to secure the win.

Uhlenhorst Mülheim also recovered from Saturday’s loss to win 6-0 in Munich on Sunday but ended up a point shy of Krefeld in the final reckoning.

Next weekend, Rot Weiss will meet Krefeld while Harvestehuder will meet UHC Hamburg in the semi-finals on Saturday.

Euro Hockey League media release



Walmiki brothers inspire village to take up hockey

Eram Agha

ALIGARH: Kapil Dev has long strides and like the cricket legend he was named after, he always wanted to "conquer the pitch". But every morning the 16-year-old comes out for training with a hockey stick instead.

So what happened? In dusty Alahdadpur, 10km from Aligarh in UP, young boys and girls will tell you that here the Walmiki brothers happened. In cricket-crazy India, it's not often than an entire village gives up the willow for the hockey stick. But the amazing story of Yuvraj and Devinder Walmiki - now playing for India at the FIH World League in Antwerp - has done just that.

The Times of India



My name is Micaela Sarzosa



My name is Micaela Sarzosa. I am 14 years old, Chilean and live in Coquimbo, IV Region in Chile (north of Chile). I was born with Imperfect Osteogenesis (OI), and need a wheelchair, as I am just beginning to learn how to stand up and walk. Both my mother and brother are affected with the disease as well. This disease weakens your bones because calcium is not absorbed normally, and causes the bones to break easily with no apparent cause.

Since this year, 2015, I am a regular pupil at the Amazing Grace English School of La Serena, as I was bullied in my former school. I have felt accepted in this new start, and have adapted myself well. I have not been discriminated.

At Amazing Grace, field hockey is part of the curriculum, besides of having an extra- curricular Hockey Academy. My professor invited me to take part of it. I had never practiced this activity, but it has attracted me a lot from the beginning. Finally, my schoolmates and family supported me.

At the beginning, the plan was to participate in the Swimming Academy, something I knew about and have practiced before. This is why my family was reluctant to accept my decision of playing hockey: everybody was scared I might get hurt or feel bad because I would be the only one in a wheelchair.

This fact of course changes the way I play hockey, and the way my companions play at the pitch as well. I have been feeling well since then and knowing that my family has finally accepted and understood my decision.

I would like to keep on playing for a long time; I need a lot of equipment to carry on developing in the sport, like a sport wheelchair instead of the standard one I use, but not the motorized wheelchair, as this is a seismic country.  If I were confronted with an emergency, a lightweight chair would make the difference.

Chile is still not prepared to assist people with special needs as mine, but through my example, I could bring hope to others who are in the same situation, feeling this sport inaccessible and impossible to practice.

 I am completely aware of my limitations, but I know my inner strength. I would like to show others that this is possible. I have been integrated into the Indoor Hockey, and I think there could be more examples of integration. Furthermore, maybe this sport could be included in the Paralympics.

In the meantime, my next steps are to carry on playing and maybe going into the Umpiring career.

This is my story so far, I hope it encourages other young Americans to integrate into this beautiful sport.

Pan American Hockey Federation media release

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