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News for 16 June 2018

All the news for Saturday 16 June 2018


Test Match results

2018 Test Matches: NED v FRA (M)
Amsterdam (NED)

14 Jun 2018 NED v FRA     3 - 1   
15 Jun 2018 NED v FRA     3 - 1

Netherlands win the 2 test series 2 - 0

2018 Test Matches: ESP v IND (W)
Madrid (ESP)

12 Jun 2018 ESP v IND     3 - 0
13 Jun 2018 ESP v IND     1 - 1
15 Jun 2018 ESP v IND     2 - 3

FIH Match Centre



Canada takes home the victory in the first of an 18 match European tour with 3-0 against Ireland.

By Tristan Urry


Photo: Tristan Urry

Dublin, Ireland With a strong defence, Canada controlled a majority of the play and did a superb job attacking and moving the ball forward.

The first goal was scored by forward player Steph Norlander 12 minutes into the first quarter. Norlander deflected a backhanded cross from team member Rachel Donohoe.

Approximately six minutes into the third quarter forward player Holly Stewart, flicked a rebound over the Irish keepers head scoring the second goal.

Finishing the match strong, Canada’s Caashia Karrington drove home the match scoring a goal ten minutes into the fourth quarter. Karrington scored the goal less than a minute after Ireland withdrew their keeper.

Ireland ranked 16th in the world, who are competing in this summers World Cup, attempted to score six goals but failed to land a single one during Fridays game against Canada.

Team captain Dani Henning felt that Ireland was a tough side, but was proud of her team for playing hard and taking home the win making Kat Leahy’s 50th cap game one to remember.

Leahy said that overall the team was pretty happy with their performance and that she is looking forward to the following match.

The teams play again at Pembroke Wanderers Hockey Club for their final match in the SoftCo series Saturday, June 16th at 5pm.

Field Hockey Canada Women's team media release



Ireland 0 - 3 Canada


Photo: Tristan Urry

Ireland played CANADA in the first of their two match SoftCo series earlier this evening. A presentation was made to Hannah Matthews before the game to mark her 100 cap.

Canada were quickly into their stride but it was Ireland who forced first pc in the 4m but Upton’s drag was comfortably saved. Canada took the lead in 12m with a backhand cross from Donohoe deflected in near post by Norlander.

2nd quarter Ireland worked hard but couldn’t break through Canadian defence and O Flanagan had to be sharp to prevent Canada extending lead.

3rd quarter Canada went further ahead after an initial chance was cleared off the line but the ball broke to Stewart who flicks over Irish keeper O Flanagan to make it 2-0. In the 40m Tice saw her sweep shot from from PC deflected high for Harris to tip it over.

IRELAND camped in Canadian half for most final quarter forcing 5 PCs but Canada defence led by Harris in Canadian goal was in superb form. Ireland withdrew their keeper with5m left and within 30 seconds, Karringten turns in a long corner move to make it 3-0

The sides meet again at 5pm tomorrow in Pembroke wanderers for the second and final test in the SoftCo series

Ireland 0
CANADA  3 (S Norlander, H Stewart, C Karringten)

Ireland:

Starting XI: Grace O G Flanagan (GK), Hannah Matthews, Leah McGuire, Lena Tice, Roisin Upton, Zoe Wilson, Emily Beatty, Katie Mullan, Anna O Flanagan, Ali Meeke & Deirdre Duke

Substitutes: Ayeisha McFerran, Cliodhna Sargent, Yvonne O Byrne, Lizzie Colvin, Chloe Watkins, Sinead Loughran,  Naomi Carroll

Canada

Kaitlyn Williams (GK), Natalie Sourisseau, Alison Lee, Danielle Hennig, Kathleen Leahy, Rachel Donohue, Hannah Haughin, Karli Johansen, Sara McManus, Holly Stewart, Nikki Woodcroft, Amada Woodcroft, Brienne Stairs, Caashia Karringten, Shanlee Johnston, Stephane Norlander, Alex Thicke, Rowan Harris (GK)

Irish Hockey Association media release



Canada take first laurels in SoftCo Series


Katie Mullan on the attack for Ireland. Pic: Adrian Boehm

Ireland’s women fell to a 3-0 loss to Canada – ranked five places below them in the world – in the first game of the SoftCo Series at Serpentine Avenue.

The north American side showed a much sharper edge for much of the first three quarters, moving the ball around their platform at greater pace, creating the cleaner chances as a result.

After a sustained passing move, Stephanie Norlander put them one up with a near post finish from Rachel Donohoe’s backhand cross from the left in the 12th minute.

The second came nine minutes into the second half when Amanda Woodcroft saw an effort cleared off the line but only as far as Holly Stewart who flicked home.

Ireland did muster a series of chances down the closing stretch with Katie Mullan flashing a trio of shots at goal. They also had half a dozen penalty corners, one of which Rowan Harris brilliantly tipped over the bar, another which Naomi Carroll flicked wide.

Canada, though, picked Ireland off within 30 seconds of withdrawing their goalkeeper for an extra attacker with Caashia Karringten turning in a long corner move, 3-0 with five minutes to go.

Women’s senior international
Ireland 0
Canada 3 (S Norlander, H Stewart, C Karringten)

Ireland: G O’Flanagan, K Mullan, L Tice, E Beatty, R Upton, H Matthews, A O’Flanagan, Z Wilson, D Duke, A Meeke, L McGuire
Subs: Y O’Byrne, C Sargent, N Carroll, S Loughran, C Watkins, L Colvin, A McFerran

Canada: K Williams, N Sourisseau, D Hennig, H Haughn, K Johansen, S McManus, H Stewart, A Woodcroft, B Stairs, C Karringten, S Johnston

Subs: A Lee, K Leahy, R Donohoe, N Woodcroft, S Norlander, A Thicke, R Harris

Umpires: A Keogh, G Garrett

The Hook



Scotland women win Italian Series in dramatic shootout


15 June 2018 at the National Hockey Centre, Glasgow Green. Scotland v Italy, game 3 – photo by Duncan Gray

Scotland women won the Italian Series after a dramatic running penalties shootout at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre. Lexi Sabatelli scored the winning penalty as Scotland took a 3-0 victory after the match ended 2-2 at full time.

Italy had the first chance of the match from a crash ball into the D but Lucy Camlin batted clear with her leg guards

The first penalty corner of the match went to Scotland and it resulted in the opening goal. Amy Costello gave Scotland the lead with a low penalty corner slammed into the bottom left corner. 1-0

The Scots soon had another opportunity when Nikki Alexander-Lloyd went on a solo run into the D, she found Millie Brown at the near post, but the goalkeeper saved well with her leg guards.

Italy came close when they had a penalty corner deflected over the bar just before the end of the first quarter.

Then from an Italian penalty corner Camlin produced an exceptional diving save to her right to pad a thunderous strike and keep Scotland in the lead. Moments later Camlin produced another fine save when Scotland were caught out 4 v 2 on the break, Camlin sprung out and saved well.

Into the second quarter and Italy equalised as half time approached through Maria Garraffo. Garraffo forced the ball over the line from a penalty corner for 1-1.

Then Lara Oviedo scored a carbon copy of the opener to put Italy in the lead at half time.

After the restart a swift break down the right for Italy saw Guiliana Ruggieri loop the ball just past the post for Italy.

Scotland battled back into the contest and equalised through Sarah Jamieson with a great finish into the top left corner to make it 2-2.


15 June 2018 at the National Hockey Centre, Glasgow Green. Scotland v Italy, game 3 – photo by Duncan Gray

Italy nearly snatched a winner at the end but Valentina Braconi smashed a shot towards goal from the top of the D and it narrowly went over the bar.

The contest went to running penalties to decide the series winner and it was Scotland who produced the goods.

Jamieson scored the opener before Heather Howie and Lexi Sabatelli gave Scotland a 3-0 win in the shootout, while Nikki Cochrane was unbeatable in goal for Scotland.

Scotland win the series 2-1.

Scotland women Interim Head Coach Neil Menzies said, “Given the lack of the experience in the squad I was generally happy with the overall performances over the series. There were obviously periods where things were not so good but there were some periods that were extremely encouraging, particularly because of the relative performances by the younger and less experienced members of the squad.

“Winning the penalty shootout and getting a series win was the icing on the cake.”

Scottish Hockey Union media release



USWNT Shut Out in Third Match of Test Series Against Argentina



TUCUMAN, Argentina –  The third match of a five-game test series between the U.S. Women's National Team and FIH Hero World Ranked No. 3 Argentina concluded Thursday night in Tucuman, Argentina at the Swimming and Gymnastics Club. Los Leones used a late first quarter goal and dominant ball control to shut down USA throughout the match en route to a 4-0 victory.

In the first minute of the game, Argentina opened with the first penalty corner of the match, but the shot missed wide of the net. USA countered several times during the opening frame but could not penetrate the circle. Later in the quarter, Catherine Caro (Martinsville, N.J.) created a turnover behind Argentina’s 25 yard line to set up a quick scoring opportunity for USA. Erin Matson (Chadds Ford, Pa.) made the cross for Jill (Witmer) Funk (Lancaster, Pa.) but could not connect in front of the net as the ball rolled away. Argentina pressed with one more offensive setup before the quarter ended, resulting in a field goal by Delfina Merino to give the host nation a 1-0 lead.
The score did not stay that way for long. In the 17th minute Argentina set up for their third penalty corner opportunity, where a strike by Noel Barrionuevo put USA at a 2-0 disadvantage. Later, USA had a pair of free hits just outside the circle toward the end of the half but Los Leones were there to halt any advancement. With time winding down, Agostina Alonso made a swift charge toward the circle but an offensive obstruction killed the play.

Los Leones continued to hold an advantage as the second half got underway with another early penalty corner in the 32nd minute, but the shot was high and wide of the net. USA cleared the ball but was short lived as Argentina charged right back on offense. Two minutes later, a field goal by Maria Granatto extended Argentina's lead to 3-0. Momentum was fully behind the host nation as USA was met with a tight Argentina defense while being constantly threatened inside the circle on the other end. Green cards were issued to both sides, one to Argentina's Eugenia Trinchinetti and one to Margaux Poalino (Villanova, Pa.). Once the teams were back to a full strength, Argentina set up another field goal by Granatto to make it 4-0. By the end of the third quarter, USA was outplayed in circle penetrations 6 to 1.

The final quarter followed a similar suit to its predecessor with two penalty corners awarded to Argentina early on. The first shot went wide of the net while the second was mis-trapped. In the 50th minute Los Leones threatened once again with a cross pass, but USA's goalkeeper Lauren Blazing (Durham, N.C.) quickly challenged and defended the play. Blazing and the rest of USA's defensive unit was tested throughout the quarter with six additional circle penetrations and allowing little opportunity for the red, white and blue to turn back on offense. Overall, the host nation led every category during the match, including ball possession with 74 percent.

The U.S. Women's National Team will be back on the pitch Saturday, June 16 at 5:00 p.m. ET for the fourth test series match. Stay tuned and watch USA live by clicking here. #Gr1tForGlory

USFHA media release



Tested Defensively, U-21 USWNT Drops Opening Match against Argentina


Photo Credit: Prensa CAH / Juan Manuel Iglesias

TUCUMAN, Argentina – In their first game of a three-match series against Argentina’s U-21 squad at the Swimming and Gymnastics Club in Tucuman, Argentina, the U.S. U-21 Women’s National Team was tested defensively early and often. Scoreless after the first quarter, Argentina got on the board once in each of the remaining quarters to earn a 3-0 win.

After the opening whistle, it didn’t take long for Argentina to use their quickness to get in and behind USA’s defensive line. U-21 USWNT goalkeeper Kelsey Bing (Houston, Texas) started to feel the pressure and moments into the match Cassie Sumfest (Lewisburg, Pa.) came up big with a diving goal live save. Shortly after Los Leoncitas earned their first penalty corner but USA’s defensive unit remained solid. The initial shot was deflected by flyer Brooke DeBerdine (Millersville, Pa.) and the second attempt was blocked by Sumfest on the post. Argentina’s second penalty corner attempt was again tipped away by the DeBerdine which helped spark a USA transition downfield. This was short lived as Argentina threatened again and earned their third penalty corner but were unsuccessful. The U-21 USWNT continued to weather Argentina’s attack as they sat and remaining strong in the circle. Before the first quarter closed, Katrina Carter (Gilroy, Calif.) generated some positive offense when she found the ball just inside the circle, but the score stood locked at zeros.

The second quarter started with a stale period of play where possession was shared between both teams, but USA continued to work hard. A close chance came when an Argentina striker found room and got a backhand shot off which forced Argentina’s goalkeeper to make a glove save. Back the other way, Argentina was unable to convert off a penalty corner but less than a minute later they kept possession and took it into their circle. A cross toward the goalmouth scrambled off Bing’s pads and was batted into the goal by Gianella Palet to give Argentina a 1-0 lead in the 21st minute. Los Leoncitas kept up the pressure and generated a fast break which forced Bing to come out and make a save. Just before halftime, USA earned a penalty corner, but Kendall Ballard (Charlottesville, Va.) drag sailed over the cross bar as the halftime score stood at USA 0, Argentina 1.

Similar to the start of the match, Argentina came out quick in the third quarter and continuing to test Bing and the defensive unit. An Argentina striker beat a few USA defenders, found room and attempted to strike a backhand but was met by Bing who denied the chance. At the other end, USA was presented with a few opportunities after successfully stringing together some attacking possession. USA earned a penalty corner where the drag attempt by Ballard was saved by Argentina’s goalkeeper but kept possession following. To close out the quarter, Argentina tallied their second goal off a penalty corner where Sofía Toccalino’s drag was buried into the left corner to make extend Argentina’s lead to 2-0.

The final frame started with USA on their heels defensively. Elise Wong (Perth Amboy, N.J.) was credited with staying clinical which transitioned to USA taking the ball to their offensive end. After regaining possession, Argentina continued to use their speed to break through USA’s defense and get positive looks on goal. Los Leoncitas would score in the final minute of play when an Argentina player threaded a long ball up the center of the field that found Guadalupe Adorno who beat Bing and put it in to make the closing score 3-0.

The U.S. U-21 Women’s National Team has today off but will return to the pitch on Saturday, June 16 at 3:00 p.m. ET for their second game against Argentina’s U-21 squad. The live stream of this game can be viewed by clicking here.

USFHA media release



Your Team. Their Dream. USWNT World Cup Send-Off Event



LANCASTER, Pa. - Join USA Field Hockey in celebrating the amazing accomplishment of the U.S. Women’s National Team as they head to London to participate in the Vitality Women’s Hockey World Cup 2018. The path to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games begins now. Don’t miss out on an exceptional opportunity to meet and greet the players, get autographs and find out what it takes to be a USWNT athlete. Special guests and Olympians, Katie Bam, Lauren Crandall and Rachel Dawson will kick off the event as the field hockey community will gather to send off the team.

Join in the celebration Saturday, July 14, 2018 at 1:45 p.m. ET, at Spooky Nook Sports in, Lancaster, Pa. for the official World Cup Send-Off event. Tickets for this special event are $25.00 for individuals and $450.00 for a 20-person team/group. The event will include a raffle and silent auction with autographed team jerseys and signed team hockey sticks. The premier online auction has many high-quality items and will open for bidding on Monday, June 18 at 3:00 p.m. ET and run through Sunday, July 15, at 3:00 p.m. ET. The online auction items can be viewed by clicking here.

Save the date, mark your calendars and start bidding for the online auction items when it opens! Don’t miss these truly unbelievable opportunities to work with the USWNT Head Coach Janneke Schopman, spend a day with the USWNT squad, get a coaching consult from USA Field Hockey’s Director of Coach Education and Learning Craig Parnham or get a STX Team Swag Bag, including an autographed team jersey and sticks. This is your chance to show your support of these dedicated young women as they represent you and this country in London  - Your Team. Their Dream.

"We are extremely excited to be sponsoring this event with the support of USA Field Hockey,” expressed Pam Stuper, Chairperson of the U.S. Field Hockey Foundation. “This is going to be an amazing opportunity where our members can personally interact with the players as well as hear first-hand what it takes to be a USWNT member.”

Be part of the excitement as USA Field Hockey wants to showcase and send-off the U.S. Women’s National Team in style to the Vitality Women’s Hockey World Cup. Don’t miss this amazing event!

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS TO THE WORLD CUP SEND-OFF EVENT

USFHA media release



South African Striker Manuel grabs Hockey World Cup chance with both hands

Mark Etheridge


Candice Manuel in action for the SA Women's hockey team. Picture credit: teamsa.co.za

JOHANNESBURG – Eight months ago star hockey striker Candice Manuel was rueing missed opportunities as she recovered from a broken hand suffered at the Continental Cup in Egypt.

Now after making her Commonwealth Games debut in Australia in April, she is ready to play her hand in South Africa’s Hockey Women’s World Cup campaign in England.

This 14th edition of the tournament will be held from July 21 to August 5 at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre in London.

The 18-player squad, under the coaching reins of Sheldon Rostron, has been announced for the English trip.

Reacting to the news of her inclusion, Manuel told Team SA: "It’s been a race to get things in order now since the selection. It’s actually my first World Cup so I’m super excited to grab the opportunity with both hands.

"I’m always nervous for selection. In my mind, I was ever really sure and settled I’d be doing myself a disservice as an athlete.

"So really, this opportunity means the world to me. We leave for Holland on June 30 for a training camp which should be great preparation.

"I’m excited to work alongside our experience and new “freshies” to play some fun and exciting hockey. And to make a statement like I know we can," added Manuel.

South Africa, who went on to win the Continental Cup in Egypt, then finished fifth at the World League semifinal in Johannesburg in June last year, to qualify for the World Cup.

The squad features a blend of some superb youngsters coupled with experienced campaigners.

One of the notable names missing is Ilse Davids, who celebrated her birthday just before Team SA departed for Commonwealth Games and has announced her retirement recently, while SA Player of the year for 2016, Celia Evans, misses out through a knee injury.

Shelley Jones and Dirkie Chamberlain will be key to South Africa’s approach at the World Cup as they both take part in their fourth World Cup.

Dynamic duo Lisa-Marie Deetlefs and Sulette Damons will take part in their third, while Nicolene Terblanche returns for her second after featuring at the Hague in 2014. Their collective experience will be key to a South African side featuring some incredible youngsters.

There is a return to the squad for Tarryn Glasby and Lilian du Plessis (her second World Cup as well) who missed out on the Commonwealth Games, adding much-needed threat in front of goal alongside the explosive talent of Manuel.

The experienced trio of Erin Hunter, Nicole Walraven and Kara Botes will be joined in defence by the exciting Simone Gouws, who was Junior Player of the Tournament at the recently completed IPT.

Kristen Paton and Ongi Mali, often spoken of as the future of SA Hockey, will now be a very active part of the present.

The team is completed by Western Province duo Quanita Bobbs and Jade Mayne, who will look to continue their fine form in the green and gold when arriving in London.

South Africa will take part in Group C, facing off against Germany (world ranking – sixth) on July 21, Spain (11th) on July 26 and Argentina (third) on July 28.

Teams that finish first will progress straight to the quarterfinals, teams finishing second or third will move to the playoffs while the fourth-placed team will be eliminated.

Rostron, head coach of the South African women, says: "The group that we have created has a good blend of experience and youth. We have looked at specific skill requirements as well as the players form over the past 12 months.

"Simone Gouws will add a different dynamic in our defence, which we feel is needed, while the return of Lilian will make us a more threatening attacking team.

"As much as this is a team for the FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup, it is also a team to build for the future of SA Women’s Hockey."

South Africa’s 18-member  squad is:

Phumelela Mbande (Northern Blues), Marlize van Tonder (Southern Gauteng), Erin Hunter (Southern Gauteng), Kara Botes (Southern Gauteng), Simone Gouws (Free State), Nicole Walraven (Free State), Lisa Deetlefs (Southern Gauteng), Shelley Jones (KwaZulu-Natal Raiders), Kristen Paton (Southern Gauteng), Quanita Bobbs (Western Province), Nicolene Terblanche (Northern Blues), Suzette Damons (North West), Candice Manuel (Western Province), Ongi Mali (Eastern Province), Lilian du Plessis (Southern Gauteng), Tarryn Glasby (Western Province), Dirkie Chamberlain (North West), Jade Mayne (Western Province).

Independent Online



Maddie Hinch: We can scare World Cup rivals with crowd backing

By The Hockey Paper


Maddie Hinch will be key player during hockey World Cup (PIC: Rodrigo Jaramillo)

Maddie Hinch says the women’s World Cup can “reignite” the excitement surrounding Olympic gold as the hosts aim for another “great sporting English moment”.

England will host the 14th women’s tournament for the first time – and the first in the UK since the 1986 men’s World Cup in north London.

The event then was held in Willesden during a balmy October which captured the public’s imagination as England reached the final in front of BBC cameras.

Thirty two years on, Danny Kerry’s side will be aiming to go one better at the Olympic Park next month and make history by lifting the showpiece event.

They will also be attempting to add another golden glow to women’s sport and follow in the footsteps of England’s cricket win at the last World Cup and the netball side’s thrilling netball gold at the Commonwealth Games.

“On the back of Rio there has been a huge buzz around hockey and people are following us more, not just as a team but individually as well,” Hinch told BT Sport in an interview.


Lily Owsley, Hollie Webb and Sophie Bray

“This is a chance to reignite that excitement in this country, it is such a hugely participated sport and it doesn’t really have that airtime that we really believe it deserves.

“We are going to do our best to make it a really memorable tournament and a good sporting English moment.”

Hinch knows that the team will have extra expectations following Rio gold, which came one year after England lifted the European title against the Netherlands – the current world champions – at their Lee Valley HQ.

“There is pressure on my shoulders, there is a level of expectation as there is the whole group,” added the 29-year-old. “The better you play, the bigger saves you make and in front of a home crowd those are the kind of moments you remember forever.

“If we can take in that atmosphere and use it to an advantage and not let it scare us, it is something we will have over every other team there.”

At The Hague World Cup in 2014, England endured a nightmare tournament where they never hit their strides after losing the opening match to the United States.

And Hinch admits that England aren’t looking beyond their opening match against India on July 21 in London.

She said: “The first game is hugely important for momentum and confidence for the tournament and right now I don’t personally see anything beyond that first India match. It’s a case of going out there and getting the job done.”

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The Hockey Paper



I watched my first game in buggy, says England hockey star Giselle Ansley

Lizzie Edmonds


Champion: Giselle Ansley playing for England, and as a child in love with her sport (AFP/Getty Images)

Hockey star Giselle Ansley has paid tribute to her mother, who introduced her to the sport when she was a baby — setting her on the path to glory.

The defender, 26, who was part of the gold medal-winning team at the Rio 2016 Olympics, said she was inspired by her mother Sue from a young age and wouldn’t be the player she is today without her.

“My dad played cricket and squash, and my mum played hockey,” she said. “I was watching my mum play hockey from my buggy on the side of a pitch. Sport has been a part of my life and my family from the moment I was born.”

Ansley, who grew up in Devon but is based in Surrey, playing for Surbiton club, has two sisters, Esme and Carmen, and a brother, Sebastian, all of whom also love sport. Even the family’s dog Coco gets involved when they play at home. “Coco comes to some matches but she is a bit nervous — she sort of watches and doesn’t want to get involved. Maybe she is scared, but when we play cricket at home she is the ball collector. So even the dog plays sports. It really is a family affair.”

She is backing an England Hockey campaign called Behind Every Great Player, highlighting the importance of the people who support sports stars. Of her parents, she said: “They are a big part of why I played and why I have the passion even now. They gave me the opportunity to play sport but also really inspired me and got me to love sport like they do.”

Ansley said that introducing children to sport is “the most amazing thing” that a parent can do. “I will 100 per cent pass it on to my children and encourage them to be sporty. My life would be totally different without sport and it is such a huge part of my life. My parents also showed me how important being active is generally — another important thing for young people to learn.”

The champion is due to represent England at the Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup taking place in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park this summer. She spoke about achieving her “dream” of winning gold, and how rather than making her complacent, it had made her hungrier for success. “The Olympics was a pinnacle in my career and I reached it age 24,” she said. “People ask me how I am going to keep going after that, keep pushing. I stood on the podium with a gold medal round my neck — something I dreamed of and didn’t think would happen — and it left me wanting more. I want to do that again.”

The Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup comes to London from July 21 to August 5 and is the biggest female sporting event of the year. Tickets from £22 for a family of four at seetickets.com/hockeyworldcup

The Evening Standard



Australia tested to the max: a look back at the Hero Hockey Champions Trophy London 2016


Australia and India played out the 2016 Final Photo: FIH/Getty

It was drama beyond the final whistle at the Hero Men's Hockey Champions Trophy London 2016 as India and Australia battled for supremacy through the 60-minute match, a subsequent shoot-out and then a team referral.

The 2016 Hero Hockey Champions Trophy provided the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre at the Olympic Park in London another chance to show just how well the city hosts our sport. A packed, noisy stadium greeted the players and with the traditional British rain holding off most of the time, it was a Champions Trophy to remember.

With the 2016 Olympics just around the corner, the event provided a high quality competition in which the world’s best teams could test themselves. While the home support for Great Britain was vociferous, the multi-cultural nature of London meant that flags were flying for every team.

Eventually it was Australia who lifted the trophy but not before an inspired India had pushed their opponents all the way. The result at the end of full-time was 0-0, but both teams had created plenty of chances to steal the match.

Blake Govers had seen a penalty stroke saved and Indian dominance in the second half of the game had drawn some impressive goalkeeping from Kookaburras shot-stoppers Andrew Charter and Tyler Lovell, who shared goalkeeping duties on the day.

Lovell was the man chosen for the shoot-out and made some crucial saves, with goals from Aran Zalewski, Daniel Beale and Simon Orchard giving Australia a 3-1 triumph in the one-on-ones.

"As a team we executed our skills well in the shoot-out and were able to win a drama-packed finish to the game."
Tyler Lovell, Australia

The players had to wait a little longer for the official result to be confirmed due to a referral from the India team in relation to one of the shoot-out decisions. A review of the incident showed that no change to the result was necessary and the world number one ranked team lifted the trophy for the 14th time.

Reflecting back, Australia's shoot-out hero, Tyler Lovell, said: "The 2016 Champions Trophy final was a typical close final game against India who were playing some really good hockey. To perform under the pressures of a major tournament final was pleasing. As a team we executed our skills well in the shoot-out and were able to win a drama packed finish to the game."

Australia had been the overwhelming favourites to lift the trophy – particularly as they ended the group stages undefeated – but India were very much the unknown quantity. The silver medal was the best result the Asia team had recorded at a Champions Trophy, surpassing the bronze medal claimed at the 1982 event in Amstelveen, Netherlands.

In the bronze medal match, hosts Great Britain were beaten 1-0 by Germany - the sole goal coming from Marco Miltkau who finished the tournament as top scorer. Belgium beat Korea 4-3 in a 4-3 thrilling game to take fifth place, with Korea finishing in sixth.

It was further joy for Germany as Tobias Hauke was named Player of the Tournament while Great Britain’s George Pinner saw off some very strong competition from the other goalkeepers to take Best Goalkeeper Award.

With the final ever Men’s Hockey Champions Trophy taking place in Breda, the Netherlands, hockey fans can expect some fabulous hockey from the teams determined to get their names on that trophy one last time.

Tyler Lovell is as excited about the prospect of another Champions Trophy medal as he was in 2016: "This year's Champions Trophy, as the final one, will have a bit more meaning to everyone. It provides an excellent platform for our younger players to gain valuable major tournament experience. Champions Trophy is another great opportunity for us to continue to develop our game and learn more about ourselves. As always, we will go into the tournament with high expectations of winning."

With Breda gearing up to host the 37th Men’s Rabobank Hockey Champions Trophy, expect the stands at the BH & BC club to be awash with orange as the host nation face competition from reigning champions Australia, Argentina, Belgium, India and Pakistan. The event offers one of the last opportunities for these teams to play competitively before the Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup Bhubaneswar 2018, adding even more spice to the occasion.

#HCT2018

FIH site



Kookaburras To Face Germany In Champions Trophy Warm-Ups

Alexie Beovich



The Kookaburras will ramp up preparations for their Champions Trophy title defence with two matches against Germany in Moers this weekend.

Australia are in Europe ahead of the 2018 Champions Trophy which will be played from 23 June to 1 July in Breda, the Netherlands.

The world number one Kookaburras will face world number five Germany from midnight AEST on Sunday and Monday 17-18 June.

This year’s Champions Trophy represents the last time the famous tournament will be played, to be replaced by the new FIH Pro League in 2019.

The world number one Kookaburras will come up against the Netherlands (ranked fourth), Argentina (2016 Olympic gold medallists and ranked second), Belgium (ranked third), India (ranked sixth) and Pakistan (ranked 13th) at the Champions Trophy.

All of Australia’s Champions Trophy games will be broadcast LIVE on Fox Sports.

Hockey Australia media release



Butali, champions Police clash in top-of-the-table duel

By AYUMBA AYODI

Butali Sugar Warriors will be on revenge mission when they take on champions Kenya Police in the highlight of men’s hockey Premier League this weekend at City Park Stadium.

The battle that will go down on Sunday at 5pm is one of the four men’s Premier League matches on the cards this weekend in Nairobi.

Both teams have 21 points each but it’s Butali, who enjoys the lead on better aggregate with a match at hand, having played seven matches. Butali, the 2015 champions, is the only side yet to concede this season.

The 2016 champions Strathmore University will be away to Kenya Colleague of Accountancy-University (KCA-U) at 2pm while Park Road Badgers take on Wazalendo at 4pm in other men’s Premier League matches today at City Park.

KCA-U will also host visiting Nakuru at 3pm on Sunday before Butali and Police battle all at City Park.

Last season, Butali failed to recapture the title they won last in 2015 when they lost two matches including 2-1 against Police whom they later drew with 1-1 in the second leg. The other loss (3-1) was against Greensharks.

Strathmore University dethroned Butali in 2016, beating them 3-0 on post-match penalties in the play-off final to bring the season to a dramatic finale. The two teams locked 1-1 in regulation time.

Butali and Police failed to meet in 2016 since the championship was held in pools hence separating them.

This will be the third time Butali and Police are facing off with the first time coming in 2015 when they met in the final. It’s the enterprising Zack Aura who netted a double as Butali rallied from behind to down Police 2-1 and lift the title.

Butali had adopted their new name, changing from Kisumu Simba.

“Our focus this season is to reclaim the title unbeaten,” said Butali’s team manager Kamal Sembi. “We lacked seriousness last season especially in the first leg, which would eventually cost us but that mistake won’t happen this time.”

Police coach Patrick Mugambi said they are ready for a better show than last season. “We want the three points so as to keep Butali in check even if victory will be decided on aggregate,” said Mugambi adding that it won’t be easy. “We must avoid losing since it will be difficult to catch up with Butali if they go six points clear.”

Mugambi noted that Police of this year isn’t different from last season’s winning outfit. “The only difference is that we lost our head coach Kenneth Kaunda. We want to celebrate this this year by defending the title he won for us,” said Mugambi.

Butali’s formidable striking force led by new signing George Mutira comes up against Police’s firing line of Amos Barkibir and Calvins Kanu.

Willis Okeyo will marshal Police midfield that has Brian Saina, Vincent Odindo and skipper Oliver Echenje up against Brian Musasia, Frank Wanangwe and Barnabas Odhiambo.

With Robert Masibo out, his place at Police backline has been covered by Kennedy Sibweche, who will be assisted by seasoned defender Richard Birir and Victor Wekesa with Martin Agesa between the posts.

Butali’s defence will be marshalled by skipper Ken Nyongesa and Constant Wakhura what with Linus Sang as keeper.

FIXTURES

Saturday

Men’s Premier League:-

KCA v U Strathmore (2pm); Parkroad Badgers v Wazalendo (4pm)-City Park

Women’s Premier League: - USIU v JKUAT (12pm)-City Park

Women’s Super League: - Nakuru v UON (1pm)-Nakuru

Men’s National League:- UoE v Bay Club (2pm)-Eldoret; Mombasa West v JKUAT (3pm)-Mombasa; Kabarak University v Kimathi University (3pm)- Nakuru

Men’s Super League:- Wazalendo Masters v Mvita XI (6pm) City Park

Sunday

Men’s Premier League:- KCA-U v Nakuru (3pm)-City Park; Butali v Kenya Police (5pm)-City Park

Women’s Premier League:- Vikings v USIU (11am)-City Park

Men’s Super League: Impala Mvita XI (9am)-City Park; TUK v Kabarak University (1pm) City Park

Daily Nation



Hockey 5s to feature in the Youth Olympic Games for the second time

by The Hockey Paper



Hockey 5s will be included for the second time at the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) as the International Hockey Federation (FIH) plans to expand worldwide interest in this shortened variation of the sport.

It is often said that innovation is the driving force behind success – particularly in the sporting arena. Hockey 5s made its first appearance at youth Olympic level back in 2014 when the games were held in Nanjing.

The five-a-side version was an instant hit with the Chinese audience who relished the speed and skill that the smaller pitch promotes. Hockey’s worldwide governing body is pinning its hopes for widening the global audience for the sport and bringing new players into the fold through the screening of matches in this year’s YOG due to be held in Buenos Aires.

Jon Wyatt, the Olympian and ex-GB international and who if the current director of the FIH’s sport and development division proclaims that the YOG is the perfect stage to showcase Hockey 5s. He enthused about this version of game’s power to excite and commented that the YOG in the ideal vehicle to bring the game to a wider section of the viewing public.

The International Hockey Federation is part way through a ten-year plan to expand hockey’s profile, and a key part of their strategy is to interest and inspire more people to take up the sport. They believe that Hockey-Fives are an excellent way to broaden the game’s appeal, as the shortened branch of the sport is easier for people to acquaint with and simpler for them to become engaged.

The smaller number of participating players in a match makes it more flexible with regard to organising games.

The simple facts are that it isn’t necessary to find 22 players (you only need 10), and you don’t have to locate full-sized pitches. One of the great attractions about the game of soccer is that all you need is an open space, a few friends, a ball and a couple of jumpers for goalposts, to get a game going. The FIH is trying to make informally playing hockey just as simple.

Jon Wyatt will be at the Youth Olympic Games in South America later in the year for the Hockey 5s when the Australian boys’ team and the Chinese girls’ team will be defending the titles. This time around, the competition will be even tougher. In Nanjing four years ago20 teams took part. This year in Buenos Aires there will be 24.

This in itself is a testament to the growing popularity of 5s, something which the Federation will have a knock-on effect regarding the full 11-a-side format. One sign of a sport’s popularity is when it features on sports betting sites. Something that is yet to happen for hockey, although it may be possible to lay bets on the 5s as we get closer to October when the YOG begin.

Many different sports now feature shortened versions including things like five-a-side football, Futsal, Golf-Sixes, Rugby Sevens, and T20 Cricket. The fact that the YOG will include Hockey-Fives again allows for further experimentation and an opportunity to fine-tune the sport.

Since Nanjing, some changes have been made including slightly smaller pitches and reduced playing periods. It makes for a more intense and exciting contest. For participating players, it also promotes speed and close control and helps individuals to develop into keener athletes.

The Hockey Paper



Scotland U16 squads for this weekend’s action against Ulster

Scotland U16 girls’ and boys’ are both in action against Ulster this weekend with the girls playing in Glasgow and the boys competing in Belfast.

The Scotland U16 boys’ matches are being played at Jordanstown in Belfast while Scotland U16 girls are in action at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre, the first match of which proceeds the final match of the Italian Series where Scotland women play World Cup bound Italy.
Fixtures

Fri 15 June | 5pm | GNHC | Scotland U16 girls v Ulster (Before Scotland women v Italy at 7pm)
Fri 15 June | 7pm | Belfast | Ulster v Scotland U16 boys
Sat 16 June | 12pm | GNHC | Scotland U16 girls v Ulster
Sat 16 June | 12pm | Belfast | Ulster v Scotland U16 boys
Sun 17 June | 10am | GNHC | Scotland U16 girls v Ulster
Sun 17 June | 10am | Belfast | Ulster v Scotland U16 boys*

*Please plenty of time for travel due to the Sunday men’s 10k when Ballater Street is closed.

Squads

Scotland U16 Boys

Cameron Bosi
Calum Douglas
Scott Menzies
Louis Gardiner
Charlie Jack
Euan Burgess
David Macrae
Alistair Douglas
Daniel Pearson
Alex Wilson
Ben Galloway
Jake Inglis
Keir Robb
Euan Menzies
Ben Carroll
Iain McFadden
Joel Davenport
Cameron Bell

Scotland U16 girls

Match 1

Jessica Buchanan
Maddie Boyes
Aisha Saini
Amy Salmon
Grace Drummond
Charlotte Simmers
Lucy Williamson
Nina Constable
Georgia Crooks
Sophie Hinds
Corrie Hay
Faith Joubert
Katie Swanson
Ellie Rutherford
Lucy Smith
Zara Mason
Ellie Stott
Ellie Mackenzie

Match 2

Jessica Mitchell
Maddie Boyes
Aisha Saini
Amy Salmon
Hannah Miller
Lucy Williamson
Nina Constable
Holly Shepherd
Georgia Crooks
Izzy Lamotte
Corrie Hay
Sophie Atherton
Katie Swanson
Emily Simmers
Ava Smith
Jen Tait
Zara Mason
Anna Hoolaghan

Match 3

Maddie Boyes
Jessica Mitchell
Grace Drummond
Lucy Williamson
Hannah Miller
Holly Shepherd
Charlotte Simmers
Faith Joubert
Sophie Hinds
Izzy Lamotte
Lucy Smith
Ellie Mackenzie
Emily Simmers
Ellie Rutherford
Zara Mason
Jen Tait
Ellie Stott
Anna Hoolaghan

Scottish Hockey Union media release



Ashford juniors recreate historic Rio Olympic Final


Ashford hockey juniors. Photo by Steve McCarthy

We all remember where we were on that historic night two years ago when Great Britain women made history beating Netherlands in penalties to claim the Olympic Gold medal.

Fast forward and we a just weeks out ahead of the Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup, hosted in London this summer. Clubs across the country have been embracing World Cup fever hosting an array of events under the Your World Cup campaign, from Back to Hockey to family World Cup themed fun days.
 
Ashford hockey club decided they would recreate that special night in Rio and give the juniors at the club a day to remember. On Sunday 10th June two sides of 12 – 16 years olds took to Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre as they battled it out as Great Britain v Netherlands.

The squads of sixteen were mixed and the game, which was played as four 15 minute sections (the same as in the final in Rio), was excellently umpired by two National League umpires. There was walkouts, anthems, handshakes, mascots and a loud crowd of family and friends to roar the sides on! Team Managers Claire Brant (NED) and Ian Parker (GB), both of whom coach AHC Junior sides. 


Ashford hockey juniors. Photo by Steve McCarthy

Ashford president, Lynne Morgan shared with us what went down on this sunny Sunday, could Great Britain juniors come away champions? Or could the Netherlands of Ashford cause an upset?

‘It was played at a good pace and with lots of noise coming from the stands. It was GB who dominated the first quarter though, with Alex McCelland opening the scoring for GB with a fine solo run and then notching a second by deflecting in a shot just before the first break.

‘The crowd were joined shortly after the start of play by Olympic GB, Gold and Bronze hockey medallist Helen Richardson-Walsh, who played and scored in the Rio final. Helen was impressed by the standard of play and good team work being shown by both teams. Both goalkeepers Jack Barber (GB) and Daniel George (NED) were playing well and thwarting both sides’ attempts at goal. The Dutch side were controlling play in the second quarter, but were unable to convert the chances they were creating into goals.’

‘The third quarter saw the Dutch again dominating long periods of play a bit like the final itself, only for Harry Parker (GB Captain), to notch a third goal for GB, rather against the run of play, but the Dutch continued to press forward. Although the score stood at 3-0 to GB, there was still all to play for in the final quarter and Captain of the Dutch side Flick Lawton managed to pull a goal back early on to make the score line 3-1.

‘Encouraged by their Team Manager Claire Brant, the Dutch side kept going forward and went very close to scoring a second goal, and had wave after wave of attack and nearly pulled a goal back.  It was not to be though and as the final whistle blew, GB duly won another exciting final, this time without the tension of penalty shuttles.’


Helen Richardson-Walsh at Your World Cup Ashford HC. Photo by Steve McCarthy

All the players, Team Managers and the two umpires were duly presented with medals by Helen Richardson-Walsh, along with miniature sticks for the Players of the match who were Lily Imi for GB and Pierre Henry-Ndangan for NED.

AHC Chairman Ian Jenkins rounded the day off with a short speech after an historic day in the history of the Club and one which the players, parents and supporters will not forget. Thanking every one involved to make it happen. 

It certainly sounds like the future is bright for Ashford hockey club - they have certainly got into the World Cup fever!

England Hockey Board Media release

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