News for 11 April 2016
All the news for Monday 11 April 2016
New Zealand inch towards final
Defending champions New Zealand inched their way to a place in the final with a win over Japan.
The 4-1 win gives the Kiwis a total of eight points after four matches and they remain unbeaten so far.
New Zealand had recorded two draws and a win in their earlier matches while Japan had lost all three.
This was the Kiwis chance to stake a claim for a spot in the final next Saturday and they went for the kill from the first whistle.
New Zealand opened scoring in the 4th minute through Nick Wilson and Simon Child doubled the advantage in the 13th minute.
Kazuma Murata reduced the deficit in the 20th minute.
However New Zealand stepped up the pace as the Japanese wilted playing their second successive match at 1600H, the humidity affecting them.
And the Kiwis widened their lead through a penalty corner converted by Nic Woods in the 27th minute.
Hugo Inglis put the issue beyond doubt by scoring the fourth in the 58th minute.
Unofficial Sultan Azlan Shah Cup site
Aussies are unstoppable
Former champions Australia have a leg in the final of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup after a 4-0 win over Pakistan at the Azlan Shah Stadium.
The Pakistanis defended well but failed to match he defensive work at the front.
The Australians had total control of the game and it was only a matter of time that scored after initial defensive play by the Pakistanis.
The last time the Pakistanis beat Australia was in 2002 Champions Trophy with a 2-0 margin.
There were two drawn matches after that and from 2006 the Pakistanis have not drawn or won any of the 13 matches they have played.
Thus a thrashing was expected in the game.
In the last meeting at the World league semi-finals in Antwerp the Australians won 6-1.
But the Pakistanis defied the odds to keep it scoreless in the first quarter.
In the second quarter the Australians finally found the much-needed break through off the second penalty corner attempt.
A switch in variation in the 24th minute stumped the Pakistanis. Instead of a direct flick Chris Ciriello choose to relay the ball to Blake Govers, who sounded the board with a strong push.
That was all the World Champions could show for as the second quarter ended.
But it all changed in the third quarter as the Australian scored two goals in quick succession to move into easy zone.
Thomas Craig scored in the 41st minute while veteran Jamie Dwyer added the third a minute later.
The Australians domination was complete as the Pakistanis hardly had a look at their opponent’s goal or gained any penalty corners in the match.
Aran Zalewski added the fourth goal in the 52nd minute off a field attempt.
Australia now seen headed to the final.
Unofficial Sultan Azlan Shah Cup site
Scrappy India edge Canada
It was another listless performance by India but it was enough for them to register a 3-1 win over Canada.
The match between the two teams who are in the same pool at the Rio Olympics was poor to say the least as both teams were cautious.
India had won their opening match 2-1 against Japan before going down 5-1 to Australia.
As for Canada, they lost their opener 3-1 to Pakistan before holding New Zealand to a 1-1 draw before beating Japan 3-1.
Indian midfielder Manpreet Singh was back to play in the tournament after conducting the last rites for his Father who passed away on Wednesday .
And it took India three minutes to open scoring as Chandanda Thimmiah deflected a long pass from Rupinderpal Singh.
Although India started dominating play, it was Canada who scored against the run of play as Keegan Pereira ghosted behind the defence to tap the ball past Indian keeper Harjot Singh.
After surviving three Canadian penalty corners, India made good the first they were awarded with Hermanpreet Singh scoring in the 42nd minute to put India 2-1 up.
India cane close to widening their lead when Sardar Singh broke through but his reverse hit bounced off the post.
Talwinder Singh scored three minutes from time to assure India of the three points.
Unofficial Sultan Azlan Shah Cup site
Australia defeat Pakistan 4 - 0
Kookaburras win their third match at Azlan Shah
Holly MacNeil
Australia took on Pakistan tonight to win their third round clash at the Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh, Malaysia.
The competition started immediately, with both teams going out hard to become the first to get a goal on the scoreboard. Although the game was fierce in the first quarter, both teams failed to score with the Pakistan defence doing a great job of keeping the Kookaburras fighting attack at bay.
Going into the second quarter on an even playing field, chances to score were missed by the Australian team until the 24th minute of the game when Blake Govers managed to convert a penalty corner to the scoreboard.
At half time Australia led the Pakistan team 1 – 0. Into the third quarter and some early shots at goal were missed, but Tom Craig brought it back for Australia in the 41st minute with a field goal. Just one minute later, and Jamie Dwyer flicked it into the net for another field goal taking Australia’s lead up to 3 – 0.
With their confidence back after two goals in the third quarter the Kookaburras eased comfortably in to the fourth quarter, notching up another goal with Aran Zalewski fighting off two Pakistan defenders to slot in a field goal.
Kookaburras Senior Assistant Coach, Paul Gaudoin said: “It was a really solid performance by our guys. We were able to contain Pakistan very well which was highlighted in the intensity of the game.
“It’s a little disappointing that we didn’t execute more of the chances at goal, but it’s something that we can work on. We only gave away a few chances to Pakistan, so we really controlled the game for the duration.”
The Kookaburras next play New Zealand on Tuesday at 4.05pm AWST / 6.05pm AEST.
KOOKABURRAS 4 (1)
Blake Govers 24 (PC)
Tom Craig 41 (FG)
Jamie Dwyer 42 (FG)
Aran Zalewski 52 (FG)
PAKISTAN 0 (0)
Results & Fixtures, today
JPN 1 – 4 NZL
AUS 4 – 0 PAK
CAN 1 - 3 IND
Kookaburras’ squad v Pakistan
Started
Fergus Kavanagh (Gerladton, WA) 219/15
Jacob Whetton (Brisbane, QLD) 102/44
Matthew Dawson (Killarney Vale, NSW) 35/6
Simon Orchard (Maitland, NSW) 190/55
Flynn Ogilvie (Wollongong, NSW) 22/10
Jamie Dwyer (Rockhampton, QLD) 354/235
Matthew Gohdes (Rockhampton, QLD) 146/48
Tristan White (Wollongong, NSW) 69/3
Chris Ciriello (Melbourne, VIC) 180/114
Aran Zalewski (Margaret River, WA) 80/10
Andrew Charter (Canberra, ACT) 106/0
Used Substitute
Blake Govers (Wollongong, NSW) 20/18
Jeremy Hayward (Darwin, NT) 48/17
Mark Knowles (Rockhampton, QLD) 278/22
Eddie Ockenden (Hobart, TAS) 265/64
Tom Craig (Lane Cove, NSW) 19/17
Unused Substitute
Matthew Swann (Mackay, QLD) 129/6
Tyler Lovell (Perth, WA) 61/0
Kookaburras’ fixtures
Tuesday 12 April – Kookaburras vs New Zealand - 4.05pm AWST / 6.05pm AEST
Wednesday 13 April – Kookaburras vs Japan – 6.05pm AWST / 8.05pm AEST
Friday 15 April – Kookaburras vs Canada - 6.05pm AWST / 8.05pm AEST
Saturday 16 April - TBC
Hockey Australia media release
Class act from Australia in Azlan Shah Cup
By Jugjet Singh
WORLD No 1 Australia played another classy match to beat Pakistan 4-0 in the 25th Edition of the Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh Sunday.
And after three straight wins, Australia are on course to play in the final yet again.
Blake Govers started the count with a penalty corner goal in the 24th minute, and then four-time Olympian Jamie Dwyer set up Thomas Craig in the 41st minute.
And just after the re-start, Dwyer nailed the third in the 42nd minute.
Aran Zalewski (52nd) made it 4-0.
Defending champions New Zealand beat Japan 4-1 to get back into the title challenge in the Azlan Shah Cup Sunday.
With eight points after three matches, the Kiwis have two more tough matches to play against Australia on Tuesday and India on Wednesday.
The New Zealand goals were scored by Nick Wilso (4th), Simon Child (13th), Nic Woods (27th) and Hugo Inglis (58th).
Kazuma Murata scored for Japan in the 20th minute.
In another match India beat Canada 3-1 with goals Chandanda Thimmaiah (3rd), Harmanpreet Singh (41st) and Talwinder Singh (57th). Keegan Pereira (23rd) scored for Canada.
RESULTS: Japan 1 New Zealand 4, Australia 4 Pakistan 0, Canada 1 India 3.
April 11: REST DAY.
April 12: Australia v New Zealand (4pm), Pakistan v India (6pm), Malaysia v Canada (8.35pm).
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
AUSTRALIA 3 3 0 0 14 2 9
N ZEALAND 4 2 2 0 13 8 8
INDIA 3 2 0 1 6 7 6
CANADA 4 1 1 2 6 8 4
MALAYSIA 3 1 1 1 8 11 4
PAKISTAN 3 1 0 2 6 10 3
JAPAN 4 0 0 4 6 13 0
Jugjet's World of Field Hockey
Australia secure spot in Sultan Azlan Shah Cup final
by S. Ramaguru
IPOH: Australia have virtually assured themselves of a place in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup final.
The Kookaburras hammered Pakistan 4-0 for their third win in as many matches to top the seven-team standings with nine points. Pakistan have three points.
The two teams have met 13 times since 2006 – and Australia have won every single game.
So, it was no different at the Azlan Shah Stadium on Sunday, with Blake Govers (24th), Thomas Craig (41st), Jamie Dwyer (42nd) and Aran Zalewski (52nd) getting the goals for the Aussies.
Australian coach Graham Reid was happy with their third straight win.
“There are still some areas to work on. We had numerous chances, but missed a lot of them.
“We’re looking forward to our next match – against New Zealand. It will be yet another tough match,” he said.
Defending champions New Zealand also enjoyed a fruitful evening, downing Japan 4-1 in an earlier match.
The Kiwis got their goals through Nick Wilson (fourth minute), Simon Child (13th), Nic Woods (28th) and Hugo Inglis (58th) while Kazuma Murata scored the lone goal for Japan in the 20th minute.
New Zealand coach Colin Batch was happy with the win as it was achieved under very humid conditions.
“I was pleased with the way we started, but we struggled a bit in the later stages,” he said.
“It was good match for us, but we have a fair bit of work to do with our penalty corner conversion. It’s still not good enough. I’m also bit concerned about the number of corners we gave away.”
Batch is happy that all the teams will enjoy a break today as his team will be up against Australia next.
“They (Australia) are always a hard team to beat and there is an intense rivalry between the two sides. I’m sure they will be well prepared,” he said.
The Star of Malaysia
Black Sticks remain unbeaten at Azlan Shah Cup
The Black Sticks beat Japan 4-1 at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia.
The Black Sticks Men have recorded successive wins following a 4-1 result against Japan at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia.
The victory sees the Black Sticks remain undefeated, banking three valuable points to move top of the standings with games still to play later in the day.
Nick Wilson, Simon Child, Nic Woods and Hugo Inglis scored goals for New Zealand in an energy sapping game played in 37 degree heat.
Head coach Colin Batch said it was a good performance given the temperature, which forced extended quarter and halftime breaks.
"I thought we dealt with the heat pretty well, we started very well and scored a couple of early goals which gave us a good edge," he said.
"We were one man down in defence with Blair Tarrant injured but I thought we coped well, and both Devon [Manchester] and Kyle [Pontifex] played well in goal.
"The rest day will be important for us and we're looking forward to the next challenge against Australia who we know are always tough to beat."
It was a fast start from the Black Sticks who lit up the scoreboard in the fourth minute when Wilson put a nice finishing touch on a cross from Child.
The Black Sticks doubled their lead in the 13th minute from a super piece of work from Child who followed up on his own deflected shot to slot past the goalkeeper.
Japan responded five minutes into the second quarter with a fast break allowing Kazuma Murata to score a well worked field goal.
New Zealand capitalised on a 27th minute penalty corner with Woods firing into the back of the goal to give his side a 3-1 halftime advantage.
With the second half looking to end goalless, Wilson came up with some more magic in the 58th minute dribbling a bouncing ball through traffic and hitting towards goal for Inglis to get the final touch.
The Black Sticks have a rest day tomorrow before going up against trans-Tasman rivals Australia on Tuesday at 8pm (NZ time).
The New Zealand Herald
Black Sticks men maintain unbeaten record at Sultan Azlan Shah Cup with Japan win
Nick Wilson played a leading role in New Zealand's win over Japan ANDREW CORNAGA/PHOTOSPORT
The Black Sticks men have given their chances of reaching the final of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup a huge boost after recording their second-straight win in Malaysia.
After drawing their first two matches at the tournament, the defending champions backed up Saturday's win over Pakistan with an impressive 4-1 victory against Japan in stifling conditions.
The result temporarily moved the Kiwis to the top the standings ahead of second-place Australia's clash with Pakistan later on Sunday.
They take on their trans-Tasman rivals on Tuesday before wrapping up round-robin play against India the following day.
New Zealand had been guilty of starting slowly in previous matches but there were no such problems on Sunday.
The Kiwis hit the lead in the fourth-minute after Japan failed to clear a Simon Child cross, with Nick Wilson on the spot to pick up the scraps.
Child then bagged a goal of his own in the closing stages of the first quarter with a determined piece of play.
The veteran striker dribbled his way into the circle before whipping in a fierce shot which rebounded off the keeper. But there was no saving the second shot as Child followed up his own deflection to make it 2-0.
The second quarter did not start as well for the Black Sticks, with a defensive error giving Japan the chance to pull one back.
Kiwi goalkeeper Devon Manchester's diving effort stopped the initial shot only for Kazuma Murata to sweep in the loose ball.
Despite the setback, New Zealand continued to dictate terms and three minutes before halftime they restored their two-goal buffer when Nic Woods fired in from a penalty corner for his fourth goal of the tournament.
Japan had a chance to get back into the contest midway through the third quarter after a mounting a sustained period of pressure deep in New Zealand territory.
But despite two penalty corners, they came up empty handed as the Kiwis remained in control heading into the final period.
Japan continued to press but again to no avail and the Black Sticks completed a deserved victory when Wilson's shot was deflected in by Hugo Inglis in the shadow of fulltime.
NZ 4 (Nick Wilson, Simon Child, Nic Woods, Hugo Inglis) Japan 1 (Kazuma Murata). HT: 3-1.
Stuff
India gets by Canada 3-1 at Azlan Shah Cup
Shaheed Devji
PHOTO: Brenden Bissett battles with Kothajit Khadangbam in Canada’s 3-1 loss to India at the 2016 Azlan Shah Cup.
In a matchup of Olympic-bound teams, India beat Canada’s men’s field hockey team 3-1 in group play Sunday at the 2016 Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh, Malaysia.
The two teams, who will be grouped together at the 2016 Olympic Games, played a close game that ended in a 1-1 scoreline at the end of the first half, and saw India score two second half goals for the win.
David Carter played the full sixty minutes for Canada and was relied upon to keep the Canadians in the game at times, while Canada will be disappointed it did not convert on a few opportunities to score at key points during the game.
The Indians, who are ranked 7th in the world, got off to a quick start, scoring the game’s first goal in the 3rd minute of play when Chandanda Thimmaiah finished off a play that left him alone in front of Carter.
Canada settled into the game quite quickly after that, and at the end of the first quarter had its first real opportunities to tie the game. On a corner, Gordie Johnston was able to release a good dragflick low and to the right of Indian goalkeeper Harjot Singh, but the keeper was just able to get a stick on it and direct it wide.
India went back on the offensive to start the second quarter and forced Carter to make three quick saves in succession to keep the deficit at one.
The saves proved to be timely, as only three minutes later in the 23rd minute, a free hit was played quickly in the midfield by Mark Pearson, who moved the ball to Matthew Sarmento who then found an open Keegan Pereira in the circle.
With Brenden Bissett standing in front as a distraction, Pereira was able to put the ball by keeper Akash Chikte, who came in in relief of Singh in the 16th minute.
The Canadians had a chance to take the lead in the final moments of the half, but couldn’t convert on late two corners. The game was tied at half-time.
In the second, Canada had another opportunity to go ahead, this time off the rush in the 37th minute. Matthew Sarmento received the ball in full flight and spotted a charging Matthew Guest at the far post, but the ball hopped over Guest’s stick and went out the other side.
The Canadians would rue not taking their chances as only four minutes later, India pushed back and earned a corner which was converted by a flick from Harmanpreet Singh in the 41st minute.
Carter came up big on multiple Indian chances in the fourth quarter but the Canadians couldn’t put another by the Indian keeper and took the 3-1 loss.
Next up, Canada will face the host Malaysians in both teams’ next match on Tuesday at 8:35pm in Ipoh (5:35am PT/8:35am ET in Canada). Malaysia and Canada are tied in points with 4, with the hosts holding a game in hand.
Field Hockey Canada media release
India beat Canada 3-1 in Sultan Azlan Shah Cup
IPOH (Malaysia): India squandered numerous scoring chances before two late goals sealed their 3-1 victory over Canada in the 25th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament on Sunday.
Failing to exert pressure despite taking an early lead, India hung on grimly against several threatening Canadian raids to clinch their second victory in three outings.
Chandana Thimmaiah opened the Indian account in the third minute, but Keegan Pereira equalised for Canada in the 23rd minute to make it 1-1 at half-time.
Harmanpreet Singh converted a penalty corner in the 41st minute and Talwinder Singh capitalised on a Sardar Singh cross into the circle in the 67th to seal the fate of the match.
With six points from three outings, India are now third in the round-robin league standings. On top of the table are Australia with nine points from three successive wins, followed by New Zealand on eight from four outings.
Earlier in the day, Australia outplayed Pakistan 4-0, while New Zealand defeated Japan 4-1.
India's defence came under a lot of pressure against Canada, who are also drawn with India in Group B of the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
Goalkeeper Harjot Singh made a blunder of conceding the first penalty corner, but made a few good saves before he was replaced by Akash Chikte in the second quarter. Both the goalkeepers saved four good cracks at the Indian citadel from the Canadian strikers.
India opened the scoring in the third minute off a fine long ball by Rupinder Pal Singh from deep inside the Indian territory that found unmarked SV Sunil on top of the Canadian circle.
Trapping the ball cleanly, Sunil sent a cross that beat goalkeeper David Carter and left Thimmaiah to top the ball into an open goal.
The game thereafter was confined to the midfield until Canada forced their first penalty corner in the 13th minute and the low shot from Gordon Johnston was blocked by Indian custodian Harjot.
Harjot again came to India's rescue in the next minute when he made another fine save on Pereira's lunging reverse drive from close range.
India then had a brief period of domination when they thrice made forays into the rival scoring zone, but failed to get their shots past the compact defence in the crowded circle.
It was against the run of play that Canada equalised in the 23rd minute on a fine counter when a long ball was relayed by Matthew Sermento to Pereira in the circle. With plenty of time and space allowed to him, Pereira made no mistake with his deft shot past the hapless goalkeeper.
Talwinder Singh had a chance to put India ahead again in the 27th minute when he received a cross from the left inside the circle, but the Canadian goalkeeper covered his shot well to ward off the danger.
Then it was again Canada's turn to give India some jitters as Sukhi Panesar took a shy at the goal, followed by two penalty corners in the last two minutes of the first half. One of the penalty corners attempts went wide and Chikte moved well to his right to palm away a low shot.
India were put in the lead again in the 41st minute by Harmanpreet's rasping drag-flick on their first penalty corner. The stinging shot brooked no denial and ended in the top left corner of the net.
Ramandeep Singh had a fine opportunity to bolster the Indian lead in the 45th minute when he received a through ball from captain Sardar Singh in the circle. Ramandeep had only to beat a close-marking defender, but turned around and shot straight into the goalkeeper's pads.
Canada forced two penalty corners and the Indian defence lived dangerously before the ball sailed across the goal-line.
Talwinder capitalised on a fine opening created by Sardar's run down in the left flank and the defence splitting cross to the top of the circle.
The Times of India
Oltmans dismayed at careless Harjot conceding penalty corner
IPOH (Malaysia): Indian hockey team coach Roelant Oltmans expressed his displeasure at the careless manner in which goalkeeeper Harjot Singh padded a ball outside the circle to concede a penalty corner to Canada in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament on Sunday.
India were leading through a third-minute goal when Harjot put out his pad to stop the ball outside the circle and gave Canada the first of their five penalty corners in the contest.
India prevailed 3-1 over Canada for their second win in three matches, placing them in the third place in the points table. India are behind Australia (nine points from three games) and New Zealand (eight points from four matches).
"He casually gave away the penalty corner. That's just unacceptable," Oltmans said after the match.
Harjot did well to effect a save by blocking the low penalty corner shot. He also saved a few dangerous Canadian moves, but was substituted by young custodian Akash Chikte at the end of the first quarter.
Chikte also brought off some five saves as India held their ground against Canada's goal-bearing moves.
Oltmans said Harjot has been playing hockey for a long time and should have known the consequences of such casual play.
"I took Harjot off the pitch because of this careless act. I cannot condone such acts," said Oltmans, who felt India played well in the second half and deserved to win this match.
Canadian coach Anthony Farry also said India were the better side and deservedly won the encounter.
"India showed their class and were the better side. The victory was well-deserved," said Farry, adding that his side would take the gains from this match to prepare for their Olympic Games encounter against India in Rio de Janeiro four months from now.
Both India and Canada are placed in Group B of the Olympic men's hockey competition.
Latest Comment
such things should have been discussed with Media as Indian media is not matured enough for handling such statements.Braj Kishore
Oltmans felt this match would not reflect much on the Olympic preparations.
"There will be a lot of changes in both teams between now and the Olympics," said Oltmans, who has brought several youngsters here to Ipoh to provide them international exposure.
The Times of India
Australia in Azlan Shah final with Pakistan rout
IPOH - Australia’s place in the final of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup seems beyond doubt as they pick up a third win in the tournament in Ipoh.
The Aussie, who were frustrated by their rivals strong defensive game, laboured to a 4-0 win over Pakistan. The Aussies had hammered Pakistan 6-1 when the two sides last met at the same stage in the tournament two years ago.
Pakistan had restricted Australia to a 1-0 lead at halftime and were increasingly frustrating the Aussie forwards. But that was only until late in the third quarter when veteran Jamie Dwyer showed two moments of brilliance to bring them a deserving scoreline. Dwyer also picked up the Man of the Match Award.
Australian coach Graham Reid was happy to have won their third match. “There are still some areas to work on. We had numerous chances but missed a lot of it. The turnover in terms of goal scoring chances was good,” he said. “We are looking forward the next match with new Zealand. It will be another tough match,” he said.
Pakistan, despite being forced to defend in numbers, relied more on their counter attacks to trouble their rivals. It was not until the 24t minute in the second quarter that Australia finally breached the Pakistani wall of defence.
After missing an earlier penalty corner, Australia made a variation to their second penalty corner in the 24th minute. Instead of Chris Ciriello, the ball was relayed to Blake Govers, who sounded the board with a strong push to give the Kookaburas a hard earned but deserved lead.
Australia could not convert two more penalty corners that came their way and took a slim 1-0 lead at the halftime break. The third quarter was headed the same way with the Aussies being frustrated by the dogged Pakistani defence but all that changed two moments of magic by Dwyer.
In the 41m the veteran created a goal out of nothing. He tapped an out bound ball back to Thomas Craig, who had the easiest task of slotting in their second goal. A minute later Dwyer, turned goal-scorer. He picked up a pass from Chris Ciriello and beat Pakistan keeper Imran Butt for the third time. Aran Zalewski hit the final nail when he beat two Pakistani players on the turn at the top D before releasing the ball into goal in the 52nd minute. Pakistan coach K. M. Junaid said they had a plan to contain the Australians but if failed to work.
“We knew what to expect and had a plan to keep the Australians at bay. It worked early in the game but then they had so many chances that it was a matter of time they scored. We should have made better effort while counter attacking. Still it is a learning experience for my young players and they will gain from it. We will keep improving and try hard to win the remaining matches,” said Junaid.
In second match New Zealand defeated Japan 4-1. The Black Sticks made clear of their intent with an attacking game from the first whistle. They opened score as early as the fourth minute. Nick Wilson picked up his first goal of the tournament after he scooped in a pass from captain Simon Child from close range. In the 13th minute Simon Child doubled the Kiwi lead. He dribbled his way into the circle from the right to send in a cracker which rebounded off the pads of Takashi Yoshikawa. But the ball spilled back into his path and his second shot gave the Japanese keeper no chance.
In the 20th minute a Black Sticks defensive error allowed Hiromasa Ochiai into top D with only Devon Manchester to beat. His shot was stopped by the Kiwi keeper but Kazuma Murata was there to sweep in the loose ball to pull one back for Japan.
Just as it looked like Japan were on the rise, New Zealand quickly put a damper on it with a goal from the set-piece through goals from Nic Woods and by Nick Wilson. India also bounced back from their heavy defeat to Australia, with a hard earned 3-1 win over Canada. The win puts India in third spot of the standing ahead of Canada, but with a game in hand.
India, who had beaten Canada when they last met at the tournament two years ago, started off looking for a goal with their all out attacking game.
In the third minute they took a lead from a quick counter. A long pass from their own half was collected by Rupinder Pall Singh well inside the Canadian deep end. Chandanda Thimmiah in turn collected his cross and but first attempt was deflected by keeper David Carter but Thimmiah still managed to squeeze in the ball with his second attempt from close range.
In the 23rd minute, India’s Harjeet Singh comes close to increasing his sides lead but the Canadians launch a quick counter attack and drew level with a well-placed push from Keegan Pereira. With the score level, Canada began to push forward and event managed to force another two penalty corners. But, they were unable to make much of it with Akash in fine form. In the 41st minute, India managed to earn their first penalty corner of the game. It was a well taken flick from Hamanpreet Singh. His attempt hit the right post and rocketed into goal. India continued to push forward but poor finishing cost them dearly. But they managed to increase their lead in the 57th minute. In a move started by Sardar Singh, India almost fumbled the golden opportunity. But Talwinder Singh showed presence of mind to make fire a short on the turn for the goal. Sardar was adjudged as the Man of the Match for his commanding role in midfield for India.
STANDINGS
Pos Team Played w D L Points
1 Australia 3 3 0 0 9
2 New Zealand 4 2 2 0 8
3 India 3 2 0 1 6
4 Canada 4 1 1 2 4
5 Malaysia 3 1 1 1 4
6 Pakistan 3 1 0 2 3
7 Japan 4 0 0 4 0
Results
India 3-1 Canada
Australia 4-0 Pakistan
New Zealand 4-1 Japan
The Nation
Jamie Dwyer dazzles as Australia outplay Pakistan
IPOH (Malaysia): Jamie Dwyer's dazzling stick work inside the circle spurred Australia to a 4-0 victory over Pakistan in the 25th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament on Sunday.
World champions Australia stayed on top of the round-robin league standings with nine points from three successive victories.
Defending champions New Zealand, who today defeated Japan 4-1, are in the second spot with eight points from four outings.
Pakistan put up a stiff resistance despite Australia taking the initial lead through a 24th minute penalty corner conversion by Blake Govers before two goals in successive minutes featuring Dwyer took the fight out of them.
Dwyer set up the second Australian goal when he sent a reverse back-pass to Thomas Craig, who had worked up his way on the left side and made no mistake in shooting past goalkeeper Imran Butt in the 41st minute.
A minute later, Dwyer applied the finishing touch to a long through ball from Chris Ciriello as the deflection gave the custodian no chance.
Aran Zalewski rounded off the Australian scoring in the 52nd minute as he hustled past one defender on top of the circle and beat another with his low shot into the boards.
Pakistan, whose next fixture is against arch-rivals India on Tuesday, now have three points from three outings.
Starting with a victory over Canada in their opening match, Pakistan have suffered two successive defeats at the hands of New Zealand and Australia.
New Zealand faced no trouble in overcoming the young Japanese team, which features nine youngsters appearing in their first senior tournament.
Nick Wilson opened the account in the fourth minute in open play and captain Simon Child extended the lead with another field goal in the 13th minute.
Japan shot back through a flash strike from Kazuma Murata in the 20th minute.
The young Japanese team played a close-marking game to deny the Black Sticks until Nic Woods converted a penalty corner in the 27th minute.
Hugo Inglis flicked past goalkeeper Takashi Yoshikawa two minutes from close to round off New Zealand's scoring.
New Zealand have now won two and drawn two of their matches. For Japan this was their fourth successive loss.
The Times of India
Embarrassing display: We’ll bounce back from this setback, says head coach
Pakistan lost their second successive game of the tournament as Australia followed New Zealand’s 5-3 thrashing with a 4-0 rout. PHOTO COURTESY: MALAYSIAN HOCKEY CONFEDERATION
KARACHI: Pakistan were left shell-shocked in Malaysia yesterday as a rampant Australia thrashed the Greenshirts 4-0 in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup encounter.
Having lost to New Zealand a day earlier, Pakistan entered the match with a defensive game plan. However, that game plan was shredded by a rampant Australian attack. Pakistan not only failed to curtail their opponents, but by following a defensive plan, they failed to even threaten the Aussies.
Pakistan head coach Mohammad Khawaja Junaid, while commending the team for sticking to the game plan, rued the team’s inability to take the attack to their opponents.
“We knew Australia’s game play and had a plan to keep them at bay. It worked early in the first two quarters but we lost our way in the final two,” Junaid told The Express Tribune. “We should have found a balance between the attacking and defensive play.”
Junaid further added that despite the poor results, he was happy that the young team was gaining experience. “We tried our best to stop them but we failed. This is a great learning experience for my young players and they are bound to learn from it. We hope for a better show in the next matches,” he added.
Pakistan started the game well and were able to snuff out any Australian attacks in the opening moments and ended the first quarter 0-0. Australia’s Blake Govers drew first blood when he capitalised on a defensive lapse to score in the 24th minute.
While Pakistan managed to keep the scoreline 1-0 till half-time, Australia came out with all their strength in the third quarter and managed to increase their lead when veteran Jamie Dwyer netted in a spectacular goal and followed it up by another a minute later to make it 3-0.
With Pakistan all but silenced, the Australians completed the rout when Aran Zalewski went past two Pakistan defenders to slot the ball past goalkeeper Imran Butt to end the match 4-0.
Other results
New Zealand defeated Japan 4-1 as Nick Wilson scored the opening goal in the fourth minute of the game followed by skipper Simon Child’s 13th-minute goal to double the lead.
Nic Woods scored the third in the 27th minute and Wilson scores his second and the team’s fourth in 58th minute. Japan’s consolatory goal was scored by Kazuma Murata in the 20th minute.
The Express Tribune
Medal chance at stake as India take on Pakistan
Sardar Singh-led side will have to raise its game. (Getty Images)
IPOH: With medal hopes at stake, a scrappy India will have to lift their game by leaps and bounds when they take on sub-continental rivals Pakistan in the 25th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament on Tuesday, in what promises to be an intense encounter.
Five-time winners of the tournament, India were bronze medalists last year and are eager to stay in medal contention. But the Sardar Singh-led side, which features several youngsters, will have to raise its game by many fold after surviving a torrid time against Canada on Sunday.
India's 3-1 victory over Canada has placed them third in the round-robin league standings with six points from three outings, while Pakistan have three points from as many matches. Pakistan's lone win came against Canada by a similar margin.
World champions Australia are leading the standings with a maximum nine points from three consecutive victories, while defending champions New Zealand are on eight points from four matches.
The intense hockey rivalry between the two teams has always attracted immense interest. Despite slumping from their position as top hockey nations, an India-Pakistan encounter never fails to be a showstopper at any tournament.
The silver jubilee edition of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup will see the spotlight focused on the sub-continental encounter even as World no 1 Australia take on title holders New Zealand in another fixture the same day.
"The whole of India is waiting for the next game, but I keep telling the boys that this is just another game," said India's chief coach Roelant Oltmans.
"We should maintain focus on our game just like in any other match. We have a tough schedule starting with the match against Pakistan," said the Dutchman.
Pakistan coach Khwaja Junaid, a former international, wants his players to display their skills and control the emotions when they play India tomorrow.
"The match against India will be a turnover game," said Junaid.
"The team that manages to defend the counter-attacks better will have an edge. We are now trying to rebuild our squad. What is important is that we follow our game-strategy, play in a structure and show unity in the field," he said.
Junaid said Pakistan had brought eight young players from the squad that recently won the South Asian Games gold medal defeating India in the final.
India did not field its main squad in the South Asian Games and the top players were then playing in the cash-rich Hockey India League and were allowed to skip the tournament.
The last match in a top-notch event featuring full-strength Indian and Pakistani sides was in the Hockey World League Semifinals in Antwerp last year, which ended in a 2-2 draw.
India went on to advance to the knock-out round of that tournament, while Pakistan's hopes of securing qualification for the Olympic Games were dashed after they lost to Ireland.
The previous two encounters were the bronze medal match of the 2014 Champions Trophy in Bhubaneswar and the final of the Incheon Asian Games a few months earlier.
In Incheon, India's victory in the penalty shootout not only secured them the Asian Games gold medal after a gap of 16 years, but also secured a direct qualification to the Rio Olympics.
After other qualification events ended, India remained the only Asian team in the Olympic lineup.
Pakistan, also former Olympic champions, will be missing from the quadrennial extravaganza for the first time since their maiden appearance in 1948.
Coming after their failure to qualify for the 2014 World Cup at The Hague, it has been a major blow to Pakistan's hockey.
The next encounter between these sub-continental sides was the bronze medal game of the 2014 Champions Trophy at Bhubaneswar, where some obscene gestures during on-field celebrations by the victorious Pakistani team lead to a few suspensions and India's vehement protests to the International Hockey Federation (FIH).
Both teams want to put all that in the background tomorrow and raise their level for a fine exhibition of attractive hockey.
The Times of India
Canada wary of 15-man Malaysia..
By Jugjet Singh
CANADA coach Anthony Farry feels whenever Malaysia plays at home, it looks like they have 15 players on the pitch.
This statement came about on the eve of a crucial Azlan Shah Cup encounter between Malaysia and Canada in Ipoh Tuesday.
A win will place either team in a better footing to play in the third-fourth placing match.
Canada and Malaysia are tied on four points, but Malaysia have played one less match. Canada's last match is against Australia, while Malaysia still have Pakistan and India after this match.
"It simply amazing to see Malaysia play at home, and they have shown great form in all three matches so far. It looks like they have 15 players, not 11 on the pitch," said Farry.
Canada skipper Scott Tupper said the two teams rivalry goes back more than 20 years.
"When ever Canada and Malaysia play, over the last two decades, the matches have always been explosive and entertaining. I believe it will be the same on Tuesday," said Tupper.
The only vast difference between the teams is that Canada have qualified for the Olympics by finishing fourth in the World League Semi-finals in Argentina. While Malaysia finished sixth in the WL Semi-finals in Antwerp and did not qualify.
In Ipoh, Malaysia drew defending champions New Zealand 3-3, beat Japan 4-3 and lost to Australia 5-1.
"For sure this match will be the turning point in our Azlan Shah campaign and we have plans for full points. Canada are in the same boat, and are no pushovers, so I believe it will be difficult but not impossible to beat them," said Malaysian coach Stephen van Huizen.
Skipper Razie Rahim, who is tied on four goals as the tournament top-scorer with Pakistan's Arslan Qadir and New Zealand's Nic Woods, believes his players have the edge.
"We have played well in all three matches, and the big defeat against Australia (5-1) was because of a two-minute lapse of concentration.
"But I believe my team-mates are ready to win their second match of the tournament and keep our sights on finishing among the top-four," said Razie.
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
AUSTRALIA 3 3 0 0 14 2 9
N ZEALAND 4 2 2 0 13 8 8
INDIA 3 2 0 1 6 7 6
CANADA 4 1 1 2 6 8 4
MALAYSIA 3 1 1 1 8 11 4
PAKISTAN 3 1 0 2 6 10 3
JAPAN 4 0 0 4 6 13 0
April 11: REST DAY.
April 12: Australia v New Zealand (4pm), Pakistan v India (6pm), Malaysia v Canada (8.35pm).
April 13: New Zealand v India (4pm), Australia v Japan (6pm), Malaysia v Pakistan (8.35pm).
April 14: REST DAY.
April 15: Japan v Pakistan (4pm), Australia v Canada (6pm), Malaysia v India (8.35pm).
April 16: Classifications and Final.
Jugjet's World of Field Hockey
India women end 6th in Hawke's Bay Cup hockey tournament
(Image credit: Official website - Hawke's Bay Cup)
HASTINGS (New Zealand): The Indian women's hockey team went down 3-4 to Ireland in a penalty shootout to sign off 6th in the Hawke's Bay Cup on Sunday.
Both teams were tied 2-2 after the regulation time.
The game started with Ireland attacking strongly and earning a couple of penalty corners early in the quarter, only to be thwarted by the Indian defence.
India earned a penalty corner of their own but failed to convert it and the quarter ended goalless.
Ireland took the lead four minutes into the second quarter through Deirdre Duke. Namita Toppo's field goal in the 25th minute drew India level.
Playing at a fast pace, both teams created several opportunities in their hunt for the breakthrough. Disaster struck for India though as Rani injured her ankle and had to be attended by the physio, before eventually being helped off the pitch. The teams went into half time locked at 1-1.
Ireland earned several penalty corners in the remaining two quarters, but unlike their last encounter against India, failed to make them count.
India's defence and goalkeeper Savita held strong and didn't allow any of their drag flickers to get a clear shot on goal. Despite a few nervous moments from both sides at the end, the game headed into a shootout.
Both teams started off strongly in the shootout, and it took till the third shooter for the first miss as Ireland's Anna O'Flanagan missed with the scores tied at 2-2.
Poonam Rani missed her subsequent shot though, which meant India squandered a chance to take the lead. India went on to miss another shot later on, and lost a hard fought encounter 4-3 in the shootout.
Speaking after the match Chief Coach Neil Hawgood said, "We showed an improved performance again today, holding and breaking hard against a team that we had lost to quite badly early in the tournament. Now, we will use these experiences to build towards Rio.”
The Times of India
Junior Women's Pan American Championship - The FINALS
Damian Gordon
The final day brought the hottest temperatures of the tournament prompting the officials to use a water break at the halfway point of each half. Argentina defeated USA 6-0 in the final to claim gold, Chile defeated Canada 3-0 to claim bronze, Uruguay defeated hosts Trinidad & Tobago 9-1 to place 5th and Mexico needed a shootout to defeat Barbados 1-1 (4-3) to claim 7th place. In the Awards Lauren LOGUSH (CAN) won GK of the Tournament and Maria Jose GRANATTO (ARG) won Most Goals and Player of the Tournament.
ARG vs USA (Final)
The gold medal match got off to another fast start, despite both teams already qualifying for the Junior World Cup. Argentina took control of the match pushing the Americans all the way into their defensive 25-yard area with a high press. GK Bing had very little to do in the tournament, but when called upon she kept her team in the game with a number of spectacular saves. She was unable to keep out Sanguinetti in the 9th minute. As the half progressed the Americans were able to work their way forward and they earned a few PCs that were well defended by Las Leoncitas. The officials’ water break came and went with USA gaining in confidence and forcing more of the play in the midfield. The halftime horn came with Argentina leading 1-0. The second half started with the Americans pushing for an equaliser. It was Argentina who made the first meaningful contribution with a goal by Trinchinetti. A PC goal for Argentina before the officials’ water break made it 3-0 with USA still holding on to a slim chance of coming back. Then a brilliant 8-minute period for Argentina killed off any comeback hopes with three well taken goals. The final horn sounded with Argentina winning comfortably in the end, 6-0 to spark jubilant celebrations among the team and travelling supporters. Congratulations to the 2016 Junior Women’s Pan American Championship winners – Argentina!
CAN vs CHI (Bronze medal)
The bronze medal match got off to a fast start in the Caribbean heat. Chile was the first team to settle and they started dominating possession in the Canadian half of the field. The Canadian defence remained strong and did not allow any clear cut opportunities for their opponents except for one PC which was well stopped by Logush in goal. The officials’ water break for heat came with the teams still level. Chile came out and were finally able to break through the well organised Canadians to score three quick goals before the halftime horn sounded. By the half the Chilean team had won over the local supporters who had joined the small group of Chilean in the bleachers in a very vocal cheer. Canada started the second half very aggressively, pressing high and with a lot of speed. They forced a lot of turnovers and kept the game in the Chilean half of the field. Three consecutive Canadian PCs failed to get a goal though as Chile held firm. Under intense heat and Canadian pressure Chile continued to defend in a cool and calm manner. The final horn sounded on an impressive win for Chile, who claim 3rd place.
URU vs TTO (5-6th)
Uruguay started the match the more aggressive and soon took complete control of the play. They took advantage of their domination to score at regular intervals for a 3-0 lead when the game was stopped for an officials’ water break because of the heat. Uruguay continued to press after the mini break, but found a more determined Trinidad & Tobago team in their way. Uruguay still managed a PC goal as the play became more of a midfield battle. The halftime horn sounded with Uruguay firmly in control at 4-0. The second half began with Uruguay pushing the host team back and were rewarded with an early goal. The goals kept coming regularly for a 7-0 lead by the time the officials’ water break arrived. Trinidad & Tobago again came out with more energy and the they were rewarded with a spectacular deflection goal by Govia. Uruguay stayed in control and added two more goals before the final horn sounded on a 9-1 win and a 5th place finish.
MEX vs BAR (7-8th)
Our first match of the day between Mexico and Barbados started off with both teams making a lot of unforced errors. Barbados took the lead with their first attack of the game when Wilson’s shot went in off Inguanzo and the upright. Mexico equalised immediately after, Oviedo getting her team’s first goal of the tournament. A goal fest seemed on the cards, but instead the match continued to be a midfield battle with a lot of turnovers. Mexico started to enjoy more possession and pushed forward to try and take the lead, but the Barbados defence held firm. The teams went in at halftime with the score 1-1. The second half began and Mexico continued to dominate possession without creating clear chances. King earned a 5-minute suspension, but still Mexico did not look likely to create against a stronger, more physical Barbados team. Both teams earned PCs but a shootout still looked the most likely conclusion. Mexico created a 2 vs. 1 situation at the top of the Barbados circle, but the final horn sounded to end the game at 1-1. Mexico’s second shootout game in a row. Mexico held their nerve to win 4-3 in the first sudden-death shootout round.
Conclusion
Argentina and USA went into the final already qualified for the Junior World Cup, but both teams worked really hard to win. Chile upset the pre-tournament rankings by defeating Canada, while all the other positions remained the same.
Pan American Hockey federation media release
Kampong break back into Hoofdklasse playoff places
EHL FINAL4 side Kampong are back in the Hoofdklasse playoff places for the first time in 2016 after they got the better of Hurley 3-1 this afternoon thanks to a hat trick from Martijn Havenga.
The Utrecht side were in seventh at the mid-season break but have produced a series of excellent performances since the turn of the year to be in with a great chance of being in the playoffs.
Niek Collot d’Escury had given Hurley a 1-0 half-time lead but Havenga converted a trio of penalty corners between the 38th and 51st minute to claim the win.
Most of their near rivals drew, offering them fourth. HGC tied 1-1 with Den Bosch as Austin Smith and Gonzalo Peillat traded corner goals in the last few minutes of their game.
Amsterdam and Rotterdam also drew, 2-2, with all the goals coming in the first half. Mirco Pruyser gave the hosts the perfect start before Timmo Kranstauber made it 1-1. Robert Tigges and Mitch Darling then shared goals to leave it at 2-2 at half-time and that was how it stayed until the finish.
OZ remain second thanks to their 2-1 win over Pinoké, Benjamin Stanzl getting the crucial goal seven minutes from the end.
Euro Hockey League media release
Irish Mens EY Hockey League Weekend Round Up 
Glenanne moved into the fourth and final men’s EY Hockey League Champions Trophy place thanks to a 3-1 win over Railway Union as Shannon Boucher continued his devastating form on Sunday.
With Monkstown and Banbridge copper-fastening their playoff places on Saturday, the Glens’ win was the key result at the end of a double-weekend in the race to reach the end of season playoffs and battle for the national title.
It was hard won, though, as Railway Union had the vast amount of the play, earning 10 penalty corners and drawing a wealth of stops from Lukasz Domachowski.
Boucher opened the scoring in the eighth minute, a lead they held until eight minutes from the end when Richard Forrest equalised. The South African replied with two late goals to snatch the victory, ending Railway’s playoff chances.
Pembroke are their main rivals for fourth after they won four points out of six over the weekend. They clung on for a 1-1 draw against Three Rock Rovers on Saturday before beating Annadale 5-2 on Sunday to move into fifth, the highest they have been this season.
Rovers drop out of the top four to sixth after that tie and Sunday’s 2-1 loss to Banbridge.
Lisnagarvey, meanwhile, made it 15 wins in succession with a 5-2 Saturday win against Glenanne before nicking a 2-1 result against Cookstown on Sunday.
At the bottom, Cork C of I were the big winners as Julian Dale’s spectacular goal earned them a 2-1 win over Bann, their first success since last October.
He latched on to a speculative long ball from John Jermyn and tipped the ball over towering goalkeeper Gareth Lennox before tipping in for the winning goal.
C of I’s second game was off due to flooding in Cork but they ended the weekend three points clear of Cookstown in the relegation playoff place – a draw with Pembroke next week will see them safe.
Men’s EY Hockey League results
Saturday: Three Rock Rovers 1 (F Morris) Pembroke 1 (J Lynch); Lisnagarvey 5 (A Forrest 2, M Watt, M Nelson, J Lorimer) Glenanne 2 (S Boucher, D Keogh); Railway Union 3 (M English 2, E MacArthur) Annadale 3 (M Robson 2, J Cox); Cork C of I 2 (J Jermyn, J Dale) Banbridge 1 (S Dowds); Monkstown 2 (D Carson 2) Cookstown 1 (S Todd)
Sunday: Banbridge 2 (S Dowds, O Magee) Three Rock Rovers 1 (J Hosking); Glenanne 3 (S Boucher 3) Railway Union 1 (R Forrest); Cookstown 1 (R Millar) Lisnagarvey 2 (J Lorimer, A Williamson); Annadale 2 (M Crookshanks, A McKibbin) Pembroke 5 (A Sothern 2, T Hill, N Burns, K Lynch); Cork C of I v Monkstown – postponed, pitch flooded
Day 16 round-up (Saturday)
Cork C of I 2 (J Jermyn, J Dale) Banbridge 1 (S Dowds)
A moment of Julian Dale inspiration finally ended Cork C of I’s six-month wait for a victory in the EY Hockey League, going a long way in their bid to avoid the drop as they beat Banbridge 2-1 at Garryduff.
A cagey opening half ended scoreless with Stephen Sweetnam testing Gareth Lennox before Bann stepped up to dominate possession. Four penalty corners went incomplete with Billy Lynch, John Jermyn and Philly Smith all taking efforts off the line.
Stephen Dowds put Bann 1-0 up in the 33rd minute from a stroke after yet another corner hit a body on the line. It awoke C of I with Jermyn making an impact in midfield, especially with his link-up play with Philip Sweetnam.
Jermyn fired home a drag-flick in the dying moments of the third quarter to set up the final stanza, one which was thrill-a-minute. Dowds was brilliantly denied on the line by Jermyn before Sweetnam saw his deflected effort well saved by Gareth Lennox.
And, with two minutes to go, C of I had the winner in memorable fashion. Jermyn robbed the ball off Brad Logan on the 23m line and, on the run, launched a huge overhead behind the last defender. Julian Dale caught it at the height of its bounce to tip over the giant Lennox and walked the ball in for 2-1.
The win gives C of I a three point buffer over Cookstown in ninth place and five points over Annadale with two games to go.
Railway Union 3 (M English 2, E MacArthur) Annadale 3 (M Robson 2, J Cox)
For the second time this season, Railway Union and Annadale shared a high-scoring draw, a result that does not overly help their respective ambitions at this stage of the campaign.
The Park Avenue hosts swept into a 2-0 lead in the first quarter as Eoin MacArthur’s corner deflection and a deft Mark English reverse-stick finish put them in great shape.
But, in a heated second quarter, Dale got one back from the penalty spot after Stephen O’Keeffe felled an attacker and Michael Robson dispatched low and hard. Then, following a series of penalty corners, James Cox slotted the equaliser to make it 2-2 at the big break.
In the third quarter, Eddie Dore, Matthew Crookshanks and Matthew Allister all spent time in the sin-bin while English got the only goal with a corner drag-flick for 3-2.
Dale fought back once more as their key man, Robson, saw his first up effort blocked but it was only half-cleared and, from his knees, he evened things up. It proved the last scoring act in a lively encounter.
Three Rock Rovers 1 (F Morris) Pembroke 1 (J Lynch)
Honours even in the Dublin derby, a result that keeps both sides in the mix for the fourth EYHL playoff place but also saw them miss the chance to make a big impression on the other teams around them.
Fred Morris opened the scoring in the first few minutes when his slightly miscued shot, off the back of Luke Madeley’s incision, wrong-footed Mark Ingram. The goalkeeper was, otherwise, a key player for Pembroke in a scrappy game, marked by a lot of turnovers and miscontrols that scuppered any major momentum for either team.
Rovers held that lead until half-time but Pembroke got back on terms when Jason Lynch picked up the pieces from a rebound from a Jamie Carr save and slammed home with plenty of power.
The hosts looked the more likely to take the points in the second half, regularly finding overloads of two and three on the last defender, even when short-handed down the closing stretch. But a lack of accuracy and good goalkeeping meant the likes of Morris and Conor Empey were denied from snatching a winner.
Rovers remain fourth, one point clear of Glenanne and two above Pembroke who stay in sixth place, two points back.
Lisnagarvey 5 (A Forrest 2, M Watt, M Nelson, J Lorimer) Glenanne 2 (S Boucher, D Keogh)
Lisnagarvey made it 14 wins in succession in the EY Hockey League, denting Glenanne’s pursuit of a Champions Trophy place. The hosts made a series of changes with James Milliken coming in for John Tormey, Mark McNellis stepping in at left back with Timmy Cockram rested and Jonny Bell starting on the bench.
Mikey Watt got them in front in the third minute when Neal Glassey made a sharp turn at the top of the circle and fed his Irish international team mate who shot low into the corner.
Shannon Boucher equalised with a drag-flick but, within 20 seconds, Sean Murray fed Matthew Nelson who tapped home at the back post for 2-1. Andy Forrest made it 3-1 in the 13th minute as his miscued shot squirmed over the line.
The Glens were back in the mix when Boucher’s pace ended with a shot that Milliken saved but, from the follow-up attack, a stroke was won. David Keogh converted to reduce the deficit. They carried a bit of that momentum into the second half before Garvey started to reassert their game.
Andy Williamson procured a fine save from Lukasz Domachowski while the hosts produced one incredible spell of sustained ball control that ended with a Nelson chance.
The game was put to bed in the closing quarter. Forrest collected and turned on a Nelson pass to slot home for 4-2. James Lorimer then added a drag-flick to close out the win. The sole concern afterwards was a head injury to Bell that required some extensive strapping that may rule him out of the tie against Cookstown on Sunday.
Monkstown 2 (D Carson 2) Cookstown 1 (S Todd)
Monkstown formally got over the line to confirm their place in the EY Hockey League playoff places, edging out Cookstown thanks to two Davy Carson goals.
The sky blues made much of the early running without creating too many clear-cut chances with Gareth Watkins reversing straight at the keeper while Andrew McWhirter saw his effort well saved by David Fitzgerald.
Carson gave Town the lead in the 18th minute when he stabbed home a rebound from inches out for 1-0. They held that lead until half-time in spite of a Cookstown corner that was followed by a discarded Stephen Cole face-mask caught his brother Lee, leaving a nasty gash requiring a number of staples.
Four minutes into the second, Carson got his second when Andrew Ward controlled well on the left baseline and his timely cross was met by a sliding team mate to finish off. The same combination went close to a third moments later but the Co Tyrone side were back in it with 19 minutes to go.
Cookstown worked the ball to the left of the D, found a foot but played an excellent advantage as Simon Todd shot home from a tight angle as the host defence hesitated.
Town upped the tempo in the final quarter, creating more chances but could not break past Ian Hughes. Cookstown, meanwhile, could not take advantage when the hosts were reduced to nine men for a pair of cards. No matter, Monkstown are through to the playoffs where they will be involved in a second versus third semi-final.
Cookstown still have work to do with results from elsewhere seeing them within range of Annadale and three points shy of Cork C of I.
Day 17 round-up (Sunday)
Banbridge 2 (S Dowds, O Magee) Three Rock Rovers 1 (J Hosking)
Owen Magee’s final quarter goal in a tempestuous affair at Havelock Park saw Banbridge record their eighth win of the season on a weekend when they passage to the playoffs – which they will host – was confirmed.
After a couple of Rovers corners in the first quarter, Stephen Dowds countered in the 17th minute when he flicked home from Bann’s first set piece of the day.
The hosts welcomed back internationals Matthew Bell and Eugene Magee while Peter Blakeney was out with a knee injury as Bann held that advantage until half-time.
But Rovers were creating the odd chance and, out of nothing, Jody Hosking got the sides back on terms. Owen Magee, however, retook the lead with a flick from a narrow angle after Bell stole possession in a good position.
It came amid a flurry of cards with Drew Carlisle, Philip Brown, Harry Morris and Luke Chadwick all in the sin-bin at the same time. Bann, though, controlled the remainder of the tie. Rovers drop out of the top four as a result.
Glenanne 3 (S Boucher 3) Railway Union 1 (R Forrest)
Glenanne will take the major impetus into the final round of the men’s EY Hockey League in the battle for the fourth and final Champions Trophy playoff place as they somehow ran out 3-1 winners over Railway Union.
As so often this season, Shannon Boucher was the key man, living off scraps but he still managed to rip home a hat trick – his second treble of the season against Railway.
He gave the Tallaght side a 1-0 lead in the eighth minute but they had to survive a sustained onslaught from Railway, running up 10 penalty corners. They could find no way past the immaculate Lukasz Domachowski until 10 minutes from the end when Richard Forrest netted.
But, direct from tip off, Stu Ronan latched on to a long overhead and squared for Boucher to score. He added another for good measure at the death for a hugely important win that gives them a one-point buffer over Pembroke.
Please note:
Next weekend (April 16th) not only marks the final weekend of league matches but the winners of the league will also be presented with their trophies by EY representatives.
Hermes will receive their EY Hockey League trophy at St Andrew College following their 2pm match against UCC and EY Partner Julie Fenton will present them with their trophy and medals.
Lisnagarvey will receive their EY Hockey League trophy at Comber Road following their 3pm match against Railway Union and EY Partner Michael Kidd will present them with their trophy and medals.
Speaking about the EY Hockey League Mike McKerr, Managing Partner of EY Ireland, said “EY is extremely proud to be supporting Irish hockey at the culmination of these months of training, hard work and commitment from everyone involved. Since September, we have seen teams from all over Ireland go head to head in 18 rounds of the highest quality hockey. When it comes to leadership, teaming and developing winning strategies, there is a great deal to learn from professional sports people. Hockey is an equal sport where both men and women can compete at the same level. EY is committed to strengthening gender equality - this is one of the core reasons for EY sponsoring the EY Hockey League”.
Irish Hockey Association media release
SSTMI win inaugural Women's Junior Hockey League
PETALING JAYA: Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sports School (SSTMI) Thunderbolt lifted the inaugural Women’s Junior Hockey League title with a slim 2-1 win over Kuala Lumpur Wipers in the final.
Nor Syakirah Quari converted the winning goal from a penalty corner set-piece in the 60th minute to enable SSTMI to take home the champion’s purse of RM15,000 at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
Earlier Liyana Aqilah Sepawi had opened account for SSTMI with a field goal in the 18th minute before the City side drew level through Nurrobiatun Norhisham’s set-piece from a penalty corner in the 58th minute.
MSN/MSS Kedah took third spot when they defeated Sabah Sports School 4-2.
Roll of honour
Fairplay: SMK Tun Hussein Onn Sports School
Player of the tournament: Ellya Syahirah Ellias (SSTMI)
Best goalkeeper: Aina Nadiah Fadzil (SSTMI)
Top scorer: Nur Afiqah Syahzani Azhar - 18 goals (MSN/MSS Kedah)
Best player in the final: Nor Syakirah Mohd Quari (SSTMI).
The Star of Malaysia
Selvaraju off to Australia ...10th foreign league
By Jugjet Singh
SELVARAJU (in red)
FORMER Malaysian national player S. Selvaraju, 30, left for Australia yesterday to play in his 10th foreign league.
He last played for the country in the 2009 Invercargill, New Zealand, World Cup qualifier after which he was sidelined because of internal bickering.
"I have played in 10 overseas stints since that, and I am still in demand overseas even though locall coaches feel that I am not up to their mark," said Selvaraju.
He left for Australia yesterday to play for Greater Dandenong Warriors HC until September.
"Since 2010, I have played in New Zealand, France, Germany three times, Italy twice, Hong Kong and Thailand Leagues.
"Malaysian players are in high demand in these countries, and over the years, with my contacts there I have sent many young players to play overseas as well," said Selvaraju.
Selvaraju feels for Malaysian players to progress, they must play in overseas leagues.
"There is no spoon-feeding when you go overseas, everything is on your own and one becomes a better person as well as player in the long run," said Selvaraju.
Selvaraju who made his debut in the 2005 Junior World Cup in Rotterdam, currently plays for Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) in the Malaysia Hockey League (MHC) and also coaches the UniKL development squad.
The other nine clubs Selvaraju has turned out for are Midlands HC New Zealand, Racing Santhder HC France, Wespen HC Germany, Berliner HC Germany, Monchengladbach HC Germany, Armicora HC Italy, Pistotia HC Italy, Khalsa HC Hong Kong, Air force HC Thailand.
Jugjet's World of Field Hockey
Annual Kodava hockey festival begins
Laiqh A. Khan
The 20th annual Kodava hockey festival began at the Field Marshall K.M. Cariappa Grounds in Madikeri on Sunday.
Union Law Minister Sadananda Gowda inaugurated the 28-day-long festival by hailing the concept of community sport that serves to strengthen human relationships, which had taken a back seat the world over.
Pointing out that community hockey does not merely serve to promote ties between different Kodava families, Mr. Gowda said the sport also helps protect the community’s culture and traditions.
The Kodavas, who had contributed to the defence of the country, had also made immense contribution to hockey.
A large number of people, from different parts of Kodagu district, had arrived in Madikeri to watch the inaugural hockey match that was preceded by a cultural programme that included a procession showcasing Kodava traditions prominent being its agricultural practices.
The Kodava Hockey Academy president Pandanda Kuttappa, who is also the founder of the Kodava hockey festival, signalled the start of the festival by pushing a silver ball with the silver stick.
The annual Kodava hockey festival is being held in Madikeri after a gap of 11 years with the last one being held in 2005.
During the 2015 edition of the hockey festival organised by Kuppanda family in Virajpet, a total of 255 teams had participated.
The ongoing festival organised by the Shanteyanda family will continue till the finals scheduled for May 8.
299 teams
The festival will feature not only a record 299 teams, but also close to 5,000 players.
The Hindu