News for 11 June 2016
All the news for Saturday 11 June 2016
Patrick Rowley honoured
Pat Rowley. Photo: Hockey Writers Club
When I started Fieldhockey.com 20 years ago one of the first journalists to support and encourage my efforts was the English writer Pat Rowley, I am utterly delighted to report that Pat has been awarded a British Empire Medal for services to Hockey in the Queen's Birthday Honours list released today.
Pat started reporting on Hockey at the London Olympics in 1948 at the age of 14 and has reported on almost every Olympics since then, which made the return to London in 2012 rather special for him. We stand in awe of people who have attended 5 Olympic Games, but Pat has reported on 14! He was recognised by the FIH for this achievement at the London 2012 Games and received a replica Olympic torch as a tribute.
His contribution to hockey journalism, which has seen him working for most of the English press, is legendary and has included stints as the FIH Press officer, Editor of World Hockey magazine - a publication before the world of the Internet, in 1972 was Founder and Chairman of the Hockey Writers Club, an English based organisation for Hockey writers world wide accredited by the FIH. He helped found the AIPS Hockey Commission a branch of the International Sports Press Association for professional sports writers.
Over the years Pat has amassed a huge collection of writings and statistics about Hockey and has logged the result of every International match ever played. It would be to the immense relief of his wife Liz if the Hockey Museum - another organisation to preserve the rich history of Hockey that he helped to found in 2007, or the FIH would buy them off him, as they take up an enormous amount of space at this home! The amount of time and effort put into keeping them up to date is very considerable.
When following Hockey as a journalist and Pat is in the Press Benches, he provides a constant stream of historical data that helps the other journalists enrich their stories of the games. Statistics of results between the competing nations are always at hand - as was Pat's Pipe. All journalists remember The Pipe with most complaining about what he put into it. I swear it was year old goal keeper socks, but we were always trying to find a reason to get him to put it out. At Amsterdam during the 2000 Champions Trophy we tried to convince him he would burn down the historic wooden stands the media were housed in - stands that sadly have recently been demolished. The Pipe has got him into trouble in 1995 at the Olympic Test Event. American scribe Jawwad Qamar recalls:
"In I995, I was in Atlanta for the pre-Olympic tournament and got to meet Sydney Friskin, Bill and Jean Colwill, and Pat Rowley among others. Bill and Sydney were very generous with their advice as I was still new to all this "journalist" stuff.
I remember almost getting thrown out because of Pat's Pipe. The sun was very strong and in our faces where we were initially sitting. The seats on the opposite side of the field were closed off but we moved there and the Security people looked the other way - until Mr. Rowley lit up his Pipe knowing very well no smoking was allowed in the stadium."
At 83 Pat still plays Hockey for Southgate Hockey Club and claims to be the oldest player still playing competitive Hockey for any the club in England. We are still waiting for evidence to refute this claim.
Pat's worldwide contribution to Hockey has been immense and the following tributes to that contribution bear witness:
FIH CEO Kelly Fairweather
I’m sure the hockey family will join me in congratulating Patrick. We’re delighted that his lifelong passion and dedication to hockey has been recognised in this way and thank him for his services to our sport.
Rick Charlesworth, FIH Master Coach, former coach of Australia, Men and Women
Patrick has been the heart and soul of the game for as long as I have been involved.
His knowledge and diligence as a journalist always made his stories, articles and reports required reading.
That in itself was enough but when you add in his affection for the game and its players, and his passion to give hockey a voice, you start the understand the enormity of his contribution.
I am personally delighted that Patrick has received this well deserved recognition. Well done Patrick!
Lawrence West, Hockey Australia Media Manager, former England Hockey Media manager
Pat's knowledge of hockey's rich history is unparalleled. As a journalist he has given our sport a profile wherever he has worked and as an historian, his records and insight have been invaluable on so many occasions. This is a thoroughly well-deserved recognition of a lifelong contribution to our sport. Congratulations Pat!
Jon Cook, SA Hockey Media Officer
I have always found Pat to be extremely helpful in every respect. Pat's encyclopedic knowledge of the true 'Beautiful Game' is nothing short of remarkable. It is always a pleasure talking with media's Mr Hockey! His BEM is richly deserved - and, dare I say it, long overdue.
Mike Corby, former President English Hockey Association, former England International
Having played and been involved with the World of Hockey since I started at 13, I have enjoyed all things hockey.
During the period I was playing at Senior level for two of the top sides in the country, I met and was involved with many great, amusing and talented players.
One group associated with the hockey world and who seldom if ever received any praise were the journalists.
Hollands, Pat Ward Thomas, Lyn Wellings, Woodcock, Friskin, Lewis and Rutnagur to mention a few, came and went, but one journalist was always there at every match.
He wrote for a number of the great English Papers, under his own name and often wrote pieces for the others when they weren't there and needed a story.
Ever present and ever pleasant was Patrick Rowley.
I first met Pat when he wrote a piece about school boys when I was at Mill Hill School.
Since then, he was and is always to be seen on the touch line, come rain come shine.
I believe he may shortly receive some recognition for his dedicated service and invaluable help to all things hockey.
As such, I would like to be the first to congratulate Pat and thank him for everything he has done for the hockey world and for his support to me when needed.
Jawwad Qamar, US media correspondent
Congratulations Mr. Rowley for receiving the BEM honours for your services to Hockey at this esteem occasion - fully deserved Sir!
It was indeed a pleasure meeting you for the first time in 1995 in Atlanta at the pre-Olympic tournament followed by the Atlanta Olympics and various other international field hockey events. Thank you for always being very generous with your advice - it was such a privilege to learn from the Master!!
George Brink, owner Fieldhockey.com
Pat, many congratulations on your award. It is very well deserved and a fitting tribute to everything you have done for Hockey. Thank you for your support and mentorship with this site and I hope you and Liz have a fantastic day at the Palace when you actually receive it.
Fieldhockey.com
Queen’s Birthday Honour for Pat Rowley
by Dil Bahra
Pat Rowley at 2006 World Cup in Monchengladbach. Photo Vino John/ a2z fotos & videos
Veteran hockey writer Patrick John Phillip Rowley, better known worldwide as Pat Rowley, has been awarded the British Empire Medal for Services to Hockey in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List published today.
One of the most senior hockey writers in the world, Pat has been involved in hockey for over 65 years, as a player, coach, sports correspondent, TV & Radio Commentator, an author and an archivist. His life virtually revolves around the sport of hockey.
A leading and well respected personality worldwide in hockey press circles, his knowledge on the game is well known and respected and called upon on daily basis.
Pat, who first joined the Guardian newspaper in 1950 as a tea boy, worked his way up to become the paper’s hockey correspondent for over 40 years. As well as reporting for the Guardian, Sunday Times and Sunday Express, The Telegraph and the Observer, Pat was also a presenter of sports program at the London Broadcasting Centre (LBC) for a while.
Pat has been the PR and Promotions director for the International Hockey Federation for a number of years. He was the founder and Editor of the International Hockey Newsletter in 1969 and editor of World Hockey from June 1969 to April 1991. He was awarded FIH order of merit in 1987.
Pat is a past Chairman of the Hockey Writers Club, past Chairman of the AIPS Hockey Commission and a past co-opted member of the FIH Media and Communication Committee. He is a Trustee of The Hockey Museum.
Fieldhockey.com
Birthday Honours: Queen awards former Chronicle reporter BEM for his services to hockey
Pat Rowley covered the 1948 London Olympics for the Middlesex Chronicle and has covered nine since
By Ryan O'Donovan
Pat Rowley at the London Olympics
A Hounslow born journalist has been awarded a British Empire Medal as part of the Queen's 90th Birthday Honours for his services to hockey.
Pat Rowley has been covering hockey and sports since the age of 14 when he persuaded the editor of the Middlesex Chronicle to let him write about the 1948 Olympics from a schoolboy's perspective.
Since then Mr Rowley has covered 10 Olympics and is the only man to have covered both the 1948 and 2012 London Olympics.
His original passion was athletics, but hockey is now his number one sport, having played for the now-defunct Hounslow Hockey Club when they were one of the best in England.
Mr Rowley joined the Guardian two years after he started with the Middlesex Chronicle and has gone on to cover hockey for nearly every national paper since, and currently covers Hockey for the Sunday Express.
He joins a host of other names from west London who have been honoured as part of the Queen's 90th Birthday Honours list.
Middlesex Chronicle
Korea claim surprise win on Day 1
The Hero Hockey Champions Trophy 2016 got off to an entertaining start, with 2014 Champions Challenge winners Korea claiming a shock win against Belgium to lead the standings at the end of day one in London.
Olympic champions Germany were held 3-3 by India, while home favourites Great Britain battled to a draw against reigning World champions Australia.
Match 1: Germany 3, India 3.
Olympic and World League champions Germany began their Hero Hockey Champions Trophy 2016 title defence with a 3-3 draw against India, fighting back from 3-1 down to claim a point in the opening match of the event.
Germany youngster Tom Grambusch made his mark on the game with two goals before a late penalty stroke from Jonas Gomoll claimed a draw. VR Raghunath, Mandeep Singh and Harmanpreet Singh were all on target for a confident India team that were exceptional at times.
“We had our opportunities and we could have finished the match earlier, but we missed some really good chances in the last quarter”, said India’s Raghunath after the match. “It’s ok, a draw is a good thing against Germany, but we want to do even better going forward.”
Germany’s Oskar Deecke was reasonably satisfied with a draw, but hinted that there is more to come from his Germany team. “It was a good start against a good team, and we fought back well I think. It was a fair result, but we want to come back stronger for tomorrow’s match against Belgium.”
Match 2: Belgium 0, Korea 2
2014 Champions Challenge winners Korea (WR: 9) upset the Hero FIH World Rankings with a surprise 2-0 win over Belgium’s Red Lions (WR: 5) thanks to strikes from Yang Jihun and Jung Manjae. Although the Koreans will be justifiably delighted with the result, Belgium will rue the absence of injured penalty corner stars Tom Boon and Loïck Luypaert, with the team failing to convert any of their nine penalty corner attempts while Korea scored from their only penalty corner opportunity of the match.
Korean veteran Seo Jongho, who made his Champions Trophy debut way back in 1999 and has returned to international duty after an absence of three years, said: “Before the match, we were a little bit worried, as we have so many young players who are playing their first tournament, and the Champions Trophy is a big tournament. Today’s match was very hard, but hopefully after the game we can start feeling better and our young players can learn from this good experience today. I want them to enjoy this tournament.”
Match 3: Great Britain 0, Australia 0
Host nation Great Britain claimed a point against reigning world champions Australia, holding the top ranked Kookaburras to a 0-0 draw in the final match of day one. Despite surviving a barrage of penalty corners in the first quarter, the home favourites gave a fine performance in front of their fans but could not reward their excellent support with goal.
“It was so cagey, one of the most unusual matches between Great Britain and Australia imaginable”, said Great Britain Head Coach Bobby Crutchley after the match. “We defended pretty well, we had to for periods, particularly in the first half. Not a bad start to the event, and certainly some good individual performances but we want to improve from here on in.”
Kookaburras Head Coach Graham Reid said: “We created a lot of opportunities, we had a lot of corners that we unfortunately didn’t put away. It was a mix perhaps of execution issues, but also perhaps that Great Britain defended very well and we just have to work a little bit harder on different variations. A lot of today was getting used to the conditions here, and we did play very nicely.”
FIH site
India loses a match it could have won
s2h Team
Despite dominating the field proceedings most part of the game, India conceded a goal three minutes before the end time and settled for an avoidable but exciting 3-3 draw against defending champions Germany in the opener of the London Champions Trophy.
India took lead when experienced V. Raghunath converted team's first penalty corner in the sixth minute but debutant Tom Grahmbush levelled, also through return penalty corner. A minute later, SV Sunil set up Mandeep for giving India 2-1 lead.
Moments after lemon time, Harmanpreet converted India's early penalty corner to give India what seemed an unassiable 3-1 lead.
Meanwhile, a SV Sunil's goal was disallowed after TV replay found he footfaulted with ball before sending it home.
Germany pressed hard, and Indian vulnerability started showed up.
First Danish Mujtaba got a green card suspension during which time Tom Grahmbush struck his second goal.
Talwinder, who would later miss out a sitter, got a yellow card suspension. India conceded half a dozen penalty corners in that spell.
Germany showed enormous calm and composure in weaving patterns around now unsettled defence.
Three minutes before the hooter, Germany converted its last of nine penalty corners into a stroke, when its flick hit the leg of Pardeep Mor (3-3). Earlier, Sreejesh showed enormous athleticism in thwarting at least three sure goals, one to one with Florian Fuchs was a classic.
India never won any opener game against Germany in any FIH tournaments, and it kept its record today much against the currency of the he field proceedings.
Stick2Hockey.com
India almost beat Germany, till silly errors resulted in 3-3 draw
Sundeep Misra
India's Raghunath Vokkaliga celebrates scoring their first goal against Germany. PTI
Just when it seemed that India will pull away for a famous victory over defending champions Germany, the nine-times Champions Trophy winners came back strongly to hold the resurgent Indians 3-3 in the opening match of the 2016 Champions Trophy being played in London.
India scored through Raghunath (7th), Mandeep Singh (26th) and Harmanpreet Singh (32nd). The reigning Olympic Champions had a double goal from Tom Grambusch (26th, 36th) and the equalizer off a stroke from Jonas Gomoll (57th).
Believe it or not, India led 3-1 in the 3rd quarter and seemed to carry a punch that would have delivered more, but some fault-lines remain embedded in the DNA of Indian hockey, emerging just when India seemed to be heading to victory. The Indians threw it away with silly errors which got them temporary suspensions, and then the 9th penalty corner from Germany so cruelly given away by a wild swipe on the top of the striking circle by Harjeet Singh. It led to a penalty stroke and allowed Germany to equalize 3-3.
Indian coach Roelant Oltmans was the first to point out the errors. “The inexperience of our young players cost us the match but we will learn.” Oltmans didn’t play down the occasion either. “And, I would agree that a 3-3 draw against the defending champions is a good score.”
In the opening minutes, India held space very well as the young German side faltered in the midfield. Despite the absence of their talismanic captain Sardar Singh, India looked strong and controlled the game well. The Germans did create space, the way they usually do – knocking the ball around in dizzying geometric patterns. But the Indian forwards came back to cut the angles and thus devise the counter-attack that created self-doubt in the minds of the German players.
One of the counter-attacks set up the first penalty corner in the 7th minute and Raghunath fired a low, pacy flick to the right of the German goalkeeper Walter Tobias for India’s opening goal. The start was perfect and India needed to build on it. It seemed THE day for India when SV Sunil rushed into the German striking circle and the shot went in. But the German referral was right as the TV replays showed that the ball had hit his foot.
Germany was slowly building up the tempo and in a few concentrated attacks broke the Indian defence down. The Indian defenders were not low enough while tackling and gave away the first penalty corner to Germany in the 17th minute. A deflection off Manpreet Singh’s foot led to a second consecutive penalty corner and this time Tom Grambusch was on target as Germany equalized 1-1.
India didn’t back-pedal. On the contrary, they stepped up the attacks and gave enough space to SV Sunil by allowing him to roam free on the right flank. The opportunity came off a clearance from the Indian defence as Sunil picked up the ball and sprinted away down the flank, stretching the defence to breaking point. From the touch line, Sunil sent in a cross, in the process crashing into the ad boards. Mandeep Singh standing behind German defender Benedict Furk had the presence of mind to stretch and slap the ball into goal. India led 2-1 in the 26th minute.
India swung into action after the break, another off Sunil’s runs earning India their 3rd penalty corner. Instead of Raghunath, it was Harmanpreet Singh, the boy with ice in his veins, making his Champions Trophy debut. It was the classic, perfect penalty corner and could even be termed ‘beautiful’ the way it was created. It was again low but slightly swinging and entering the corner of the right hand German post. Even with a defender on the line, Germany couldn’t stop it. India led 3-1 in the 32nd minute. Harmanpreet Singh had crossed the zone from being a talented youngster to a full blown world class player.
Sunil’s speed was creating problems for the Germans. Even the Indian forwards were finding it tough to cope with it. A classy move, this time from the left flank saw a Sunil cross go waste as Akashdeep couldn’t reach it. A second cross, a few minutes later, was slowed down by Sunil and this time Akashdeep over stretched. But both the times, the German defence had been broken.
In the 34th minute, Danish Mujtaba, made an error, trying to stick-check and was given a green card and a suspension of two minutes. India were down to ten men and Germany pushed ahead to earn its 3rd penalty corner. Tom Grambusch didn’t make it evident that this was his debut and made the flick look easy by beating Sreejesh on the right post. Germany had cut the scores down to 2-3. India looked hassled.
Meanwhile, Talwinder, who was having a good game, messed up by crashing into a German player as the umpire showed him a yellow card with a five minute suspension. India was again down to ten men and their structure at the back and the midfield was crumbling slightly. Germany did earn a penalty corner during this period but Grambusch was on the bench. Germany wasted three penalty corners before India were back to eleven men.
With just a minute to go for the end of the 3rd quarter, Harmanpreet had the ball in the Indian striking circle and seeing Sunil without a marker, sent a through ball to him. Sunil sprinted down the right flank, beating the German defenders on pure speed, galloping away like a 400 metre Olympic runner on the final stretch and inside the German striking circle, shot on the run that whizzed past the German goalpost. It was a brilliant piece of hockey reminding everyone of the days of the magnificent Pakistan forward Shahbaz Ahmed, who for years beat some of the greatest defenders on speed and pure skill.
The 4th quarter was billed as a cracker. And off the first move, Germany suddenly found space. Moritz Rothlander was stunned to find himself ahead of the Indian defenders and only Sreejesh in front as the Indian goalkeeper charged forward to cut the gap. It was a simple one-to-one situation where the forward is the one with the advantage. But Sreejesh pushed him into a corner and saved the situation. In trying to keep the lead and win the match, India was conceding space. Yet they conjured up a move when S Uthappa crossed from the right flank. The ball flew into the air off a German defenders stick and fell in front of an unmarked Mandeep Singh. All he had to do was smash it into goal but the shot went wide as Oltmans held his head on the bench. India had thrown away the chance to close the match.
With the minutes ticking away, a desperate Germany looked for the equalizer. The Olympic Champions didn’t want an opening match defeat. In the previous 35 editions, India had beaten Germany only twice. So if Indian hands were quivering slightly, you could have put it down to inexperience of beating one of the giants of the sport. But in the 56th minute, as Germany looked for a way into the Indian striking circle, Harjeet Singh in a rush of blood, stick-checked a German forward. The resultant 9th penalty corner hit Pardeep Mor on the chest and the umpire pointed to a penalty stroke. Jonas Gomoll was on target and beat Sreejesh for Germany to equalize 3-3.
In the last minute, Akashdeep had a chance but couldn’t control to beat the German goalkeeper. As the hooter went, Indian captain Sreejesh threw his stick onto the advertising boards in frustration. The Indian captain realized that they had blown the chance of beating the Olympic Champions.
With a point taken against Germany, India now plays hosts Great Britain on Saturday.
Firstpost
India, Germany in nail-biting draw
Mandeep Singh being tackled by the German players during the Champions Trophy 2016 hockey match in London on Friday. Photo: Tony Marshall/Getty Images
India started its Champions Trophy campaign with a 3-3 draw against defending champion Germany here on Friday.
V.R. Raghunath converted a penalty corner in the seventh minute to get India a 1-0 lead.. In the 18th, S.V. Sunil has his goal reverted after referral. The ball had touched his foot just before he struck home.
Germany had a penalty corner in the 24th minute but P.R. Sreejesh managed to stop it.
Two minutes later, Germany drew level with Tom Grambusch converting a penalty corner. But Mandeep Singh’s brilliant field goal gave India a 2-1 lead.
In the 32nd minute, Harmanpreet Singh extended India’s lead with a scorcher. But four minutes later, Germany pulled one back with Grambusch converting again.
In the fourth quarter, Mandeep shot wide after a scramble in the goalmouth in the 52nd minute.
Germany’s equaliser came in the final minute through Jonas Gomoll’s penalty stroke.
The result:
India 3 (Raghunath 7-pc, Mandeep 26, Harmanpreet 32) drew with Germany 3 (Grambusch 26-pc & 36-pc, Gomoll 57).
The Hindu
India squander lead to draw with Germany in Champions Trophy opener
(AP Photo)
LONDON: India's defenders squandered the lead as Olympic champions Germany clawed their way back to earn a 3-3 draw on the opening day of the 36th Champions Trophy hockey tournament on Friday.
Enjoying the lead for most part of the encounter, the Indian defence wilted under late Germany pressure to concede the equaliser to Germany just three minutes before the hooter at the Lee Valley Hockey Centre.
Jonas Gomoll converted a 57th minute penalty stroke with a deft flick to save Germany the blushes after they had trailed behind the Indians.
From the moment V R Raghunath converted the first Indian penalty corner in the sixth minute, India had enjoyed the lead throughout, except for one minute when Germany equalised in the first quarter.
Goals from Mandeep Singh (26th minute) and Harmanpreet Singh (32nd) gave India a 3-1 lead, but Germany forced a series of penalty corners against a shaky Indian defence. Two penalty corner conversions by Tom Grambusch in the 25th and 36th minute kept Germany in the contest before Gomoll's penalty stroke restored parity.
The under-pressure Indian defenders conceded nine penalty corners and several of them were soft fouls, while their own strikers earned four at the other end.
The game began with the Indian defenders rushing out to block the early first penalty corner for Germany. The Indians then had a first look at the rival goal in the fifth minute, but Akashdeep Singh's shot was blocked by goalkeeper Tobias Walter.
Indians took the lead in the sixth minute as Raghunath converted the first penalty corner with a low drag flick into the left corner that beat the outstretched hands of custodian Walter.
Two minutes later, Indian captain and goalkeeper P R Sreejesh warded off danger by diving of his left to block a push in the crowded circle.
Striker S V Sunil picked up a diagonal ball inside the circle to shoot into the goal in the 18th minute, but it was disallowed after review, when the video umpire ruled that the ball had touched his foot.
Germany equalized through a penalty corner conversion by Grambusch in the 25th minute. Grambush's low drag flick went off the goalkeeper's pads into the net.
India regained the lead in the very next minute when Sunil's fine solo on the right run took him into the scoring circle. Sunil created the goal with a fine pass to Mandeep, who flicked past the custodian from close range.
Young penalty corner shooter Harmanpreet replicated the earlier shot by Raghunath as he placed the second penalty corner into the right corner to give India a 3-1 lead in the 32nd minute.
The Germans then took the game to India's half with a string of penalty corners and were rewarded with their second goal when Grambusch placed his drag flick beyond custodian Sreejesh's outstretched right hand in the 36th minute.
With errors creeping into India's game, Germany were able to force penalty corners almost at will, but sprayed the shots wide to give the Indians some respite.
India came close to increasing the lead in a rare attack in the 52nd minute when S K Uthappa darted into the circle and the defenders made an aerial clearance, which should have earned India a penalty corner. But Mandeep, at close range, raised his stick to pick up the rebound and shot wide in desperation. As he had taken a try, the penalty corner was not awarded.
Germany were awarded the last of their nine penalty corners in the 57th minute, and that hit defender Pradeep Mor on the body and a penalty stroke was awarded. Gomoll made no mistake with his penalty stroke and India had to be content with a draw in their opening fixture.
The Times of India
Coach Oltmans says India could have done better than 3-3 draw
LONDON: India's 3-3 draw in the Champions Trophy hockey opener with Olympic champions Germany has not impressed coach Roelant Oltmans, who feels his boys could have performed much better.
"We created some good chances, but did not capitalise on all of them. We could have done better than scoring three goals," Oltmans said after India conceded a goal three minutes from the hooter to let Germany avert the blushes.
"Our performance was okay, but I'm not fully impressed. We'll have to put up a much better show in the matches to follow," Oltmans said after the match on Friday night.
A penalty stroke conversion by Jonas Gomoll in the 57th minute shattered India's hopes of earning three points from the first outing, but they had to be content with one point.
From the moment V R Raghunath converted the first Indian penalty corner in the sixth minute, India had enjoyed the lead throughout, except for one minute when Germany equalised in the first quarter.
Goals from Mandeep Singh (26th minute) and Harmanpreet Singh (32nd) gave India a 3-1 lead, but Germany forced a series of penalty corners against a shaky Indian defence. Two penalty corner conversions by Tom Grambusch in the 25th and 36th minute kept the young German side in the contest before Gomoll's penalty stroke restored parity.
"Leading 3-1 in the third quarter, we had a few chances that could have resulted in our fourth goal. But you have to capitalise on the chances," said Oltmans.
"I would think it was a fair result in the end. We could have won 4-3 or lost by the same margin," he said.
Oltmans said everyone was aware of Germany's ability to stage a late comeback, but India too had their opening to boost the scoreline.
"We had a good chance to make it 4-1, but we did not take it. Germany managed to come back when we were down to 10 players on the pitch. It was 11 versus 10 in Germany's favour and they made full use of it," said the India coach.
Danish Mujtaba's green card left India one down and opened the space for Germany's strikers to exert pressure on India.
"The boys should learn a lot from this match. What's important is that the boys should perform in tough match conditions," Oltmans said.
The Times of India
Kookaburras draw with Great Britain
Game one of the Hero Hockey Champions Trophy 2016
By Holly MacNeil
The Kookaburras took on Great Britain tonight in their opening round match of the Hero Hockey Champions Trophy 2016 at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre in London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
The first quarter began with pace, with both teams sprinting the length of the pitch numerous times. The Kookaburras were first to get the chance a penalty corner with Daniel Beale injecting, for a trap by Simon Orchard and a goal shot by Tristan White.
This was quickly followed by a second shot at a penalty corner which was again injected by Beale, before being trapped by White and flicked by Chris Ciriello; narrowly missing the net.
Minutes later and a foul on Trent Mitton saw the Kookaburras with their third penalty corner attempt. This was followed up by three more chances at penalty corners for the Kookaburras which went unconverted.
At the first quarter break the score was deadlocked, with both teams yet to score.
The Kookaburras were after the goal in the second quarter with the first chance at a penalty corner. Glenn Turner injected, White trapped and there was a scramble at the net resulting in a penalty stroke chance for the Australians which was swiftly overturned by the video umpire.
Great Britain made the most of the ruling, and quickly had the ball back down in their circle, however it wasn’t long before Australia had another shot on penalty corner. The first attempt was blocked, with Australia getting another shot.
After the missed opportunities, the ball was back down in the Great Britain circle with a fast attempt on goal, but Tyler Lovell swiftly knocked it out of range.
Great Britain scored their first penalty corner attempt with two minutes to go in the first half. It was deflected, and they got a second chance but Lovell was fighting and saved the ball from the net with ease.
At the beginning of the second half the score was still deadlocked, and with not as many opportunities in the third quarter it remained that way going in to the final quarter of the match.
With eight minutes to go in the game Australia got a shot at goal with a penalty corner that was deflected with a great save from Great Britain Goalkeeper George Pinner. The final siren went with the score remaining level at nil all.
Head Coach Graham Reid said: “We created a lot of opportunities, we had a lot of corners that we unfortunately didn’t put away. It was a mix perhaps of execution issues, but also perhaps that Great Britain defended very well and we just have to work a little bit harder on different variations. A lot of today was getting used to the conditions here, and we did play very nicely.
“Now we have Korea up next. They are the team to chase and we only have 22 hours before our next game so we have to put this game to bed and look towards Korea tomorrow.”
Australia next play Korea tomorrow at 6pm BST / 1am AWST (Sunday 12) / 3am AEST (Sunday 12).
Results today
GER 3 – 3 IND
BEL 0 – 2 KOR
GBR 0 – 0 AUS
KOOKABURRAS 0 (0)
GREAT BRITAIN 0 (0)
Kookaburras’ squad v Great Britain
Chris Ciriello (Melbourne, VIC) 187/114
Tim Deavin (Launceston, TAS) 127/6
Blake Govers (Wollongong, NSW) 27/24
Jeremy Hayward (Darwin, NT) 55/17
Tyler Lovell (Perth, WA) 67/0
Eddie Ockenden (Hobart, TAS) 273/64
Flynn Ogilvie (Wollongong, NSW) 29/11
Simon Orchard (Maitland, NSW) 198/56
Matthew Swann (Mackay, QLD) 136/6
Glenn Turner (Goulburn, NSW) 125/90
Aran Zalewski (Margaret River, WA) 87/10
Used Substitute
Daniel Beale (Brisbane, QLD) 76/15
Josh Beltz (Hobart, TAS) 10/2
Matthew Dawson (Killarney Vale, NSW) 42/7
Trent Mitton (Perth, WA) 89/33
Andrew Philpott (Melbourne, VIC) 24/1
Tristan White (Wollongong, NSW) 76/3
Unused Substitute
Andrew Charter (Canberra, ACT) 110/0
Kookaburras’ Fixtures
Saturday June 11, AUS v KOR: 6pm BST / 1am AWST (Sunday 12) / 3am AEST (Sunday 12)
Monday June 13, AUS v GER: 2pm BST / 9.00pm AWST / 11.00pm AEST
Tuesday June 14, AUS v BEL: 8pm BST / 3am AWST (Wednesday 15) / 5am AEST (Wednesday 15)
Thursday June 16, AUS v IND: 4pm BST / 11.00pm AWST / 1am AEST (Friday 17)
Friday June 17, TBC
Hockey Australia media release
Honours even between Great Britain and Australia in opening match
Ashley Jackson takes on the Australia defence. Credit Ravi Ghowry
A terrific defensive display from Great Britain ensured they took a share of the spoils in a tense match with World No1 Australia in the Hero Hockey Champions Trophy. The Kookaburras had the lion’s share of the chances including 11 penalty corners but with George Pinner looking unbeatable in goal and the Great Britain’s defence standing strong it was honours even and a point apiece.
Australia showed their intent from the first whistle. Glenn Turner broke forwards and almost set up Flynn Ogilvie who was denied by Pinner with Aran Zalewski volleying the rebound wide. At the other end David Ames showed great power and pace to break into the Australian circle causing Tyler Lovell to dash from his line to make a smothering save.
With less than five minutes to go in the first quarter Australia won their first penalty corner. Chris Ciriello took the honours but Pinner got down well to his right to make the save. From another penalty corner with two minutes left to the break Pinner was equal to the task once more, putting a big boot on the ball to keep the scores level at the end of the first period.
At the start of the second quarter an incredible goalmouth scramble from a penalty corner seemed to have given Australia a penalty stroke. After a video referral from Barry Middleton, the decision was overturned. Australia changed their corner routine on the next chance with Ciriello striking rather than flicking but despite beating Pinner the ball was too high and no goal was given.
Great Britain tried to build their way into the contest and from a nice move Simon Mantell’s fierce shot on the turn stung the goalkeeper’s gloves. A swift break from Crutchley’s team down the right won their first penalty corner with two minutes till half time. Ashley Jackson’s fierce drag flick was well saved by Lovell high to his left and it remained 0-0.
Great Britain were pushed back by Australia and had to rely on some excellent defensive work to keep them at bay in the third quarter however, Bobby Crutchley’s side threatened in patches. A lovely pass from Middleton set up Gleghorne whose shot looked destined for the corner until Lovell somehow got a foot to the ball to keep it out.
The final quarter was absolutely frantic with both teams battling for control of the game. With nine minutes left Australia won yet another penalty corner. This time Blake Govers took the shot but once again Pinner stood firm with a super save. Great Britain thought they had won a penalty corner with the last throw of the dice but it was overturned on referral. There was still time for Sam Ward to pick up a yellow card as his foul prevented Australia making a last chance and it remained 0-0 at full time.
Great Britain defender Iain Lewers said:
“We are a bit disappointed with our quality of play but in terms of character and resilience, those qualities came through today which is really positive.”
“They’re a quality side. They have individual skills and can produce brilliance. As a team we defended well and at times when we had to defend as individuals we did it brilliantly.”
“If we can take those traits of resilience and good defence through to when it counts that will be good for us. It will be a different game tomorrow. India will have plenty of skills and trickery and they are good going forwards. We’re into the tournament now and we hope to do better tomorrow.”
In the other matches Olympic and World League champions Germany began their Hero Hockey Champions Trophy 2016 title defence with a 3-3 draw against India, fighting back from 3-1 down to claim a point. VR Raghunath gave India an early lead which was cancelled out by Germany’s Tom Grambusch. Mandeep Singh restored the advantage and Harmanpreet Singh fired home a penalty corner to make it 3-1. Another Grambusch penalty corner reduced the deficit ahead of the final quarter before Jonas Gomoll completed the scoring with an expertly taken penalty stroke to make it 3-3 at the end.
2014 Champions Challenge winners Korea upset the Hero FIH World Rankings with a surprise 2-0 win over Belgium’s Red Lions to make a superb start to the Hero Hockey Champions Trophy 2016. Goals from Yang Jihun and Jung Manjae did the damage.
All of the teams are in action again tomorrow with Germany taking on Belgium, Great Britain facing India and Australia taking on Korea.
Great Britain 0 (0)
Australia 0 (0)
Great Britain Hockey media release
GB Men draw against World Champions
By Mike Haymonds
GREAT BRITAIN men drew 0-0 with world champions Australia in their opening match at the Hero Champions Trophy in the Olympic Park.
It was the 17th draw between the two sides (only seven GB wins) in 58 meetings with the Aussies having the greater share of possession. But the GB defence was strong, successfully defending nine penalty corners, and George Pinner in the GB goal producing an inspired performance.
GB head coach Bobby Crutchley said: "It was so cagey, one of the most unusual between GB and Australia imaginable.
"We defended pretty well, we had to for periods, particularly in the first half. Not a bad start to the event and certainly some good individual performances but we want to improve from here on."
Daily Express
Britain hold World champions Australia
LONDON: Hosts Great Britain held reigning world champions Australia to a goalless draw on the opening day of the 36th Champions Trophy hockey tournament.
British goalkeeper George Pinner held his ground as they defended nine penalty corners to keep Australia at bay and split two points at the Lee Valley Hockey Centre last night.
Meanwhile, South Korea produced the first big upset of the tournament with a 2-0 victory over Belgium, who dominated the encounter.
Under pressure for most of the match from the fast-switching Belgians, the Koreans capitalised on breakaway moves and were rewarded with two goals at the other end of the pitch.
The Yang Yi-hun converted a penalty corner in the 26th minute to give South Korea the lead against the run of play.
Helped by Belgium's wayward shooting, the Koreans retained the lead by crowding their own circle.
Jung man-jae's flash strike in the 43rd minute extended South Korea's lead and dashed Belgium's hopes of bouncing back.
The Times of India
GB Men's landmark partnership with Hockey for Heroes
Alastair Brogdon in the GB Hockey For Heroes shirt. Photo credit: FIH/Getty Images
Great Britain’s Men’s Hockey team are proud to announce that they will be sporting the logo of the Hockey For Heroes charity on their shirts at the upcoming Hero Hockey Champions Trophy in London.
Hockey for Heroes is a charity which has raised many thousands of pounds for Help for Heroes, supporting wounded, injured and sick servicemen, women and veterans and their loved ones.
The Hockey for Heroes brand will adorn all of our men’s shirts as we take on the best teams in the world at the Hero Hockey Champions Trophy on the Olympic Park, and with thousands of fans in attendance and a great audience watching live on BT Sport, this partnership should bring great exposure for an exceptionally worthy cause.
England Hockey Commercial Director Jon Cockcroft said, “We are absolutely delighted to have Hockey for Heroes on board with us. It is a privilege for us to wear their logo and I know the men’s athletes have an extra feeling of pride when they pull on the shirt. We believe this partnership will bring great exposure to a wonderful charity and we are very pleased to support them.”
Gary Ryder, Managing Director of Hockey for Heroes said, "All at Hockey for Heroes are immensely proud, it really is a dream come true for us. We're grateful for this opportunity and we hope it continues to raise awareness for our charity and our cause."
GB's first game in the shirt is Friday 10th June against Australia at 8pm as we begin our #HCT2016 at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre on the Olympic Park.
For more information go to www.hockey4heroes.co.uk and to donate £2, text HFHE50 to 70070.
About Hockey for Heroes
Using Hockey as their sport, the Hockey for Heroes team work to raise funds for Help for Heroes, with their efforts dating back to 2012 and encompassing a mixture of exceptional physical exertion and family fun events, all combined with playing hockey.
In 2014 they completed a three peaks challenge – 10 days, 33 hockey games, three countries and three mountain climbs, raising over £35,000 for Help for Heroes.
In May 2017 they will be taking on their biggest challenge to date – The Stretcher Challenge! Over the course of 10 days, they will carry an injured ex-serviceman over 200 miles from Cardiff all the way to Lee Valley in London. Along the way we will visit 10 clubs, and play 30 games of hockey. Our goal for this challenge is simple – to raise as much money as possible in support of our injured servicemen and women!
To find out more, visit www.hockey4heroes.co.uk or follow them on Twitter (https://twitter.com/hockey_for_heroes) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/HockeyForHeroes/)
Great Britain Hockey media release
Dixon ready for the best of the best
Adam Dixonin action for GB
The Hero Hockey Champions Trophy is all set for action. Great Britain’s men have arguably the toughest start imaginable with World No1, World Champions and 13-time winners of the Champions Trophy Australia in their first match.
Adam Dixon, a veteran of 176 international caps is aware of the challenge posed by the Kookaburras, but is raring to get going:
“We’re really looking forward to the tournament starting today. We’re coming up against Australia fresh from a series defeat to them over there so we want to get one over them. There’s no hiding away from playing your best hockey in the Champions Trophy. It’s the best teams; a tough schedule and you have to tick all the boxes to get through the week but we’re very excited.”
The quality of the opposition is an oft-visited topic when discussing the tournament. In sport, there is an oft-visited cliché that there are no easy games. In the Hero Hockey Champions Trophy that is definitely the case. Dixon, however insists it does not make their preparations any different:
“No matter who we’re playing the amount of homework we do and the amount of detail we go into will be the same. The Champions Trophy is the best of the best and we need to bring our best to do well. That includes preparing well for each game as well as performing well. We want to try and win and build some momentum into Rio we’ll have to see how it goes but we’re in a good place”
With such a high quality tournament so close to the Rio Olympics, one has to ask how easy it is to put Olympic selection out of the picture to concentrate on the tournament.
“It’s hard not to think about Rio. It’s in the back of our minds and it’s a dream for all of us to go to the Olympics. We’re all trying to stake a claim for a place in the squad but you have to manage the distractions. There will be players from other nations who know selection is looming, too. We work hard on the psychology and we all have our strategies and how to cope and we’ll be fine.”
With the tournament being hosted in London, a partisan home crowd is expected. Dixon and his team mates have felt what it’s like to play on home soil in front of such fans, but have yet to taste glory in that setting. Is this to be their time?
“I don’t know what it’d feel like to win something like this at home, but I’d certainly like to find out! We want to put on a good show for the fans. If we play well, stay injury free and enjoy ourselves we have a good chance. We play best when we’re relaxed so hopefully we can do that.”
Great Britain Hockey media release
Jackson determined to give the fans what they want
Ashley Jackson and David Ames celebrate at full time
His nation’s all time leading scorer, the FIH World Young Player of the Year in 2009, European Champion, also in 2009, countless goals and accolades in the Hockey India League, Ashley Jackson is a global hockey star in every sense of the word.
The Great Britain man has seen it all before and with the start of the Hockey Champions Trophy almost upon us, we took a few minutes to talk to the talismanic No7 about his hopes for the tournament.
“It's an interesting one obviously. It's so close to the Olympics so it’s hard to know what other teams will do. For us alone, it's just an exciting competition really. We've now had a number of tournaments at home, at Lee Valley and it's just an exciting place to be, an exciting place to play hockey, and to be part of.”
Jackson seems like he’s been around forever. Recent Great Britain sides without him in them are practically unheard of and despite his long career, the drive and the hunger to succeed are still there in spades:
“Maybe 7 or 8 years ago I would have said winning was what drives me without even questioning it. I'd still say winning is my motivation now but actually it’s also doing what I enjoy and loving what I do.” He adds “The people that are around you are probably more important than anything else. You want to win for them because you know how much it really means for them. Being able to help provide something we’re all striving to achieve is pretty much what keeps me going.”
Jackson won the player of the tournament award at the 2009 European Championships, a competition England were victorious in. So far it is his only major international gold medal. As you’d expect, he wants to win everything he plays in, but the added incentive of doing it on home soil in front of a fanatical British crowd is something that excites the GB star:
“Yeah, that would be really cool. We're obviously going there to win the tournament, but there's a bigger picture in mind. It would be really great to win it. I've played in a final of a Champions Trophy, but it didn't feel like we really had a chance of winning it. This group is very different. We’re very determined to give the home crowd something to shout about.”
Great Britain Hockey media release
Don't miss out on all the extra fun!
As the Lee Valley Hockey Centre on the Queen Elizabeth Park gears up for the men’s and women’s Champions Trophy, we take a look at some of the activities aimed at the thousands of spectators who will be passing through the gates between 10-17 June for the men’s event and 18-26 June for the women’s event.
One thing that the 2014 World Cup in The Hague and the 2015 Unibet EuroHockey Championships in London has proven is that additional activities in and around the ground are always well received by the fans. Gaps between games, breaks between sessions and the time before the games start and the action ends are all opportunities for the fans to engage in hockey-related activities or grab a quick bite to eat or a drink.
Food stalls with cuisine from around the world, shops selling hockey goodies, activities where fans can test their hockey skills or places where friends can meet for a drink and a discussion about the games they have just seen all add to the carnival, fun atmosphere.
Here are the top 10 things that fans at Lee Valley Hockey Centre will be able to do during breaks from the action on the pitch:
- Create lasting memories at our fan photo locations. They are spread out across the venue and with calls to action clearly displayed don’t miss your chance to share the fun with the teams
- Try the latest Olympic sport “Snooky”. That’s right, this addictive game is half hockey half snooker, we think it is bound to catch on. You’ll find our custom table up in Festival Square.
- American hot dogs? German frankfurters? British bangers? Whatever nationality’s cuisine you fancy, you will find it at the Street Market. With fresh food on offer from each and every competing nation, make sure you seize the opportunity to try something new, or show your support via your stomach!
- Test your skills at The Hockey Hub. Aimed at all ages and abilities, there is loads to do throughout the tournament. Try out the activities on our inflatable pitch; have a go at stick duel, speed cage, Instagram printers and much much more.
- Satisfy that souvenir itch. With all your merchandising needs covered - from replica shirts to hockey sticks - our giant retail store has it all and is located on Festival Square. You will also find even more bars, catering outlets and plenty of big screens showing match day highlights and live sports.
- Celebrate the English summer, visit the Pimms Garden for a cooling drink and some fresh ice cream
- Looking forwards to Rio? Then lets turn the party into a carnival. Visit the FIH “Last Stop Rio!” activation space. With our very own Copacabaña, photo booth and a London Taxi there is plenty to get you moving
- Hot up on your hockey knowledge and learn all about the history of the sport in The Hockey Museum
- Grab your Hockey Champions Trophy Passport. Be sure to pick up a copy from one of our Hockey Makers for a chance to win great prizes
- This is your tournament, so for every match back a team, get your face painted, and bring the noise! Together you will make the Hockey Champions Trophy 2016 an unforgettable experience.
To find out more fan information, click here.
FIH site
USWNT Triumphs over No. 1 Ranked The Netherlands in Second Test Match
HILVERSUM, The Netherlands - Surrounded by a full stadium packed with a sea of electric orange shirts, the U.S. Women's National Team faced The Netherlands on their home turf for second and final test match in Hilversum, The Netherlands. Making the most of the international competition against the 1st FIH World Ranked team and in preparation for the Champions Trophy in London, Team USA took advantage of scoring opportunities and cohesively played defense well to triumph over The Netherlands for a 3-2 victory.
"I thought we controlled long periods of the game tonight," said Craig Parnham, USWNT Head Coach. "I was pleased with the chances we created particularly in the first half. The second half required us to deal with some added pressure from Holland to which we responded well."
The match started brilliantly for Team USA marked by strong periods of possession, circle entries and outstanding pressing. In the 6th minute The Netherlands earned a penalty corner but were unable to control the ball and the USWNT took full advance of the mistrap to initiate a quick counter attack down the field. With fluid passing Team USA covered the length of the field within seconds and saw Katie Bam (Blue Bell, Pa.) finish a rebound on the right side of the circle off the initial shot from Paige Selenski (Shavertown, Pa.) for a USA 1, NED 0 lead.
Just two minutes later, the Dutch would find an equalizer on their second penalty corner of the game when a rebound found its way back to inserter Naomi van As who was able to send a baseline pass across the defense for a tap in goal at the far post.
Team USA would start the second quarter off positively with their first penalty corner of the game which they converted when captain Lauren Crandall (Doylestown, Pa.) smashed home a direct strike in the 18th minute to give the USWNT a 2-1 advantage. Play continued to be in Team USA's favor throughout the quarter with stifling defense and outstanding attacking actions.
The USWNT looked to put the game in cruise control in the 48th minute with a fantastic build-up that covered the length of the field and ended with a pass from Michelle Vittese (Cherry Hill, N.J.) to the far post for a tap in finish by Kat Sharkey (Moosic, Pa.) to make the score USA 3, NED 1. Quick to respond, Just two minutes later the Dutch forced their way back to a reachable deficit when they converted a drag flick on a penalty corner to get within one.
The pressure would increase just minutes later when another penalty corner was awarded to The Netherlands with the crowd bringing the best out of the Dutch. After the initial shot was defended The Netherlands looked to score the equalizer on an above the shoulder redirection at the far post but goalkeeper Jackie Briggs (Robesonia, Pa.) made an unbelievable reaction save to preserve the lead.
Unable to break through, The Netherlands replaced their goalkeeper with a kicking back but Team USA's defense remained poised and was able to close out the game for the win over the world’s number one FIH ranked team by a score of USA 3, NED 2.
"The difference maker for us tonight was our team defense," said Crandall. "Our urgency made it difficult for the Dutch to create dangerous chances. A big step for us was managing the game and closing it out."
The U.S. Women's National Team will travel to London tomorrow as they continue their preparations for the Champions Trophy that begins on Saturday, June 18
USFHA media release
Phoenix Gas Series: Match 4 Ireland 1-2 Spain
Spain won the final game, in the Phoenix Gas series, played at the Univeristy of Ulster in Jordanstown this morning. The overall series was tied with two wins each.
The opening quarter was an even contest with not much goal mouth action and just one penalty corner a piece. For Ireland it was O Flanagan who won the PC in the 14m after Browns reverse cross into the D.
Early in the second quarter McFerran had to be at her sharpest making consecutive saves to keep her goal in tact. Ireland won their second PC, in the 24m, this time it was Evans who forced the Spanish error. Frazer drag was defected off a Spanish stick and it was Matthews in the right place to finish at shoulder height over the line. Spain almost bounced back in the 29m from a PC but the goal was chalked out as the initial shot at goal was too high.
Spain were sharpest in the 3rd quarter forcing Irish turn overs. They equalised in the 33m when Alicia Magaz made no mistake from close in.
Ireland started the final quarter under pressure from the Spanish press and it was from a series of unforced errors from the Irish defence which played in Bonastre for a neat finish and the lead. Ireland created some chances in the final period. Irish Coach Shaw withdrew his keeper for the last 5m but the green army could not find a way through the Spanish defence.
Ireland 1 (Hannah Matthews)
Spain 2 (Alicia Magaz, Berta Bonastre)
SIreland: McFerran, McCay, Matthews, Wilson, O Byrne, Mullan, M. Frazer, O Flanagan, Evans, Brown, Meeke
Subs: G Frazer, Beatty, Loughran, Duke, Lloyd, Colvin (not used Cassin)
Spain: Ruiz, Ybarra, Pons, Bonastre, Garcia, Magaz, Riera, GIne, Perez, Comera, Oliva
Sbs: Lopez, Petchame, Guinea, Tost, Marana, Garcia, Jimenez
Irish Hockey Association media release
Ireland 2-1 Canada
Ireland made it two from two against Canada in Belfast this evening. Two first half goals scored by Shane O Donoghue secured the victory.
Sunday 12 June Ireland v Canada 2pm Pembroke Wanderers
Tuesday 14 June Ireland v Canada 11am Trinity College Grounds, Santry Avenue
Ireland 2 (Shane O Donoghue 2)
Canada 1 (Foris Van Son)
Ireland: D Harte, J. Jackson, M Watt, E. Magee, N. GLassey, M Darling, T. COckram, M Robson, P. GLeghorne, C Harte, S Loughrey.
Subs: G Watkins, P. Caruth, S O Donoghue, M Bell, D Carlisle, L. Cole D. FItzgerald.
CAnada:,F Van Son, S Tupper, R. HIldreth, K. Pereira, A Froese, G. Johnston, M. Pearson, J. Smythe, I Smythe, S Panesar, A. KIndler
Subs: Martin, Ho-Garcia, Gill,Bissett, Sarmento, Guest (not used Carter)
Irish Hockey Association media release
Series shifts to Dublin after host Ireland takes first two games
Shaheed Devji
After scoring the first goal in the early minutes, Canada’s Men’s National Team dropped the second match of a four-game series with Ireland Friday in Belfast.
Playing in his first international game for Canada, Floris van Son scored in the 2nd minute of play to give the Canadians the first goal of the match and its first goal in two games.
The lead was short lived, however, as in the 9th minute Ireland was awarded its first penalty corner of the match.
After going scoreless on eight corner attempts in the first match of the series Thursday, the home side converted on its first chance Friday thanks to a drag flick from Shane O’Donoghue which beat Canadian keeper Antoni Kindler, who was making his first start of the trip.
The game was tied at one after the first quarter and, in the second, O’Donoghue picked up his second of the match also on a corner.
The two goals on the set piece were all the Irish would need to secure the victory. The series now moves to Dublin for two matches on June 12 (2:00pm local time/6:00am PT/9:00am ET) and June 14 (11:00am local time/3:00am PT/6:00am ET).
After completing the series against Ireland, Canada will head to Madrid for three matches against Spain.
Field Hockey Canada media release
Black Sticks duo Emily Gaddum and Samantha Charlton ruled out of Champions Trophy
Samantha Charlton picked up a hairline fracture in her hand during the International Hockey Open in Darwin. DEAN MOUHTAROPOULOS/GETTY IMAGES
The Black Sticks women have been forced to make two late changes for the Champions Trophy in London due to injury.
Veteran Emily Gaddum has been ruled out with a back injury while Samantha Charlton is recovering from a hairline fracture in her hand picked up during the International Hockey Open in Darwin.
Midfielder Kelsey Smith has been called into the team after starring in Darwin with Auckland's Julia King also slotting in as cover.
The Black Sticks flew out of the country on Friday for one off games against Netherlands and Belgium before heading to London for what serves as the final major tournament ahead of the Rio Olympics.
The Champions Trophy runs from June 19-27 with New Zealand to go up against the Netherlands, Argentina, Australia, Great Britain and USA.
They open their campaign against world No 1 Dutch on Sunday week, a day before they meet Australia who they beat 2-0 to win the final in Darwin.
The squad for Rio will be selected following the conclusion of the tournament.
Stuff
Dominant. Formidable. Colossal.
Crista Cullen celebrates scoring in the Olympic Bronze medal match against NZ in London
"Dominant", "Formidable", "Colossal" just a few words used to describe Great Britain's defensive rock Crista Cullen. The London 2012 Bronze medallist, who also finished as the tournament's top scorer is back in the squad and raring to go for an incredible summer of hockey.
With Cullen named in the group of 18 athletes to compete in the Hockey Champions Trophy this month, our sponsors Investec have come up with another inspirational video in their amazing #ourjourney series. This one charts the rise of Cullen from her school days in Kenya to the fearsome athlete she is today.
Great Britain Hockey media release
Test begins for van Huizen's back-up
By Jugjet Singh
Training before the two Tests
NATIONAL coach Stephen van Huizen will attempt to make amends in the two Test matches against Japan this weekend, after two disastrous friendlies in Kakamigahara.
Malaysia lost 5-1 and 3-1 in the two friendlies, and van Huizen said even though he did not have six regulars, he does not want it to be an excuse during the Test matches Saturday and Sunday.
"No excuses to lose by such margins to Japan even though we did not have six regulars in the squad due to various reasons. The back-up players are the best that we have in the country today, and they need to prove themselves in the next two Test matches if they want to be recognised for future tournaments," said van Huizen.
Goalkeeper S. Kumar is still nursing his thigh injury, Faiz Helmi and Fitri Saari have examinations and Shahril Saabah has family commitments (mother died).
National skipper Razie Rahim and Nabil Fiqri are back with Police training after getting a brief release to play in the Razak Cup.
Malaysia last played with a full squad against Japan in the Azlan Shah Cup and won 4-3 with two goals from Razie and one each from Fitri and Haziq Shamsul.
"Looking at the bright side, the six matches in Japan (four friendlies and two Test) will give me an insight and depth of the bench. This is important as we are preparing for the next tournament which is the Asian Champions Trophy which offers ranking points for the first time (to the top-three teams)..
"Malaysia also failed to qualify for the Junior World Cup, while Japan made it. But that does not mean we need to discard the entire juniors team as some of the players have potential to play in the senior side.
"They are being tested in Japan, and should give a better account of themselves in the two Tests to be in the circle."
Jugjet's World of Field Hockey
Western Railways down PNB to clinch Gold Cup
Varun Bector
MUMBAI: Western Railways, Mumbai (WR) cruised past Punjab National Bank, Delhi (PNB) 3-1 in the finals of the 12th PMC Bank-Guru Tegh Bahadur All-India Gold Cup at MHAL-Mahindra Stadium on Friday. PNB opened the scoring with a strike from Arjun in the 20th minute, but the equalizer was netted soon after in the 32nd minute by Malak Singh.
Western Railways passed the ball effortlessly, creating plenty of open chances, which led to an early second-half goal by Rajin Kandolna (40th). The defining moment of the game was the long-range goal by Ayyappa (53rd) from just inside the circle.
The Times of India
Rivals look for momentum as Hockey league resumes
Battles between Weatherhead and Wanainchi are always mouth-watering
By Johnson Were
The Ugandan National Hockey League enters its second week on Saturday with four games on card at Lugogo Hockey Ground as clubs look for momentum in the quest for the league title.
On Saturday Weatherhead Gazelles take on defending champions Wanainchi in the women’s league.
Battle between the two sides have always been mouth-watering and former champions Weatherhead's players Leila Blick Mayanja and Jackie Namyalo are promising a good fight as their target this year is to reclaim the title.
"We ready for them and we shall give them a good run," Namyalo stated.
However, before the women game, fans will first entertained by the men's clash between Weatherhead and Kampala Hockey Club at 2pm.
On Sunday, Deliverance Church hosts Kampala Swans in the women before defending champions Wanainchi take on Simba in the men's category at 4pm.
According to Uganda Hockey Association (UHA) the federation will use these league competitions to select national teams for international engagements.
Saturday
Weatherhead v Kampala (2pm, Men)
Weatherhead Gazelle v Wanainchi (4pm, Women)
Sunday
Deliverance Church v Kampala Swans (2pm, Women)
Wanainchi v Simba (4pm, Men)
The New Vision
Bulgarian Hockey Federation celebrates 25 years!
Bulgarian Hockey Federation is celebrating its 25th Anniversary!
While Hockey has been part of Bulgaria since the end of the 19th century, there was a lull in the sport until the 1990s, when a reinvigorated group of hockey enthusiasts got together to officially form the Bulgarian Hockey Federation (BHF). BHF was officially formed June 6th, 1991 when three sports clubs DFS Hebros, Harmanli, DFS Druzhba, and Novi Iskar CHF Academic Sofia came together with players to begin developing hockey in Bulgaria.
The first BHF President was the then-Secretary General of the Bulgarian Olympic Committee, Dimitur Haralampiev who served until 1995. Its current Executive Director, Assoc. Prof. Antonio Antonov is also a member of the EHF Development Projects Committee.
In 1991, shortly after its creation, the first National Indoor Men’s Championship is held, and in 1992 Bulgaria joins the FIH as its first National Outdoor Men’s Championship takes place. In 1993, BHF joins the European family by becoming a member of the European Hockey Federation.
A key driving force in the Balkan area, Bulgaria initiated the first Balkan Forum for the development of hockey in 1994, which was attended by representatives from Greece, Romania and then-Yugoslavia. Over ten year of cooperation later, in 2005, the first Balkan Hockey Championship (Men) was held in Sofia, cementing the hockey relationships of the region.
In its 25 years, Bulgarian Hockey has supported the creation of 57 hockey clubs, today, 33 of them are still active participants in the Federation and its activities. Bulgaria holds competitions in all age groups: U12, U14 boys and girls, U16 boys and girls, U18 boys and girls and Senior men and women.
Furthermore, BHF has pushed to establish Hockey as a university discipline in the National Sports Academy Vasil Levski, which trains specialised hockey coaches.
EHF President Marijke Fleuren and EHF Education and Development Manager Norman Hughes travelled to Bulgaria this week to take in the festivities and attend a meeting with the Bulgarian Minister of Sport, to continue working together and securing a prosperous future for Bulgarian Hockey.
EHF/Bulgarian Hockey Federation