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News for 07 November 2016

All the news for Monday 7 November 2016


Green Army Beat Scotland in Series Opener



There is rarely much to separate these two sides and their last 4 encounters has seen the Green Army win twice, draw once and lose once. The opening fixture of this 3 match series in Scotland was to be no different in the opening exchanges as the sides got off to frantic pace in chilly conditions in Clydesdale Hockey Club.

Nicci Daly, recently returned to international hockey, showed no signs of a spell away as her speed and skills put Scotland under early pressure. However, it was Grace O’Flanagan in the Irish goal who was called on first to make a top-class save and keep the score 0-0 in the opening minutes. Cliodhna Sargent, with 201 caps to her name, marshalled the backline as Scotland began to press and attack down the right. The first PC of the game came courtesy of Emma Russell but a mis-trap let Scotland off the hook. Sargent again showed her experience as she fired a pinpoint pass to a composed Nikki Evans who released the ball to captain Katie Mullan to get the final touch goal-bound to give her side the lead in the 17th minute. Less than 5 minutes later and the Green Army were 2-0 up thanks to well executed passing from Shirly McCay to Ali Meeke whose silky skills in the circle found Emma Russell to double her sides lead.

Railway Union’s O’Flanagan was in superb form all evening as she was called on to make two top saves in the opening minutes of the second half as Scotland came flying out of the blocks. But the resurgence didn’t last long as Hannah Matthews ably dealt with Scottish attacks. The Green Arm’s PC routines didn’t appear to be firing as Evans, Rebecca Barry and Zoe Wilson all won corners for their side but a third goal eluded the Irish. The two sides meet again on Tuesday in Glasgow.

Congratulations to Roisin Upton and Ellen Curran both earning their first senior international caps.

Ireland 2 (Mullan, Russell)
Scotland 0

Starting XI: G O’Flanagan, Sargent, Brown, Evans, Mullan (Captain), McCay, Watkins, Daly, Matthews, Russell, Wilson

Subs: Cassin, Pinder, Upton, Curran, Meeke, Barry, McGirr

Scotland Match Series:

Sunday 6th November Scotland 0v2 Ireland 6pm Titwood
Tuesday 8th November Scotland v Ireland 5pm National Hockey Centre, Glasgow
Wednesday 9th November Scotland v Ireland 12.30pm National Hockey Centre, Glasgow

Irish Hockey Association media release



Burras win 2016 Sultan of Johor Cup

Defeat Pakistan 3 - 1

Holly MacNeil



The Australian Burras have won the 2016 Sultan of Johor Cup for the first time after defeating Pakistan 3 -1 in the final of the tournament at the Taman Daya Stadium.

Pakistan scored the first goal of the match thanks to a penalty corner from Hassan Anwar seven minutes into the game, leaving the Burras to make a comeback. It was a short-lived lead, with Frazer Gerrard levelling the score at minute thirteen with his own penalty corner.

Coming back from the half time break, and both teams needed to do something special to take control of the game. The Burras came through, with Blake Govers awarded a penalty stroke at minute 47, giving the Aussies a 2 – 1 advantage in the final half.

With only three minutes of the game remaining, Govers secured victory for the Burras, with a penalty corner goal extending the lead to 3 – 1.
 
The squad’s participation in the tournament, a key element of the preparation for the Junior World Cup, has been made possible thanks to the support of one of Hockey Australia’s key partners, the Australian Commonwealth Games Association, through its NextGEN AUSComGames program.

The Burras will now concentrate on the upcoming Junior World Cup which will be held in Lucknow, India from December 8 – 18, 2016.

BURRAS 3 (1)
Frazer Gerrard 13 (PC)
Blake Govers 47, 67 (PS, PC)

PAKISTAN 1 (1)
Hassan Anwar 7 (PC)

Full results from Day 6:
AUS 3 – 1 PAK
ENG 2 – 2 JPN (1 – 4 SO)
MAS 4 – 1 NZL

Final Standings
1. Australia
2. Pakistan
3. Japan
4. England
5. Malaysia
6. New Zealand

Hockey Australia media release



Australia win Sultan of Johor Cup, Malaysia finish fifth

by Mohd Farhaan Shah


Johor Ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar (second, right) handing over the trophy to winners Australia at the Taman Daya Hockey Stadium on Sunday. - ABDUL RAHMAN EMBONG / The Star

JOHOR BARU: Blake Govers was the hero as Australia emerged champions of the Sultan of Johor Cup hockey tournament for the first time after a 3-1 win over Pakistan.

After Pakistan had taken a sixth-minute lead through a penalty corner conversion by Hassan Anwar at the Taman Daya Hockey Stadium on Sunday, Australia stormed back with Jack Welch scoring from a penalty corner in the 13th minute.

Govers then put Australia ahead in the 47th minute when he converted a penalty stroke. He scored his second goal of the day, this time from a penalty corner in the 67th minute.

In the battle for third spot, debutants Japan finished third beating holders England 4-1 in a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in regulation time.

Jack Clee put England ahead from a field goal in the 20th minute, but Miyu Tanimitsu converted a penalty corner in the 31st minute for Japan.

England again went in front when Jack Waller netted in the 34th minute. Kaito Tanaka dragged the match into a penalty shootout when he scored in the 55th minute.

Koji Yamasaki, Tanaka, Shinichi Kamezaki and captain Ryo Ozawa converted for Japan in the shootout while only Peter Scott scored for England.

Earlier, Malaysia thrashed New Zealand 4-1 for a fifth-place finish in the six-team Under-21 tournament.

Muhammad Najmi Farizal Jazlan (fifth), Mohamad Zulhamizan Awang Abas (10th), Muhammad Firdaus Fauzi (51st) and Mohamad Ashran Hamsani (68th). New Zealand’s consolation goal was scored by Mackenzie Wilcox in the 32nd minute.

Malaysia coach Wallace Tan congratulated his players for beating New Zealand for the second time in the tournament. Earlier in their last preliminary round match on Saturday, Malaysia were 2-1 victors over New Zealand.

“It has been a useful tournament with the players gaining a lot of experience,” said Wallace.

The Star of Malaysia



Australia overcome stubborn green-shirts in Sultan of Johor Cup final 3-1

With nothing to lose, Pakistan U-21 colts put a strong show against favorite Australia, who thrashed them 8-1 in round robin, before going down 3-1 in the final of the Sultan of Johor Cup Under 21 Hockey Tournament, which concluded on Sunday in Johor Bahru in Malaysia.

According to information made available, green-shirts surprised everyone when they went ahead in the seventh minute through the first penalty corner.

Instead of Abu Bakr, Pakistan's regular striker, also their top scorer in the event with four goals, it was 6' 3” tall Hassan Anwar who took it. His fast high flick on goal keeper's left side was unstoppable.

Australia replied in the similar manner within six minutes. Gerrard Frazer's penalty corner conversion was almost a replica of Hassan Anwar's effort.

The pace of the game went up with score-line showing 1-1.

Pakistani showed good temperament in defense and were fast to tackle Australian attacks. A melee in Pakistani circle resulted in Australia's second penalty corner in 32nd minute.

Goal keeper Muneeb brilliantly palmed it away with an outstretched left arm. The score was locked at 1-1 at the end of the first half.

The third quarter was dominated by the Aussies, who repeatedly entered Pakistan's circle. Three more penalty corners came their way.

On the fifth of the day, the penalty corner hit struck Pakistani line stopper's foot. The resultant penalty stroke was converted by Blake Govers and Australia were 2-1 ahead in the 47th minute.

Pakistan's sporadic attacks did create a few chances including their second penalty corner of the day but Australian deep defence managed to keep the lead intact.

With just four minutes left, Blake Govers' second goal off a penalty corner squeezed all hopes for Pakistani youngsters of making a late comeback.

However, securing second place on the podium in the event should be considered a good performance from Pakistan, who had never finished above fourth place at any of the five previous editions of Sultan of Johor Cup.

In the last two events, they ended at bottom-rock sixth position.

With Pakistan's second position in this tournament, it could be hoped from the green-shirts that they will put another strong show in Junior World Cup, which will be played next month from December 8-18 in Lucknow, India.

Japan secured third position followed by England, Malaysia and New Zealand in fourth, fifth and sixth position respectively.

Dawn



Australia beat Pakistan 3-1 in Sultan of Johor final

LAHORE - Australia outlasted Pakistan juniors 3-1 in the Sultan of Johor Cup U-21 Hockey final played in Johor Bahru, Malaysia on Sunday.

According to Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) spokesman, Pakistan team gave an excellent fight to the top-ranked Australia, which had beaten the green shirts 8-1 just two days back in the round robin.

The first half of the final was very well contested as the green shirts surprised everyone, when they went ahead in the seventh minute through the first penalty corner.

Instead of Pakistan's regular striker Abu Bakr, who was their top scorer in the event with four goals, it was 6'3" tall Hassan Anwar who took it.

His fast high flick on goal keeper's left side was unstoppable.

Australia replied in the similar manner within six minutes, as Gerrard Frazer's penalty corner conversion was almost a replica of Hassan Anwar's effort.

After that, the game's tempo went up as Australians started attacking.

Although Pakistan’s defence was looking good yet a melee in Pakistani circle resulted in Australia's second penalty corner in 32nd minute.

Goalkeeper Muneeb brilliantly palmed it away with an outstretched left arm as the first half ended at 1-1.

The first 15 minutes of the second half were dominated by the Aussies, who repeatedly entered the opponents' circle.

Three more penalty corners came their way and on the fifth of the day, the penalty corner hit stuck Pakistani line stopper's foot.

The resultant penalty stroke was cashed in on by Blake Govers and Australia were 2-1 ahead in the 47th minute.

Pakistan's sporadic attacks did create a few chances including their second penalty corner of the day but Australian deep defence kept the lead intact.

With just four minutes left, Blake Govers' second goal, off a penalty corner, sealed Pakistan's fate.

Pakistan should take a lot of heart from their splendid performance here.

They had never finished above fourth place at any of the five previous editions of Sultan of Johor Cup.

In the last two events, they were last sixth but this time, Pakistan played the final.

Such positive results could not have come at a better time - just four weeks before the Junior World Cup.

The Nation



Australia humble Pakistan in final to lift Sultan of Johor Cup

ISLAMABAD: Australia defeated Pakistan 3-1 in the final to win the Sultan of Johor Cup Hockey Tournament in Johor Bahru, Malaysia on Sunday. In the final of under-21 hockey teams, Australia had beaten Pakistan 8-1 just two days back in the round robin league. Many anticipated a big Australian victory in the final. But Pakistan gave an excellent fight to the top ranked side.

The first half was very well contested. The greenshirts surprised everyone when they went ahead in the seventh minute through the first penalty corner. Instead of Abu Bakr, Pakistan's regular striker, also their top scorer in the event with four goals, it was tall Hassan Anwar who took it. His fast high flick on goalkeeper's left side was unstoppable. Australia replied in the similar manner within six minutes. Gerrard Frazer's PC conversion was almost a replica of Hassan Anwar's effort.

The game's tempo went up. Pakistan showed good composure in defence and were fast on turn overs. A melee in Pakistani circle resulted in Australia's second penalty corner in 32nd minute. Goalkeeper Mohammad Muneeb brilliantly palmed it away with an outstretched left arm. The second half's first 15 minutes were dominated by the Aussies who repeatedly entered opponents' circle. Three more penalty corners came their way. On the fifth of the day, the PC hit stuck Pakistan's line stopper's foot. The resultant penalty stroke was cashed in on by Blake Govers and Australia were 2-1 ahead in the 47th minute. Pakistan's sporadic attacks did create a few chances including their second PC of the day but Australian deep defence kept the lead intact. With just four minutes left, Govers' second goal, off a PC, sealed Pakistan's fate.

Pakistan should take a lot of heart from their splendid performance. They had never finished above 4th place at any of the five previous editions of Sultan of Johor Cup. In the last two events, they were last sixth. And this time Pakistan played the final. The magnificent result could not have come at a better time - just four weeks before the Junior World Cup.

Scorers:

Pakistan: Hasan Anwar 7th minute
Australia: Gerrard Frazer 13th minute, Blake Govers 47th and 67th minutes

FINAL POSITIONS

1: Australia
2: Pakistan
3: Japan
4: England
5: Malaysia
6: New Zealand

The Daily Times



Japan get the bronze

by  Satwant Dhaliwal

Japan ensured they stood on the podium at the Sultan of Johor Cup after defeating England 4-1 in the shootout in the third-fourth placing match.

England, who lost to Japan 2-1 in the round-robin, twice took the lead but Japan refused to go down to draw 2-2 in regulation time.

"My players have got big heart and great desire to do well. That won us the match," said Japan coach Kyoichi Nagaya.

"We are grateful to be given the chance to be here. We learnt a lot and will take the experience  to the Junior World Cup."

England took the lead through Jack Clee with a reverse shot in the 20th minute but the Japanese cancelled the lead from Miyu Tanimitsu's penalty corner in the 31st minute.

Jon Bleby's men ensured they still went into the break with a lead after Jack Waller scored from open play just seconds before the half-time hooter.

Japan, who have refused to accept defeat in just about every match they've play at Taman Daya Stadium thus far, again showed their resilience and determination to turn the tie around in the second half.

They were rewarded with a goal by Kaito Tanaka after he skipped past two defenders before unleashing a shot into the top corner.

Japan converted all their attempts in the shootout with Koji Yamasaki, Kaito Tanaka, Shinichi Kamezaki and Ryo Ozawa beating Toby Reynolds-Cotterhill while only Peter Scott scored for England.

Japan goalkeeper Keita Matsuda saved attempts Jack Clee, Rhys Smith.

"I'm upset that we lost. We played some brilliant hockey but did not have execution. We need to the ball across the line," said Bleby.

Sultan of Johor Cup official site



Bleby left disappointed as England settle for fourth


Jon Bleby gives the team talk to his England U21 side

England U21 Head Coach Jon Bleby could not hide his disappointment as he watched his team slip to fourth place in the Sultan of Johor Cup after a shootout defeat at the hands of Japan.

“We’re really disappointed to lose. I actually thought our hockey and our performance was really good but our execution wasn’t good enough. We had five corners and didn’t score. We conceded one corner out of one we had numerous chances and didn’t take them.” said Bleby.

“We played some brilliant hockey but we need to get ourselves over the line and start winning games we dominate.”

England seemed in complete control of the game, boasting 67% possession and the majority of the game’s clear chances.

They took the lead in the 20th minute thanks a Jack Clee goal. Jack Waller latched onto Peter Scott’s pass and slid the ball into Clee who produced his trademark spin and shot to beat the goalkeeper.

Keita Matsuda in the Japan goal did well to extend a left foot to save a Will Calnan penalty corner as England aimed to extend their lead. Japan levelled the scores from their first real attack. Miyu Tanimitsu beat Toby Reynolds-Cotterill with a bullet drag flick from a penalty corner.

Just before the break the lead was restored for Bleby’s side. Jack Turner’s shot came back off the woodwork but Waller was alert and pounced to slam in the rebound.

England dominated the second half and Calnan hooked a penalty corner wide before Chris Proctor was somehow kept out by Mutsuda with a phenomenal save. Despite their dominance England were unable to give themselves a cushion and with 15 minutes to go they were made to pay. Kaito Tanaka found space in the circle and sent a searing shot past the goalkeeper to make it 2-2. James Gall stung the goalkeeper’s chest pad in the dying moments of the game but it ended all square and went to a shootout.

Japan scored all four of their efforts whilst Clee and Rhys Smith could not beat the goalkeeper and England were beaten.

Despite his disappointment, Bleby was pleased with his side’s efforts, saying afterwards:

“We came here to win it. We wanted to win every game and we wanted to get a medal. It’s been great development for the Junior World Cup. It’s been a fantastic tournament and I’m pleased with the progress we’ve made and we now prepare for December.”

England Hockey Board Media release



Kiwis finish sixth at Sultan of Johor Cup


Photo: Megat Firdaus

The New Zealand Under 21 Men have finished sixth at the Sultan of Johor Cup after being defeated 4-1 by hosts Malaysia in the fifth/sixth playoff.

Malaysia started the match with a high tempo, racing out to a 2-0 lead in the opening 10 minutes after goals from Najmi Farizal Jazlan and Zulhamizan Awang Abas.

New Zealand pulled one back just before halftime with Mac Wilcox scoring a well-worked goals.

But Malaysia took control in the second half and further goals from Firdaus Fauzi and Ashran Hamsani in the 51st and 68th minutes respectively sealed the result.

Hockey New Zealand Media release



Wimbledon hit six in Men's Premier Division


Beeston goalkeeper Simon Hujwan. Credit David Kissman

Wimbledon are still the only unbeaten side in the Men’s Hockey League Premier Division after putting six past Reading on Sunday.

It was Reading that took an early lead with James Carson scoring after just five minutes.

But Wimbledon hit back with two from Simon Mantell, along with goals from Phil Roper, Chad Conlon, Ian Sloan and Phillip Ball which saw them run out 6-1 winners. The result takes them up to third.

Beeston are still second after a narrow win against Hampstead and Westminster, Mark Gleghorne scoring the only goal of the game.

Home goalkeeper Simon Hujwan (pictured) was the man of the match, making a string of important saves to keep a clean sheet.

Holcombe are still two points clear at the top the table after a 2-0 win over East Grinstead, Sam Ward and Nick Bandurak being on target.

Loughborough Students almost took their first point of the season at Surbiton but were undone by two late goals.

Liam Ansell and Alan Forsyth had put Surbiton two up but Loughborough rallied and goals from Matt Ramshaw and Andrew Webb saw them draw level.

However, Gareth Furlong broke Loughborough hearts when he tucked in from a penalty corner with four minutes left on the clock, and Forsyth made it 4-2 two minutes later.

There was a pulsating end to the Brooklands Manchester University match as they claimed only their second win of the season with a 2-1 win over Canterbury.

Thomas Lush broke the deadlock from a penalty corner on 48 minutes. Then, in the 68th minute, Will Heywood stunned Brooklands with an equaliser but within seconds of the restart, Richard Slater put Brooklands back into the lead.

Men’s Conference East

Southgate won the battle of the top two in the Men’s Conference East, triumphing 3-2 at home to Sevenoaks.

Tejinder Hanspal’s tenth of the season had given the visitors - who went into the game with a 100 per cent record - a first half lead.

Second half goals from John Sterlini, Drew Burkin and Joe Bradley gave the home side victory, and despite a late consolation from Andrew Ross, Southgate moved to the top of the table.

Richmond remain unbeaten after a 2-1 win at Oxted with goals from Steve O’Connor and Joe Rich, despite Jethro Eustice levelling for the hosts.

A Matt Daly brace helped Teddington to a 4-1 home win over Wapping, and Dan Webster hit three as West Herts ran out 4-1 winners at Brighton & Hove.

Elsewhere, Darren Cheesman scored one minute from time to give Cambridge City a 2-1 win at Indian Gymkhana.

Men’s Conference North

Seven proved to be the lucky number for the University of Durham as they made it seven wins from seven with a 7-0 win at Oxton to stay top of the Conference North.

Matthew Plater gave the visitors a 1-0 lead at the break, but six goals in 19 second half minutes from Samad Suleman (2), Elliot Dowley, Cameron Rule, Ali Jordan and Charlie Stubbings gave them a convincing three points.

Olton & West Warwicks stayed second with a 5-1 win at Preston, Martin Ebbage and Jack Mallett amongst the scorers.

Ben White’s eighth of the season was enough to give Bowdon the edge in a 3-2 win at Sheffield Hallam.

Elsewhere, Nathan Smith scored six minutes from time to give Leek their first points of the campaign, a 3-2 win at Cannock, whilst Deeside Ramblers and Doncaster had to settle for a 1-1 draw.

Men’s Conference West

Cardiff & Met failed to win in the league for the first time this season, as they were held to a 1-1 draw at Cheltenham in the Conference West.

Luke Cole scored for the hosts just after the break, but Ben Carless rescued a point for the Welsh side who preserved their unbeaten start and stayed top.

The University of Exeter closed the gap to just a point with a comprehensive 6-2 win at Chichester, Ben Francis scoring a hat trick and Tom Watson adding a brace.

Adam Croutear also scored a hat trick to help Team Bath Buccaneers to a 6-1 home win over the University of Bristol.

Elsewhere, James Tindall scored his tenth of the campaign as Old Georgians won 3-2 at Isca, whilst the University of Birmingham won 2-0 at Fareham.

Men’s Hockey League (Sunday, November 6 2016):

Men's Premier Division: Beeston 1, Hampstead and Westminster 0; Brooklands MU 2, Canterbury 1; Holcombe 2, East Grinstead 0; Loughborough Students 2, Surbiton 4; Reading 1, Wimbledon 6.

Men's Conference East: Brighton and Hove 1, West Herts 4; Indian Gymkhana 1, Cambridge City 2; Oxted 1, Richmond 2; Southgate 3, Sevenoaks 2; Teddington 4, Wapping 1.

Men's Conference North: Cannock 2, Leek 3; Deeside Ramblers 1, Doncaster 1; Oxton 0, University of Durham 7; Preston 1, Olton & West Warwicks 5; Sheffield Hallam 2, Bowdon 3.

Men's Conference West: Cheltenham 1, Cardiff & Met 1; Chichester 2, University of Exeter 6; Fareham 0, University of Birmingham 2; Isca 2, Old Georgians 3; Team Bath Buccaneers 6, University of Bristol 1.

England Hockey Board Media release



Irish Women's EY Hockey League Weekend Round Up



Cork Harlequins and Hermes/Monkstown's 100% records will finally be ended when the sides meet next weekend in Rathdown after again eking out important wins this weekend.

Railway Union missed a big chance to upset the Hermes/Monkstown juggernaut as they were overturned 2-1 by the champions at Park Avenue.

Julia O'Halloran's pot shot cancelled out a Rosie Carrigan opener for Hermes/Monkstown but despite having the best of the game, Railway couldn't capitalise and Chloe Watkins won it from the penalty spot for the EYHL leaders.

They are five wins from five, but Cork Harlequins continue to match them every step of the way. They saw off their Belfast namesakes 4-2 at Farmer's Cross as recent Ireland call-up Roisin Upton made her debut for the Leesiders.

Yvonne O'Byrne's corner deflection and close-range efforts from Karen Bateman and Nicola Kerr helped build a 3-1 lead with Claire Weir responding, before Rebecca Barry's lethal reverse and another from Weir rounded out the scoring.

UCD are emerging as the greatest threat to the top two, and their unbeaten record continued as they won 2-1 at basement side Pembroke Wanderers.

All the goals came in the third quarter, with Eanna Horan giving Pembroke a shock lead from their first corner but a turnover goal expertly finished by Emma Russell and Leah Ewart's powerful corner strike carried the day for the students.

Pegasus lost ground after drawing 2-2 with Loreto, the Belfast side requiring a nerveless Hannah Grieve to nail a penalty corner after the final hooter to take a share of the points.

Earlier, Suzanne Beaney capitalised for Pegs when a harmless through ball came back off the post, but Loreto's Sarah Evans and Lauren O'Leary turned the game on its head before Grieve's late show.

Ards moved clear of the relegation zone with a 2-1 win over local rivals Ulster Elks. Chloe Brown's corner bash and a Lucy McKee counter-attack effort had them cruising before Cork native Emily O'Leary pulled one back, but Ards survived a late onslaught to take all three points.

Women's EY Hockey League: Railway Union 1 (J O'Halloran) Hermes/Monkstown 2 (R Carrigan, C Watkins); Cork Harlequins 4 (Y O'Byrne, K Bateman, N Kerr, R Barry) Belfast Harlequins 2 (C Weir 2); Pembroke Wanderers 1 (E Horan) UCD 2 (E Russell, L Ewart); Pegasus 2 (S Beaney, H Grieve) Loreto 2 (S Evans, L O'Leary); Ulster Elks 1 (E O'Leary) Ards 2 (C Brown, L McKee)

Day 5 extended reports

Railway Union 1 (J O'Halloran) Hermes/Monkstown 2 (R Carrigan, C Watkins)

Railway Union missed a big opportunity to end Hermes/Monkstown's perfect record as they put the champions to the pin of their collar at Park Avenue.

Although Rosie Carrigan put the visitors in front from a fifth-minute penalty corner, Julia O'Halloran's pot shot brought Railway level shortly afterwards and they saw three first-half corners go without conversion.

Hermes/Monkstown dinged the post in a high-quality encounter, while Grace McLoughlin took one off the line for Railway and Hermes/Monkstown keeper Liz Murphy was alert to deny Sinead Dooley at the other end.

Chloe Watkins put the visitors ahead from the spot after a quick breakaway yielded a penalty stroke opportunity, and a frantic finale saw both sides create plenty of chances, Railway's Maja Hadden firing the best of them over the bar.

Hermes/Monkstown stay top of the table after five wins from five, and face joint leaders Cork Harlequins at Rathdown in a vital clash next weekend.

Cork Harlequins 4 (Y O'Byrne, K Bateman, N Kerr, R Barry) Belfast Harlequins 2 (C Weir 2)

Cork Harlequins continue to match Hermes/Monkstown every step of the way as they comfortably kept their perfect record intact against their Belfast namesakes at Farmer's Cross.

Yvonne O'Byrne rewarded their early pressure with a penalty corner deflection in the eighth minute preceding a busy second quarter in which Quins built a 3-1 half-time lead.

Karen Bateman was on hand to finish from close range after Rebecca Barry's deflection wrong-footed Belfast Harlequins keeper Jade Lamont, before Claire Weir hit back for the Ulster girls with a corner rebound.

A similar scramble in front of the net at the other end saw Nicola Kerr pounce to re-establish a two-goal cushion, before Barry provided the game's highlight with a lethal reverse-stick strike to the bottom corner after being picked out by Cliodhna Sargent's searching through ball.

Weir calmly slotted a one-on-one opportunity with home keeper Emma Buckley at the start of the final quarter to give her side hope. But Cork Harlequins closed the game out in relative comfort and also handed a debut to recent Ireland call-up Roisin Upton, the Limerick native arriving as a two-time American national champion with the University of Connecticut.

Pembroke Wanderers 1 (E Horan) UCD 2 (E Russell, L Ewart)

UCD remain unbeaten and have emerged as the biggest threat to the top two, but were made to work hard for their fourth win in five outings by basement side Pembroke Wanderers.

A low-key first half yielded lots of UCD corners but no breakthrough, and Pembroke looked far more dangerous after the break with UCD keeper Clodagh Cassin needing to be sharp to deny Erica Markey's one-on-one chance.

Eanna Horan gave Pembroke a surprise lead from her side's first corner but then missed a sitter to make it 2-0, and UCD punished the hosts to end the quarter in front. Emma Russell capitalised on a turnover near the Pembroke 22 to round the goalkeeper and equalise, before Leah Ewart crashed home a powerful short corner shot.

That proved the end of the scoring and despite a much-improved performance, Pembroke are still looking for their first point of the campaign while UCD lie in third, two points off the top two. 

Pegasus 2 (S Beaney, H Grieve) Loreto 2 (S Evans, L O'Leary)

Pegasus' inconsistencies continue to deter their hopes of challenging for the EYHL title as they were fortunate to escape with a draw from newly-promoted Loreto.

The hosts took the lead in unusual circumstances, as Suzanne Beaney's pressing saw a loose ball around the Loreto backline headed goalwards. Goalkeeper Louisa Healy was content to leave it go for a long corner but it rebounded back into play off the post, and Beaney was quickest to react.

The pace of the game dropped thereafter with neither side threatening much, but it took another rearguard error to spark it into life. A slow ball in the Pegasus backline was picked off by Sarah Evans and she cooly finished to level for Loreto.

Loreto then went in front in somewhat controversial circumstances, as Lauren O'Leary's high ball across goal ricocheted into the goal off Michelle Harvey, making her return to the Pegs team after a 10-month injury absence and a couple of seasons playing in Belgium.

Pegs held their nerve though, and another defensive error gifted them a penalty corner just before the final whistle. With the game's final opportunity, Hannah Grieve found the bottom corner to rescue a share of the spoils.

The Belfast side are in fourth place but are five points adrift of UCD one place above them, having now gone three games without victory. Loreto drop to seventh but are well in touch in a congested mid-table.

Ulster Elks 1 (E O'Leary) Ards 2 (C Brown, L McKee)

Ards handed Ulster Elks their fourth defeat of the campaign and have moved clear of the relegation zone in what could prove to be a significant victory come the end of the campaign.

Both sides have struggled to find the net this term with only Pembroke scoring less, but Chloe Brown made no mistake from a 14th-minute corner to reward her side's bright opening at Jordanstown.

The game descended into a midfield battle for long periods thereafter until the Elks won a slew of penalty corners, but they couldn't find a way back into the game.

Lucy McKee punished their profligacy with a breakaway goal to give Ards some breathing space, all the more necessary after former Cork Harlequins and UCC player Emily O'Leary got a touch to Shirley McCay's searching ball into the circle to get the Elks back into it.

That set them up for a big final heave in search of an equaliser, but Ards held out and now move up to sixth following their second win of the campaign with the Elks remaining in eighth.

Irish Hockey Association media release



Irish Men's EY Hockey League Round Up



Banbridge stole a march on their EYHL rivals with a 2-0 success at Pembroke Wanderers as the rest of the top four all dropped points on Saturday.

The Co Down men brought some of the quality that helped them qualify for the last 16 of the EuroHockey League to bear as they dominated all four quarters against a Pembroke side shy of Alan Sothern's guile, with Matthew Bell's early corner goal bookended by a Johnny McKee strike late on.

Having seen their 21-game winning run ended by a draw against Three Rock Rovers last week, title holders Lisnagarvey again had to come from behind to rescue a 2-2 tie away to third-placed Cork Church of Ireland.

A pair of John Jermyn strikes, one a cracker from open play, cancelled out Andy Williamson's opener for 'Garvey at Garryduff, but James Lorimer equalised before half-time and that's how it stayed.

Monkstown had a day to forget against a resurgent Three Rock Rovers, crashing to a 3-0 home defeat. Ross Canning punished Lee Cole's mistimed tackle from the penalty spot in the opening half before Monkstown had two goals chalked off as well as seeing Gareth Watkins' penalty stroke saved by Jamie Carr in the Rovers goal.

'Town pressed for an equaliser but Kevin Mullins and Conor Empey picked them off on the break in the last quarter to secure a memorable success for a young Three Rock side.

Lisnagarvey are now tied with Bann on 11 points at the top ahead of their meeting next Sunday, with C of I and Monkstown a point further back while Rovers are in fifth on eight points in a more congested-looking top five.

Elsewhere, Railway Union's woes continued with a 4-3 reverse to newly-promoted UCD. Jeremy Duncan's double and efforts from Andrew Keane and Greg Chambers put the students 4-0 up before taking the foot off the pedal in the final five minutes, allowing Mark English's brace and one from Simon McKeever give Railway a brief but futile flicker of hope.

Basement side Instonians got off the mark as William Robinson rescued a 1-1 draw at Glenanne' his penalty corner strike cancelling out a similar effort from Olympian Shane O'Donoghue. The result does neither side many favours however, as they remain in the bottom two.

Men's EY Hockey League: Pembroke Wanderers 0 Banbridge 2 (M Bell, J McKee); Cork C of I 2 (J Jermyn 2) Lisnagarvey 2 (A Williamson, J Lorimer); Monkstown 0 Three Rock Rovers 3 (R Canning, K Mullins, C Empey); UCD 4 (J Duncan 2, A Keane, G Chambers) Railway Union 3 (M English 2, S McKeever); Instonians 1 (W Robinson) Glenanne 1 (S O'Donoghue).

Day five, extended reports

Pembroke Wanderers 0 Banbridge 2 (M Bell, J McKee)

Banbridge reproduced the form that saw them qualify for the last 16 of the EuroHockey League as they dominated Pembroke from start to finish to move into a share of the lead at the top of the table.

Their midfield overran a Pembroke side missing their Olympian Alan Sothern and Paddy Good, and got a reward at the end of the first quarter when Matthew Bell's drag flick beat Mark Ingram.

The Pembroke netminder was certainly the busier keeper and a number of interventions from him as well as his corner defence as Bann's high press yielded a plethora of opportunities.

The hosts had one breakout opportunity but a hopeful cross eluded Craig Wilson and with Mossy Elliott and Kirk Shimmins both spending time in the sin-bin, Bann pressed for an insurance goal which finally came through Johnny McKee's bash from the top of the circle in the 60th minute.

Bann are now level on 11 points at the summit with Lisnagarvey, nicely teeing up next Sunday's clash between the two at Comber Road. 

Cork C of I 2 (J Jermyn 2) Lisnagarvey 2 (A Williamson, J Lorimer)

Lisnagarvey came from behind to draw for the second week in succession as Cork C of I showed their title potential in a tense draw at Garryduff.

'Garvey had won 21 straight EYHL games until Three Rock Rovers held them to a 1-1 tie last week, and the champions again failed to take maximum points against a fired-up C of I.

Andy Williamson's strike gave the visitors a first-quarter lead but C of I talisman John Jermyn stepped up to turn the game on its head. The league's top scorer lashed in a trademark drag-flick before netting a goal of the season contender from play, his fifth and sixth strikes of the campaign.

James Lorimer tied it up again for Lisnagarvey just before the break however, and that's how it stayed with 'Garvey now sharing the lead with Bann and C of I a point further back in third.

Monkstown 0 Three Rock Rovers 3 (R Canning, K Mullins, C Empey)

Three Rock's late smash-and-grab raid consigned Monkstown to a disappointing first defeat of the campaign at Rathdown.

The youthful visitors went in front via the penalty spot as Ross Canning punished Lee Cole's mistimed tackle, but Monkstown took hold of the tie thereafter.

They saw two goals chalked off as Kyle Good crashed in a reverse from just outside the circle and Davy Carson's effort was ruled out for an earlier foot in the build-up. Gareth Watkins was then fouled by Jamie Carr for a penalty stroke opportunity but the Rovers netminder made amends by saving Watkins' effort.

The hosts poured forward in search of an equaliser as the second half wore on and Rovers caught them on the break, a pass from midfield finding Kevin Mullins all alone in the circle and he made no mistake.

Monkstown removed their goalkeeper in search of a late miracle but the gamble didn't pay off as Rovers countered and Conor Empey was able to finish into an empty net for his second goal in as many weeks.

UCD 4 (J Duncan 2, A Keane, G Chambers) Railway Union 3 (M English 2, S McKeever)

Newly-promoted UCD chalked up their second win of the campaign as Railway Union's woes continued at Belfield.

This victory was more comfortable than the scoreline suggested as the students built a four-goal lead before Railway staged a frantic comeback in the final five minutes.

Jeremy Duncan hit the baseline and eliminated the goalkeeper before flicking home for UCD's first, and their second came about from a similar source. This time it was Greg Chambers who got in behind the Railway defence and squared from the baseline for Andy Keane to finish.

Duncan finished off a one-two with David Nolan for a 3-0 half-time lead and Nolan then setup Cork native Chambers for the fourth.

Mark English's solo effort in a tight space in the circle sparked a Railway comeback with five minutes left as he bagged another and Simon McKeever scored to make UCD sweat, but they held on to take all three points.

Instonians 1 (W Robinson) Glenanne 1 (S O'Donoghue)

Instonians got off the mark in the EYHL but this draw did neither side many favours as they remain marooned in the bottom two.

Inst had the best chanced of the first half, Leo Mickelm palming away a William Robinson effort before Mark Irwin struck the bar with the Glenanne netminder beaten.

James Corry send John Wilson clear for a gilt-edged chance in the third quarter but he couldn't break the deadlock, and Glens struck somewhat against the run of play as their Olympian Shane O'Donoghue slung home a drag-flick on 48 minutes.

The hosts weren't to be denied a share of the spoils as Robinson flicked in a corner with three minutes to go, but they missed some late chances to win the game and Glens will be the happier side with a hard-earned point on the road.

Irish Hockey Association media release



Scottish National League delivers on goal scoring promise

Hillhead moved closer to a top four spot in the first division with a comfortable 3-0 win over third placed Edinburgh University in the cold of Old Anniesland.

The Glasgow side overcame the elements with grit and determination instilled by new coach Mark Ralph, but their cause was ably assisted by the defensive frailties of the students who donated the three goals that separated the teams.

The opener in 11 minutes was a classic example, the Edinburgh defence failed to clear the danger in their own circle, the loose ball fell to Craig Paterson and the New Zealander took his time to flick it past the goalkeeper.

Paul Crooks had the chance to double the tally at Hillhead`s first penalty corner but his shot only found the outside of the net. Soon after, Crooks had another chance - this time his effort went tantalisingly across the face of the goal.

Just before the interval the students put on the pressure and chances fell to Antonis Efthymiou and Jamie Wong but Hillhead goalkeeper Jamie Frail was equal to the task. At an overtime penalty corner George Adams shot seemed goal-bound but was deflected to safety by Hillhead`s Callum Duke.

Early in the second half and again the students` defence failed to clear their lines and Chris Wilson was left with the simple task of poking the ball into the net.

The third goal midway through the second half ended the game as a contest, this time the ball was donated to Duke, he squared it to Andy Maclaine who was left with the simple task of the rolling it into the empty net.

In a desperate attempt to get something out of the contest Edinburgh put the Glasgow side under some pressure, but it was not to be their day as several chances were spurned, although a Jack Henderson shot did cannon off the Hillhead post.

Results elsewhere have seen Grove Menzieshill leapfrog Edinburgh into third spot in the division after they defeated Gordonians 7-2 on Tayside.

Although the Dundonians did not have it all their own way in the first half they did turn round two up through Gavin Tomlinson from the spot and Jamie Golden.

However, the second half was one-way traffic; Ciaran Crawford scored a hat-trick and the other goals came from Albert Rowling and Adam Fallis following a telling pass by Golden.

Grange remain undefeated and in pole position after a comfortable 5-2 win over Edinburgh’s neighbours Watsonians. The game was over in the first half - Luke Cranney opened scoring, Cammie Fraser got a brace of penalty corner strikes and Frank Ryan completed the scoring with a clever deflection.

After the interval Fraser completed his hat-trick with a direct strike at another set piece, Watsonians got two back but the final result was never in doubt.

Bromac Kelburne held on to second spot with a 7-1 victory over PSL Clydesdale; Josh Cairns scored twice from set pieces while the others came from five other individual scorers.

Uddingston Riva finally moved up the table from the relegation zone after a 3-2 win over Western Wildcats, Mohammed Feeze scored twice in the second half from set pieces to secure the victory.

Scottish Hockey Union media release



No nonsense USIU-A Spartans shoot down Daystar Falcons at City Park

By BRIAN YONGA


USIU-A Spartans' Whitney Nyabuto dribbles past Daystar Falcons' Gertrude Bungei during their Kenya Hockey Union women's Premier League match on November 6, 2016 at City Park Stadium. USIU won 10-0. PHOTO | CHRIS OMOLLO |  NATION MEDIA GROUP

United States International University - Africa (USIU-A) Spartans on Sunday enhanced their chances of finishing second in the Kenya Hockey Union women’s Premier League after thrashing Daystar University Falcons 10-0 at City Park Stadium, Nairobi.

Kenya international Rhoda Nyambura sounded the boards four times to set her side on the path to an emphatic win in the battle of universities.

Sandra Vodoti then struck twice for the Thika Road-based side. Perez Esther, Sheila Ndaroh, Anne Mwikali and Maua Williams were also on target in the lop-sided encounter.

SPARTANS IN FOURTH PLACE

The win saw Spartans stay in fourth place in the table behind Amira, who had beaten Sliders 2-0 on Saturday. Both teams have 14 points with one match left to play this season, but Amira enjoy a better goal aggregate.

The duo trail second-placed Strathmore University Scorpions by three points. Scorpions hammered Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology 6-0 on Saturday. And Spartans coach Willis Okeyo was pleased with his side’s performance.

“We were brilliant today. We dominated possession, created numerous chances and scored some great goals. We want to finish on high this season and hopefully clinch second place,” Okeyo told Daily Nation Sport.

The defeat leaves Falcons rooted at the bottom of the league and in danger of ending the season without victory. Spartans exposed Falcons’ defensive frailties, leading 4-0 at the quarter mark and added two more before the half-time whistle.

Nyambura scored three of her goals in the first half, finishing off brilliant moves past Falcons keeper Esther Mary. While Okeyo had options on the bench, Falcons coach Moses Kagochi had only only 11 players, with no options on the bench.

“It has not been a good season for us, our players have not been consistent and this has contributed to our bad run,” lamented Kagochi. In an earlier women’s encounter, Vikings handed Kenyatta University (KU) Titans a 5-0 beating at the same venue.

Charity Miller and Susan Muchai scored twice each with Edel Barasa scoring the other to hand Vikings only their second win of the season.

In the men’s national league, Impala missed the chance to go top after they went down 3-2 to Multimeda University while Kabarak University beat visiting Dedan Kimathi University 1-0 in Kabarak.

Thika Rovers and Karate Axiom played out a goalless draw in another men’s second tier encounter.

Daily Nation



Match postponed as sprinkler stops working; Indian Oil beat RCF 7-4

Ravi Dhaliwal


North Central Railways’ players try to tackle a Punjab player (yellow) during their match in Jalandhar on Sunday. Tribune Photo

Jalandhar: One match had to be rescheduled due to electricity issues before the Punjab women edged out North Central Railways to register their second win in the 33rd All India Surjit Memorial hockey tournament here today.

The ball stopped rolling on Sunday with the sprinkler system failing to work following a faulty electricity connection.

This development took the sting out of the day’s proceedings with the harried organisers having to reschedule the day’s card.

In the women’s section, Haryana were scheduled to take on Central Railways in the day’s first match, which was to begin at 2 pm. However, even as the players were warming up, they were asked to wait and were later told that their match was rescheduled.

The organisers struggled with the wires in an attempt to get the sprinkler system to work. The matches commenced two hours after the scheduled time.

The Punjab women, who kick-started their campaign yesterday with a  6-1 win over RCF (Kapurthala), struggled to a 1-0 win today.

The way individuals play as a whole determines a team’s success. A hockey squad may have the greatest bunch of individual stars but if they do not play in a cohesive manner, the team will not be worth a dime.

This, in essence, sums up the mediocre performance dished out by Punjab as their international stars — Navneet Kaur, Ritu, Manpreet Kaur, Navpreet Kaur and Gagandeep Kaur — failed to jell as a unit.

After the splendid display they put up yesterday, they played a lacklustre game today. Starting as favourites, they were expected to coast home comfortably but they managed to score just one goal through a penalty corner. The winner was scored by Reet Kaur after her scorching drive sounded the board with a thud.

In a thrilling match in the men’s section, Indian Oil defeated Rail Coach Factory (Kapurthala) 7-4.

The Tribune



Penn State wins Big Ten field hockey tournament

Penn State raised a trophy on Sunday afternoon.

Stephen Pianovich


The Nittany Lion.  Rick Stewart/Getty Images

The Nittany Lions field hockey team held off Maryland 2-1 on Sunday to win the Big Ten Tournament in College Park, Md. It was also the 500th win for coach Charlene Morett-Curtiss.

The Nittany Lions scored the game-winning goal early in the second half, with sophomore Gini Bramley scoring the go-ahead goal with more than 26 minutes remaining. Bramley was named the tournament’s MVP.

Penn State is now 17-2 on the season with its conference-best seventh Big Ten Tournament title. The win also avenged a 5-4 loss to Maryland last month. The Nittany Lions will now head to the NCAA Tournament, which starts Saturday.

Land of 10



No. 7 Virginia tops No. 5 North Carolina for ACC title

Virginia Athletics


Virginia took down North Carolina for its first ACC title in program history. Virginia Athletics

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — The Virginia field hockey team (15-7, 3-3 ACC) defeated North Carolina (17-5, 3-3 ACC) 4-2 in the 2016 ACC Field Hockey Championship Game at Wake Forest’s Kentner Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

The title is the first in program history for Virginia, the conference’s automatic qualifier for the NCAA tournament. The sixth-seeded Cavaliers become the lowest-seeded team to win the tournament in the event’s history.

“It’s amazing to see their smiles and their tears of joy and you really see how much it means to them,” said Virginia head coach Michele Madison. "To see the hard work and sacrifice to build the belief, because it’s hard to have the belief when you’ve never done it before. They found it somewhere deep inside to believe everything was possible.”

After being held without a shot for over eight minutes early in the first half, freshman Erin Shanahan found the back of the cage to open the scoring. The fourth goal of the season for the freshman striker came off a corner.

With just over 12 minutes remaining before halftime, Gab Major grabbed a loose ball in the circle and fired it past sophomore Carrera Lucas  for her ninth of the year to equalize the game at 1-1.

Sophomore Izzy McDonough regained the lead for the Cavaliers four minutes later for her third of the season.

Anzel Viljoen, who did not score a goal during the regular season, scored her second of the tournament to extend the Cavalier lead early in the second half. The freshman inserted a corner to junior Tara Vittese at the top of the circle, slid towards the goal and knocked in the pass back from Vittese to push it to a 3-1 Virginia lead. 

Lauren Moyer brought the Tar Heels back within one with just under 10 minutes remaining. After North Carolina pulled goalkeeper Alex Halpin in favor of a kicking back, Moyer launched a shot from the top of the circle after a penalty corner and off of a Virginia defender into the goal. The score was her fourth of the tournament and 21st of the year.

Just over two minutes later, senior Lucy Hyams provided insurance for the Cavaliers when she scored on a pass from Vittese after a penalty corner to push the lead to 4-2.

Lucas made six saves in the win, while Halpin stopped three for the Tar Heels.

Virginia scored a tournament-record 13 goals over three games played, surpassing the previous record of 10.

Senior Caleigh Foust was named tournament MVP after scoring three goals, including the game winners against Boston College and Wake Forest.

The NCAA selection show will stream live online on NCAA.com on Sunday at 10 p.m. ET. This will be the Cavaliers’ 21st appearance in the NCAA tournament and their ninth in head coach Michele Madison’s 11 seasons.

2016 ACC Field Hockey All-Tournament Team

    Sammi Steele, Duke
    Margaux Paolino, Duke
    Lauren Moyer, North Carolina
    Ashley Hoffman, North Carolina
    Julia Young, North Carolina
    Caleigh Foust, Virginia (MVP)
    Lucy Hyams, Virginia
    Dominique van Slooten, Virginia
    Tara Vittese, Virginia
    Jule Grashoff, Wake Forest
    Nicola Pluta, Wake Forest

NCAA



UVa field hockey wins first ACC title


The `Virginia field hockey team defeated North Carolina, 4-2, in the 2016 ACC Field Hockey Championship game at Wake Forest's Kenner Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, on Sunday. Courtesy Virginia Athletics

The Virginia field hockey team (15-7, 3-3 ACC) defeated North Carolina (17-5, 3-3 ACC), 4-2, in the 2016 ACC Field Hockey Championship game at Wake Forest’s Kentner Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, on Sunday.

The title is the first in program history for Virginia, the conference’s automatic qualifier for the NCAA Tournament. The sixth-seeded Cavaliers become the lowest-seeded team to win the tournament in the event’s history.

Senior Caleigh Foust was named tournament MVP after scoring three goals, including the game winners against Boston College and Wake Forest.

“It’s amazing to see their smiles and their tears of joy and you really see how much it means to them,” said Virginia head coach Michele Madison. “To see the hard work and sacrifice to build the belief, because it’s hard to have the belief when you’ve never done it before. They found it somewhere deep inside to believe everything was possible.”

After being held without a shot for over eight minutes early in the first half, freshman Erin Shanahan found the back of the cage to open the scoring. The fourth goal of the season for the freshman striker came off a corner.

With just over 12 minutes remaining before halftime, Gab Major grabbed a loose ball in the circle and fired it past sophomore Carrera Lucas for her ninth of the year to equalize the game at 1-1.

Sophomore Izzy McDonough regained the lead for the Cavaliers four minutes later for her third of the season.

Anzel Viljoen, who did not score a goal during the regular season, scored her second of the tournament to extend the Cavalier lead early in the second half. The freshman inserted a corner to junior Tara Vittese at the top of the circle, slid towards the goal and knocked in the pass back from Vittese to push it to a 3-1 Virginia lead.  

Lauren Moyer brought the Tar Heels back within one with just under 10 minutes remaining. After North Carolina pulled goalkeeper Alex Halpin in favor of a kicking back, Moyer launched a shot from the top of the circle after a penalty corner and off of a Virginia defender into the goal. The score was her fourth of the tournament and 21st of the year.

Just over two minutes later, senior Lucy Hyams provided insurance for the Cavaliers when she scored on a pass from Vittese after a penalty corner to push the lead to 4-2.

Lucas made six saves in the win, while Halpin stopped three for the Tar Heels.

Virginia scored a tournament-record 13 goals over three games played, surpassing the previous record of 10.

Daily Progress



Hockeyroos Captain Madonna Blyth to retire after 342 games

Holly MacNeil



(Perth, WA) - Hockeyroos captain Madonna Blyth has made the decision to retire following a stellar career which saw her play 342 games for the women’s national hockey team concluding at the 2016 Rio Olympic quarter finals.

After making her debut for the Hockeyroos in 2004, Blyth became the most capped Australian player of all time at the 2015 World League semi-final in Belgium in the first game of the tournament against Poland, over-taking previous record holder Nikki Hudson who retired at 303 caps.

Throughout her career, Blyth showed the strength and steely determination required of a leader and in 2009 was made the captain of the Hockeyroos, a position which she has held right through until her retirement.

As captain, Blyth led her team to a double Commonwealth Games gold including scoring the winning goal in the shootout against England at Glasgow 2014, World Cup silver, Champions Trophy silver and World League silver.

Talking about her memories of the sport, Blyth said: “As an athlete, to be able to call yourself an Olympian is what you strive for but to be a three time Olympian is something I will always be proud of. One moment that stands out for me personally is scoring the winning shootout to secure gold for us at the Commonwealth Games in 2014.

“There are a couple of girls who I played alongside for many, many years and I would like to mention Teneal Attard, Casey Sablowski, and Rach Lynch who made the journey even more enjoyable.”

Hockeyroo veteran Blyth, who first began playing hockey at the age of five thanks to the influence of her hockey playing mother, went on be named in the World All Stars Team on three occasions in 2007, 2009 and 2010.

Triple Olympian Blyth, said of her retirement: “After 12 years it’s hard to walk away from my life as a Hockeyroo but I believe physically and mentally it is the right time. I have taken a lot of time to reach this decision and it has not been an easy one.  To do what it takes to be a Hockeyroo takes a great amount of dedication and commitment and I feel as though I wouldn’t be able to give what is required if I chose to play on.

“I would like to say thank you to my mum and dad who have always supported my single mindedness to follow this path and who have spent countless hours and dollars to get me to wherever I needed. My brother Matt and sister Al have always been my biggest supporters and have been almost as passionate as myself about the Hockeyroos- thank you.  As athletes, we can often be tired, cranky or stressed so I want to say thanks to Em for putting up with me and helping turn me into a better player.

“Des King has been my coach for over 15 years and I want to say thanks you for everything he has done and the belief he has always shown in me.”

Commenting on Madonna’s career, Hockeyroos interim head coach Jason Duff said: “Madonna has had a fantastic career, and she definitely deserves to be the highest capped Hockeyroos player. You can’t play for that long at an international level without having the qualities that Madonna has, which is a fierce determination to win and succeed, and to continually improve.

“Her ability to read the play has been better than any player throughout the era that I’ve seen for Australia – she knows when to go, when to leave a player, when to meet a contest, when to release the ball and when to eliminate; it’s no surprise to me that she has played 342 games.

“Donny has been a natural leader, presenting herself extremely well both within the group and in the public arena. She has truly honoured the position of captain, which she held for seven years, and I think that shows she was a remarkable leader.”

Blyth leaves the Hockeyroos with 342 career caps and 70 international goals, and will be honoured at the Hockey Australia Annual Awards Night which takes place in Perth tonight. 

MADONNA BLYTH CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Debut Game: November 6, 2004 Australia 0 – 1 Germany at the Champions Trophy in Argentina

Final Game: August 16, 2016 Australia 2 - 4 New Zealand at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games

2004 – Debuts for the Hockeyroos in game one of the Champions Trophy in Argentina against Germany

2005 – Won her first silver medal for the Hockeyroos at a home Champions Trophy in Canberra

2006 - Won her first Commonwealth Games at a home games in Melbourne, and first World Cup silver

2008 – Took part in her first Olympic Games at the 2008 Beijing Olympics with the Hockeyroos finishing in fifth place

2009 – Named as captain of the Hockeyroos, and won silver in the Champions Trophy in Sydney

2010 – Commonwealth Games Gold in New Dehli, and took part in her second World Cup

2012 – Went to her second Olympics and first as captain for the London Games where the Hockeyroos finished fifth

2013 – Silver at the World League Final in Argentina

2014 – Scored the winning goal in a shoot-out with ENG at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games taking out her third Commonwealth Games Gold; Silver in the World Cup in the Hague

2016 – Competed in her third Olympics at the Rio Games where the Hockeyroos finished in sixth position

Hockey Australia media release



How Sardar Singh’s hockey skills can win the battle over his mind

Sundeep Misra


File photo of Sardar Singh. Getty Images

The humidity at the Kuantan Hockey Stadium was close to 88 percent. Sardar Singh, clutching his man of the match trophy, was replying to a few questions from a Malaysian TV network. Even though the match had been over some 45 minutes back, sweat was pouring down his body, his blue India shirt stuck to his chiseled frame. Two quick answers and Sardar ran back for the team picture with the trophy. Even though his teammates tried to push him to the front, the former Indian captain politely refused, preferring to stand at the back. In some team pictures, even during the Rio Olympics, Sardar was usually hidden behind a few players. It’s a change of character. Of course, Sardar was never one to show much emotion, but this change signifies a shift in personality.

Watching him along with countless millions, in the stadium and on TV, was Terry Walsh, his former coach and now Technical Director, Malaysia. “The change is visible,” observed Walsh. “All the stuff that he had gone through in the last six months would have an effect on him. He’s human after all.”

It’s not difficult to raise an eyebrow as to why the focus was on Sardar after India won the Asian Champions Trophy beating Pakistan and he won the player-of-the-match trophy in the final. “Exactly,” says Walsh. “Everything looks fine but a lot of stuff that players go through just gets papered over. And it’s not just Sardar. Even Sreejesh will feel the effects of captaincy. Remember, the expectations are huge and we sometimes sitting on the outside don’t realise it.”

It’s hard not to be cynical about yourself when you are going through a sexual harassment case; have lost captaincy for the Olympics; are no longer a central midfield creator but a forward, expected to score goals in the Olympics; and no more the spokesperson for the team. In our environment, when Sardar walks into a gathering or a hotel lobby, it’s not too difficult to assess what people must be whispering amongst themselves. It takes time to emerge from it. The man or the player in question also takes a battering. Before going to Kuantan, Sardar only had one wish. “I need to be supremely fit,” he said. “I want to play. That’s the only thing I know and understand. The rest I have to deal with.”

In the matches before the semis against Korea and the final against Pakistan, Sardar looked like a shadow of his past. He seemed slow, passes going off the zone, the fall back in defending exposing him against some faster oppositions. And then in the group match against Malaysia, Roelant Oltmans put him in a defending role, virtually playing right back. But with his skills, not many players approach Sardar, afraid of getting beaten on the dribble, so space opened up for the former Indian captain and he played with some measure of confidence till the semis and the final happened.

“The expectation from him is huge,” explains Terry. “Everybody thinks he will keep playing at a high level. But that’s not possible. Even the media is quick in being critical if the player concerned is Sardar; also because he has been performing. But that takes a major toll. Without the captaincy, he should play without any burdens.”

In the field, when on a song, Sardar appears unburdened. He is fluid, running past opponents as if they are whiffs of smoke, gliding past out-stretched sticks, his legendary vision picking up players on either flanks and the dribble that makes the ball seem like a puck on ice.

“We sometimes seem to forget that Sardar has been playing for more than a decade,” says Oltmans, India’s High-Performance Director who will be the new National Chief Coach from January 2017 on a new four-year contract. “His has been an extraordinary journey. Do you think we would have won the Asian Champions Trophy without that equaliser that he created in the semifinal? That was a moment of sheer magic.”

In the semifinal, India took the lead through a Talwinder Singh strike in the 15th minute but the Koreans came back strongly through Seo In-Woo in the 21st minute and then Yang Ji-Hun gave them the lead off a stroke in the 53rd. With just seven minutes left in the match, it seemed that Korea’s defence would hold out. But with five minutes left, Sardar who had moved up on the left flank, surprisingly entered the Korean striking circle, dribbled past three Koreans, like running past inert statutes, and ensured that his pass to Ramandeep got the equaliser for the match to go to a shoot-out. Sardar was the first to take the shoot-out and unlike most, did a deft dribble to the left and a back hand tap saw the ball in goal.

“I do understand what he has gone through,” says Oltmans. “But as a coach I know how to handle the situation. I speak to the players individually and I also speak to him. We have to understand he is not the same in age. And that is one reason why I am reducing his time on the field so he is more effective. He plays around six minutes per quarter. And that could be shorter if the match is too intense.”

Oltmans says he normally reads in the media if something comes up about Sardar’s sexual harassment case. “Otherwise, I deal with the players on what is happening. Keep them in the present and that they remain focused.”

Anuradha Solanki, Sports Authority of India’s junior scientific officer, a sports psychologist in normal terms, for the last 23 years believes it is up to the player to ask for help. “Yes, you can sometimes see the sign that events outside hockey may have affected him and sometimes they don’t accept that. But if the team believes and the coach thinks that sitting with a psychologist will help a player get past certain hurdles in his mind, then, of course, he should ask for help.”

Anuradha thinks most players don’t accept changes happening in the way they are perceived in society at large. “His positive self-image may have got a setback, in the way Sardar looks at himself,” says Anuradha. “He comes from a humble background and sometimes such players go into their shells. And performance does get affected. It’s completely up to the coach of the team to be able to get into his head and the fact that he needs a little help in throwing off some baggage.”

Sardar’s performance at the Rio Olympics definitely dipped. “It’s very difficult to change your position all of a sudden,” says Terry. “But I admire Oltmans as it was a tough decision.”

But the former Indian coach says it does affect a player and that’s when a psychologist can have a great effect. “Everyone has their perception,” says Terry. “But after all these years, Sardar must have expectations from himself. Changing a player from right midfield to left midfield has substantial repercussions. And he was playing as a forward.”

Oltmans is confident about Sardar as a player. “I think he is eager to perform,” the Dutchman says. “But, yes, we can’t predict the future as such for any player. Did anyone predict Rooney would struggle all of a sudden and that Ronaldo would also find it difficult to score goals?”

Walking back to the dressing room after the Champions Trophy win, Sardar says he is looking forward to playing for at least two years. “I don’t think too much anymore,” he says. “There will be bad and good days. I have to be fit and at the moment if I can contribute to the team, that would be great. I am not looking beyond the 2018 World Cup.”

More than the skills here, it’s the thermodynamics of the mind that Sardar battles. Or as Terry says, “Keep him relaxed, allow him to play the game.” Maybe here too, Sardar’s hockey which is painless and his skills that still mesmerise, will win the battle over his mind.

Firstpost



PAHF announce Technical Officials for 2017 Pan American Cups


2017 Pan American Cup    logo

The Pan American Hockey Federation has announced the Officials for the 2017 Pan American Cups to be held in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA, in August 2017.

MEN

Tournament Director: Paula PARKS

CAN

Assistant Tournament Director: Luis Cesar ALEMAN

ARG

Technical Official: Thiago DE MATTOS

BRA

Umpires Managers: Ged CURRAN

SCO

Edmundo SALADINO

ARG

Medical Officer:

to be announced

 

Communications Officers:

to be announced

 
 

to be announced

 

Judges: Mike LIPKA

USA

Juan Manuel PEREZ LEON

PER

Ariel WALLACE

TTO

Neutral Umpires: Peter WRIGHT

RSA

Nazmi KAMARUDIN

MAS

Umpires: Jonathan ALTAMIRANO RODRIGUEZ

MEX

Diego BARBAS

ARG

Matias BARBOSA

CHI

Kevin GEORGE

TTO

Oliver HOCK

BRA

Tyler KLENK

CAN

Manuel SIERRA CENTENO

VEN

Gus SOTERIADES

USA

PAHF Competition Coordinator: Laura MACCHIOTTI

PAHF

The men's competition will feature 8 countries, namely Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Mexico, Trinidad & Tobago, USA and Venezuela. First reserve is Uruguay.

WOMEN

Tournament Director: Paula PARKS

CAN

Assistant Tournament Director: Luis Cesar ALEMAN

ARG

Technical Official: Lurah HESS

USA

Umpires Managers: Louise KNIPE

ENG

Cinthia MELLI

ARG

Medical Officer:

to be announced

 

Communications Officers:

to be announced

 
 

to be announced

 

Judges: Nataki AKII BUA

TTO

Julieta PALACIOS

ARG

Katherina PEREZ SANTIAGO

PUR

Neutral Umpires: Fanneke ALKEMADE

NED

Junko WAGATSUMA

JPN

Umpires: Cara BRIGGS

BAR

Camila CABARGAS

CHI

Diana FUENTES CASTELO

MEX

Maggie GIDDENS

USA

Tracey LEE

TTO

Natalia LODEIRO

URU

Mariana REYDO

ARG

Lelia SACRE

CAN

PAHF Competition Coordinator: Laura MACCHIOTTI

PAHF

The women's competition will feature 8 countries, namely Argentina, Barbados, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Mexico, Uruguay and USA. First reserve is Peru.

The Pan American Cups are qualifiers for the World Cups, with the two winners in Lancaster earning an automatic berth for the 2018 World Cups in India (men) and England (women).

Pan American Hockey Federation media release

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