News for 14 January 2017
All the news for Saturday 14 January 2016
Scotland women draw with Spain in Valencia
Scotland senior women put in an impressive performance and drew their final test match against Spain 0-0 in Valencia.
Spain were first to threaten when they won an early corner but the attack was well defended by the Scots, and the danger was palmed away by goalkeeper Lucy Camlin.
The game was end-to-end. Three attacks were stopped on the Scottish baseline, before the visitors flooded forward down the other end to win Scotland’s first corner of the game. An inventive set-piece prompted a good save from the Spanish goalkeeper to keep the score at 0-0. Then some excellent play by Kaz Cuthbert and Fiona Bruce down the left won Scotland’s second corner. A sensational piece of skill from Sarah Robertson on the reverse fashioned Scotland an opportunity but it was well blocked by the Spanish rear guard on the back post.
Scotland came close a short time later through another corner when Sarah Robertson rattled the post. Up the other end of the pitch and a fast break from Spain found Camlin facing a one-on-one but a great save denied the hosts, keeping the score 0-0 at the end of the opening quarter.
It was a war of attrition in the second quarter with lots of play in the middle of the pitch. Scotland went a player down and were forced to dig deep and defend – they survived very well. Back at full strength and Amy Costello thought she’d given her side the lead but her excellent effort was saved on the line to deny Scotland the lead before half time. Katie Robertson also came close but her powerful strike from the top of the D zipped narrowly wide.
Two minutes into the second half and Spain had the ball in the Scotland net but it was chopped off for dangerous play. Then with Spain a player down, Becky Ward made the most of the player advantage when she won the ball in midfield and found Fiona Burnet, who came close with a reverse stick attempt.
With the third quarter coming to a close an opportunity for Spain was well saved by Camlin in the Scotland goal.
Spain got off to another fast start in the fourth by winning a corner. The following set-piece was met by Camlin making a diving save to her right to keep the score at 0-0.
Moments later and some brilliant resistance from Camlin and Costello saw the duo forming a wall that the Spanish couldn't penetrate.
Then just as the game came to close, Scotland’s Robyn Collins sent Burnet and Becky Merchant racing through two-on-one with just the goalkeeper to beat but the umpire blew a whistle when there was an advantage. It ended 0-0; a great game to watch chances for both sides, with Scotland finishing off a good series of tests against a very Spanish side ahead of World League 2.
Scotland Women’s Head Coach, Gordon Shepherd, said: “It was a very good performance for the full game – credit to the players for taking on board our comments and taking it out onto the pitch. It was a very even game and a draw was a fair result.
“I’m pleased by the effort of the players and I’m looking forward to training over the next week as we prepare for World League 2.”
Scottish Hockey Union media release
Day 1 at EuroHockey Indoor Junior Championships, Men, Lisbon, Portugal
Poland prove dominant in their opening game v Portugal (Frank Uijlenbroek (c))
As expected the opening day of the EuroHockey Indoor Junior Championships in Lisbon lived up to expectations with some really excellent skills on display here in Lisbon.
Match 1: Belarus 6-6 Croatia
The first day of the Eurohockey Junior Indoor Championship, Men – Lisbon 2017 kicked of with an amazing game. An incredible comeback from Belarus who were 4-0 down to deny Croatia a perfect start to the Tournament.
Dominant and well organized, that’s the way Croatia started the game against Belarus. Four goals without response and the feeling was that the game was all but ‘over’. However, Belarus raised from the ashes and managed an excellent recovery scoring three goals in a row. An avalanche of goals started with both teams scoring one after the other. With 6-4 on the board the Belarus show started, and Croatia were caught napping allowing Belarus to level the score just before the final whistle.
In the second match, Switzerland started very defensively, playing on the errors of Austria and taking advantage of a short corner to score the first goal of the game.
Austria changed tactics and pushed forward with a full attack. The strategy proved to be the right one and the Austrians won the turnover and firmly grabbed the advantage until the end. The final result, 3-2 for Austria, justifies the quality of a defending Champion.
Russia and Czech Republic started the game slowly, both testing the opposition and looking for the channels and a breakthrough: during the first ten minutes the teams played with patience, waiting for the opponent’s error. The first goal scored came through the Czech No. 17 Lukas Plochy.
After a goal in the last second of the first half, the Russians galvanised and came in strong at the beginning of the second half, scoring again. Czechs responded and almost immediately Russia made it 3-2 which remained until the final moments of the game when, through a penalty stroke, the Czechs got the tie in the final moment of the game, and left delighted to claim a draw against a strong Russian side.
Things did not go well for the home team in it’s debut at the EuroHockey Lisbon 2017. Portugal started very nervously, whilst the Swiss team was very strong and focused.
Portugal conceded too many short-corners and Poland took their chances scoring the first goal through short-corner. Patrick Pawlak the Polish captain converted a second corner to double the score. Long before the break, Portugal conceded two more goals in a clear lack of concentration by the young Portuguese players. The second half of the match brought the first goal of Portugal in the competition as they settled into the pace of the game. Carlos Almeida converted a well designed short corner. The goal did not detract from Poland’s game plan and Krystian Sudol responded with another goal. Portugal managed to score again, but Poland was the stronger team and the final score was 6-2, a fair result for the game.
Croatia certainly warranted their slot in the Championship division, with a comprehensive win over Switzerland. The win puts them on 4 points with a real chance of making the semi-final, depending on the outcome of their game v Austria tomorrow!
Croatia was clear with their intentions to win and came out strong with Lucas Bachmann opening the scorer. Five minutes before half-time, the Croats scored their second, but this time the national team of Switzerland did not take too much time to respond with a goal from Jonathan Appel. With two more goals and a lot of missed opportunities, the Croats sealed the deal with a final result of 4-2.
The current champions were put under huge pressure by a very determined Belarus. An amazing save off the line in overtime meant a win for Belarus and like Croatia they end the day on 4 points. Austria need a win and nothing less v Croatia in the morning if they are to progress here in Lisbon.
The game had a very exciting and emotive start, with Austria putting themselves in the front but only for a few seconds, as Belarusian responded immediately. Austria managed to score two goals in a row and tried to hold on to that advantage using all their defensive strengths.
When everything looked set for an Austrian victory, Belarus came back strongly and led 5-3.
The Austrians gave their all, and with big effort set the score in 5-4, putting the Belarussian defence under huge pressure, which they soaked up to claim the victory.
Poland have proved themselves to be the team to beat here in Lisbon. A attacking side with excellent set pieces dominated this game v Russia. A 6point top of the table finish overnight should see them into the semi-finals, will they complete a hat-trick of wins? We shall see in the morning as they face Czech Republic.
Poland exploded onto the court with 2 clear objectives: score fast and secure the match. Their plan was flawless. With an early goal, everything was easier for the Polish team that extended the advantage after the half-time. With a two goal lead, Poland controlled the game in the second half, conceding a goal and scoring another.
Game 8 saw an incredibly lively finish to the day here in Lisbon. 6 goals in the first 15 minutes and it was ‘game on’ for both sides. Czech were clinical with their chances, but Portugal competed well and were certainly more composed than in their first game of the day.
Czech Republic started well with a goal in the first minute, bringing the game to the Portuguese who responded with three goals in three minutes.
Nonetheless, the home team completely lost its focus and a consecutive set of defensive mistakes allowed the Czechs to tie the game right before half-time.
In the second half, the Czech Republic had a brilliant start and scored two goals. Czech Republic, more focused and efficient, increased the difference and finished the game 7-4.
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EuroHockey media release
Peerless Telkom Orange demolish Heartland to storm Africa of Club Championship Cup final
By BRIAN YONGA
Telkom Orange players applaud their fans after their semi-final match against Heartland of Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Club Championship at City Park Stadium on January 13, 2017. Orange won won 7-0. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU | NATION MEDIA GROUP
Champions Telkom Orange on Friday cruised into the final of the Africa Cup of Club Championship after thrashing Nigeria's Heartland 7-0 at the City Park Stadium.
A hat-trick from veteran striker Jackline Mwangi set up the eight-time champions on their way to a comfortable win in the lop-sided encounter. Lilian Aura grabbed a brace with Betsy Ommala and Audrey Omaido also getting on the scoresheet.
Orange are now one win away from winning Africa's elite hockey club title for a record ninth time, and their fifth in a row.
The 19-time national women's league champions will now take on the winner of the semi-final between Ghana Revenue Authority and Kada Queens (Nigeria), which was due to played later Friday.
Orange coach Jos Openda is confident his team will win Sunday's final as they chase more history in the competition.
"We were totally dominant from the onset and I am pleased we did not concede. The ladies are fired up to finish the job on Sunday and we will not rest until we retain the title," Openda told Saturday Nation Sport.
Openda started with the three-pronged attack with Maureen Okumu, Omaido and Mwangi upfront. The trio combined to create Orange's first chance just six minutes into the match under the scorching sun at City Park.
Okumu won her team a short corner but Mwangi was unable to score from Omaido's dragged shot.
Orange were awarded a penalty flick two minutes later after Okumu was fouled as she was just about to score. However, Ommala sent the penalty wide.
Orange wasted two more short corners before they eventually went ahead in the 20th minute after Mwangi finished off Omaido's corner.
Two minutes later, Okumu weaved into the Heartland defence and set up Omaido, who fired past Heartland keeper Patricia Uzuegbu.
A sweeping move in the 25th minute saw Ommala beat two players before she passed to Mwangi, who beat the onrushing Uzuegbu.
Mwangi, who proved to be a menace in the Nigerian defence, almost grabbed a hat-trick at the half-hour mark but her shot hit the post as the visitors survived.
The half ended with Heartland failing to register any goal scoring chance with Orange keeper Cynthia Onyango a mere spectator.
Mwangi got her third of the match two minutes after the restart after following up on Omaido's saved shot.
Heartland, who have won the title twice, were subdued in the second half offering little in attack.
Three more goals followed before the final whistle including a beauty from Aura with the Kenya international dribbling past three Heartland players before firing past Uzuegbu.
Earlier, Sliders secured seventh place after they beat Uganda's Wananchi 3-0 in a seeding match. Gilly Okumu scored a brace with Lorraine Nondi adding the other to give the 1999 champions victory. Wananchi finished eighth.
Dar Ladies from Tanzania edged out Weatherhead 1-0 to finish in ninth place as the Ugandans ended the tourney in last place.
The competition ends Sunday.
Daily Nation
Telkom Orange close to African title
By Elizabeth Mburugu
Orange Telkom congratulates each other after scoring against Nigeria Kada Queens when they played Africa Cup Championship at City Park yesterda, on 07/01/2017 PHOTO: JENIPHER WACHIE
Continental champions Telkom Orange are one match away from retaining their hockey Africa Cup for Club Championships women’s title.
The African queens trounced former titleholders Heartland of Nigeria 7-0 in a lopsided semi-finals tie played yesterday at City Park Stadium.
Veteran striker Jackline Mwangi once again starred for Orange netting a hat-trick. International Lilian Aura got his name on the score sheet with a brace while Audrey Omaido and Betsy Ommala scored one goal each for the champions.
Orange coach Jos Openda said he was impressed with what his charges had achieved so far but wants them to remain focused so they can complete the job. "We dominated today’s match but that doesn’t mean that we are safe, our work is not done yet and until we have defended our title the fight is still on,” Openda said.
Openda went for a strong attack starting veteran Mwangi, Omaido, Maureen Okumu who combined well who pressed deeper into Heartland’s territory. Okumu won her team a penalty corner in the sixth minute but Mwangi was unable to score from Omaido’s dragged shot.
Orange were awarded a penalty two minutes later after a foul on Okumu but Ommala sent the ball wide denying her side an early goal. Orange squandered two more short corners before they eventually got it right in the 20th minute when Mwangi converted a short corner.
Two minutes later, Okumu outwitted Heartland defence to set up Omaido who blasted past Heartland goalkeeper Patricia Uzuegbu. Ommala beat two players Heartland players in 25th before she passed to Mwangi, who beat the onrushing Uzuegbu.
Mwangi could have sealed a hat-trick at the half-hour mark but her shot hit the side bar.
The first half ended with the eight-time champions holding on to a 3-0 lead and goalkeeper Cynthia Akinyi untested.
On resumption, Mwangi slotted in her third in the in the 37th minute to make it 4-0. Ommala redeemed herself in the 45th minute while Aura scored her first and second in the 64th and 69th minutes to give her side a well deserved victory. Orange will play the winner of the tie between Ghana Revenue Authority and Nigeria's Kada Queens.
Kenya’s second representative Sliders beat Wananchi of Uganda 3-0 to finish a distant seventh. Gilly Okumu scored twice while Lorraine Nondi hit the board once for the former holders. Sliders, who won the continental gong on their first appearance in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe failed to shine finishing fourth in group A.
The Standard Online
Keen to progress
Butali, Kenya Police are all eyeing final spot
By Elizabeth Mburugu 
Africa Cup Championship at City Park. Kenya Butali Sugar Zack Aura(l) with the ball as Niger Fliger Manman give chase when they played Africa Cup Championship at City Park. ON 11/01/2017 PHOTO; JENIPHER WACHIE
Hosts Butali Sugar Warriors and Kenya Police will be seeking a Kenyan affair in the final of the hockey Africa Cup for Club Championships when they play their respective semi-final matches this evening at City Park. The home boys have a chance to ensure that Africa's coveted men's trophy remains here by winning their semis ties and securing an all-Kenyan final.
The two sides will also be out to end Egyptian dominance of Africa's men's club hockey. Since the inception of the games in 1988 only Kenya's disbanded Armed Forces snatched the gong in 1998 while all other editions were won by Egypt clubs. Since then the Kenyan men have failed to make a mark often settling for bronze.
Butali lock horns with defending champions Eastern Company of Egypt at 5.15pm in the first semis encounter, before Police wrestle Ghana Police at 7.30pm. Police and Butali avoided an early confrontation after finishing second in pool A and B respectively.
This edition has been very competitive with a mix of upsets and surprises. The high level of the competition also claimed the scalp of 23-time winners Sharkia, who failed to reach the semis. It will be the first time in 26 years that the Egyptian club will not be in the final.
Butali, who shook off a slow start to their campaign to seal a semi-finals berth will have to be at their best so as to down Eastern Company who are hopeful of retaining their trophy. They will be banking on services of Zack Aura, Emmanuel Simiyu, Frank Wanangwe and Barnabas Odhiambo.
Butali stand-in coach Meshack Senge wants his charges to go for early goals so as to destabilise their opponents' game plan. "Egyptians are good dribblers and lethal in short corners. If we ensure that they don't enjoy the two aspects and also utilize our chances then we can surely advance," Senge said.
The second semi-final will see Kenya Police play against Ghana Police. The law enforcers are both targeting their maiden crown. Kenya Police captain Brian Saina said that they will have to be at their best and read the opponent's game.
"We will have to watch their pace and avoid any lapses in defence because the game might just be decided by one chance."
The Standard Online
Club Championships showcase African hockey at its best
Hockey fans in Kenya are enjoying a feast of hockey as the Africa Cup for Club Champions (ACCC) showcases the fast, fluid and inventive style of play that epitomises hockey on the African continent.
The ACCC is a prestigious tournament for top clubs across the African continent. Originally scheduled to take place in 2016 in Zimbabwe, the latest edition of the competition is now taking place in Kenya, with the competition running from 7-15 January.
The Africa Hockey Federation (AfHF) prevailed upon Kenya to host the event after the Hockey Association of Zimbabwe withdrew. Kenya has hosted the event twice before, in 2007 and 2009, and Kenya Hockey Union chairman Nashon Randiek was pleased to accept the challenge, not least because it meant Kenya’s club sides would have less distance to travel to compete.
“In the past, some of our clubs have found it hard to participate in this competition but it will now be on home turf meaning we shall have full representation,” he said.
The ACCC has a history going back to 1988 when Sharkia of Egypt hosted and won the inaugural competition. Since then, the event has run every year, except 2001. Now in its 28th year, Sharkia have won it 22 times.
The women’s event started eight years later in 1996, so this is the 20th edition. Orange of Kenya have been the dominant force in the women’s competition, winning the trophy eight times, including the past four editions.
The event attracts teams from across Africa, with nine men and 10 women’s teams participating in this edition. Last year Telkom Orange from Kenya won the women's event while Eastern Company from Egypt won the men’s.
Kenya’s other contenders in the women's section are Sliders, who won the title back in 1999 but haven’t fielded a team for seven years. The team, led by coach Felix Okoth, is hoping to return to action in a blaze of glory.
“We have been in camp for the last 15 days. The team is hungry and fired up to go,” Okoth told Kenyan newspaper, Nation Sport. But Sliders will have to be on top of their game as they find themselves in a tough pool that also contains Orange, Sharkia and Kada Queens (Elrufai).
Competition got underway on Saturday 7 January at the City Park Stadium in Nairobi as the Ghana Police men’s team and Eastern Company both got off to winning ways in their opening matches.
The Police team put 11 goals past Wananchi of Uganda, while debutant side Weatherhead lost heavily to Eastern Company.
Meanwhile, in the women’s competition, Telkom Orange opened their account with a strong performance against Kada Queens of Nigeria. The Kenyan team coach, Jos Openda, said he was pleased with his team’s start to the competition but warned rivals: “The first game is usually a learning curve and we need to work on our defence because the goals we conceded were too soft.”
The Trophy is named after Egyptian Gamal Shiraz of Blessed Memory. He was the former President of the AfHF. The current president of the AfHF, Seif Ahmed, said: “This ACCC is the heart of the AfHF and the competition that showcases the best of our budding talents. Its fierce, it is competitive and the adrenaline levels are very high”.
The men’s teams contesting the title are: Sharkia Club and defending champions Eastern Company Club both from Egypt; Exchequers Bank of Ghana; Ghana Police; Niger Flickers from Nigeria; the two Kenyan teams, Butali Warriors and last year’s runners-up, Kenya Police; plus two teams from Uganda, Wanaichi men's team and Weatherhead men's team.
The women’s teams contesting the title are: Sharkia Club from Egypt; the Ghana Revenue Authority; Ghana Police; Nigeria’s representatives Kada Queens and Heartland Flicker; Dar Ladies from Tanzania, the two Kenyan sides, defending champions Orange and Sliders; and the Wananchi woman's team and the Weatherhead woman's team, both from Uganda.
FIH site
KLHC spoil Terengganu’s target of making clean sweep in MHL
I got it: Terengganu’s Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin (left) reaching for the ball as KLHC defender Mohamad Izad Hakimi closes in during the Charity Shield match at the Batu Buruk Hockey Stadium yesterday. The match ended 2-2. — ZABIDI TUSIN/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: It looks like Terengganu can forget about making a clean sweep of all four titles at stake in this year’s Malaysia Hockey League (MHL).
Kuala Lumpur Hockey Club (KLHC) made sure of that when they clinched the Charity Shield title for the fourth straight time with a 6-5 sudden death penalty shootout win over the east coast team at the Batu Buruk Stadium in Kuala Terengganu yesterday.
The teams were tied at 2-2 after regulation time.
KLHC took the lead off a Muhd Noor Faeez Ibrahim penalty corner goal in the 31st minute. But, just three minutes later, Terengganu equalised through a Faizal Saari field goal.
KLHC regained the lead in the 51st minute with a field goal by Pakistan’s Muhammad Umar Bhutta, but again Terengganu hit back.
And their equaliser came just five minutes later, through South Korean Jang Jong-hyun off a penalty corner.
That forced the match to be decided on penalties.
After the first five mandatory penalties, the score stood at 4-4.
Then came the sudden death shootout.
Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin netted for Terengganu and Muhd Samsul did the same for KLHC. The score was now 5-5.
Muhd Firhan Ashaari then failed with his attempt for Terengganu. And that set the stage for Mohd Syamin Mohd Yusof to be the hero for KLHC.
He duly delivered.
This is the third straight time that Terengganu have lost in the Charity Shield match. Last year, they lost 2-1, also to KLHC.
KLHC team manager Ahmad Anuar Sham Kamar was thrilled to bits with the win, especially since Terengganu had thrashed them 7-2 in the semi-finals of the Tan Sri P. Alagendra Knockout Trophy on Monday.
“This win is a timely boost to our morale and confidence as we now chase after the Premier Division and TNB Cup (overall title),” said Ahmad.
Terengganu coach Sarjit Singh attributed their defeat to his men converting only one of the nine penalty corners they earned.
“This is a good lesson to my players ... that they cannot afford to muff chances.
“Playing four matches in five days (including in the Tan Sri P. Alagendra Knockout Trophy) also took a toll on my players,” he said.
In other Premier Division matches, Maybank struggled to edge minnows Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM)-KPT 3-2, Tenaga Nasional trounced TNB-Thunderbolt 6-1 and Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) outplayed Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sports School (SSTMI) 5-0.
The Star of Malaysia
What India hockey star Sardar Singh plans to do this year
Sardar Singh, who was India’s star at the Asian Men’s Hockey Champions Trophy, is back from a break and will captain the Jaypee Punjab Warriors in Hockey India League. (Getty Images)
The 45-day long break for the Indian senior men’s hockey team after their tour of Australia in November last year has done a world of good for Sardar Singh, who is perhaps India’s most prolific midfielders and senior most players in the Indian squad.
“I think this has been the longest break we have got in a while. After a hectic year, with the 2016 Rio Olympics, this break was personally very good for me as it helped me relax my mind, spend some time with family and also work on my fitness,” stated the former India captain.
Sardar showed exemplary performance at the 2016 Asian Men’s Hockey Champions Trophy in October when he set up the 55th minute goal against South Korea in the semifinals that earned India 2-2 parity after they had trailed 1-2.
His wizardry enthralled hockey lovers world over and also invited praise from chief coach Roelant Oltmans who singled out the star midfielder’s performance in ensuring India’s remarkable comeback. India eventually won the coveted title beating Pakistan 3-2 in the final.
“This break has helped me introspect on my game and how I want to shape my career going forward. Presently, my first aim is to make the probable list for the national camp in March,” asserted Sardar, who will join his team Jaypee Punjab Warriors camp on January 14.
The 31-year-old will lead the Jaypee Punjab Warriors campaign in defending the title at this year’s Hockey India League (HIL).
“This year’s Coal India HIL will be crucial for me as I can assess where I stand and what I need to do to improve my game further. I am inspired by players like Jamie Dawyer of Australia who stayed on top of his game till he was 35-36. So, I don’t think age is a concern. My target is to stay fit physically and mentally till the 2018 Men’s World Cup in India. I want to be on top of my game at the Coal India HIL and ensure a good start to the year,” he stated.
Speaking of his team’s chances of defending the title in front of home crowd, as the HIL finals will be played in Chandigarh, Sardar said their chances are bright but would like to take one-match-at-a-time.
“On paper I think we have the best team and haven’t subjected to many chances like other teams. We are the same team, including the coaching staff, from last year so we understand each other better. But it’s important to start the tournament with a win and carry on the momentum. I think the week-long camp before our first match will help the team come together as one unit,” said the Padma Shri awardee.
Sardar Singh further emphasized that the Junior Men’s team’s performance at the recently held Uttar Pradesh Hockey Junior World Cup Men Lucknow 2016, is the result of good governance and professional approach to the game in India.
“I think the introduction of Coal India Hockey India League and the professional approach in running the system, the kind of money being invested in the sport has done a lot of good to hockey in India. This approach also motivates players and in the past two years, the junior team has done exceptionally well and going forward they will showcase the winning mentally. When you know that you are No.1 in the world, you enter the field feeling like a champion and that mentality will make a big difference,” he added.
Jaypee Punjab Warriors will begin their title defence with the first match played against Dabang Mumbai on 27 January in Mumbai.
The HIL is slated to be held January 27.
Hindustan Times
With 2018 WC in sight, Sardar draws inspiration from Dwyer
NEW DELHI: Almost at the fag end of his career, former India captain Sardar Singh draws inspiration from Australian hockey legend Jamie Dwyer and aims to stay mentally and physically fit for a shot at the 2018 World Cup, to be held at home turf.
The 31-year-old Sardar, who will lead defending champions Jaypee Punjab in the Hockey India League, starting January 21, said the upcoming event will help him to assess his present game.
"This year's HIL will be crucial for me as I can assess where I stand and what I need to do to improve my game further. I am inspired by players like Jamie Dwyer who stayed on top of his game till he was 35-36. So, I don't think age is a concern," the star midfielder said.
"My target is to stay fit physically and mentally till the 2018 men's World Cup in India. I want to be on top of my game at the HIL and ensure a good start to the year," he stated.
The Indian senior hockey team is currently enjoying a long 45-day break after their tour to Australia in November last year, and Sardar feels the rest has done a world of good for him.
"I think this has been the longest break we have got in a while. After a hectic year, with the 2016 Rio Olympics, this break was personally very good for me as it helped me relax my mind, spend some time with the family and also work on my fitness," stated Sardar, who is the senior most player in the current Indian team.
"This break has helped me introspect my game and how I want to shape my career going forward. Presently, my first aim is to make the probables list for the national camp in March," he added.
Speaking of his chances in the upcoming HIL, Sardar said: "On paper I think we have the best team and haven't subjected to many chances like other teams. We are the same team including the coaching staff from last year, so we understand each other better.
"But it's important to start the tournament with a win and carry on the momentum. I think the week-long camp before our first match will help the team come together as one unit."
Punjab Warriors will begin their title defence with the first match against Dabang Mumbai on January 27 in Mumbai.
The Times of India
Legends of the EHL: Guillermo Schickendantz
To celebrate the 10th season of the Euro Hockey League, we will look back on some of the legends of the competition over the coming months, players who were at the centre of making it the world’s premier club hockey competition.
First up, we speak to Guillermo “Willy” Schickendantz, the Argentinean sharp-shooter who scored 20 goals in the competition, primarily in Club Egara colours, firing his way into EHL folklore with his mop of curly hair, flambouyant style and ability to score from anywhere.
Growing up in Cordoba, his was an unlikely rise. Indeed, he only started playing hockey in 1996 at the age of 17 with Cordoba Athletic Club, his “second home”. He initially played tennis until he was 15 and then rugby before settling on hockey – “my best choice”.
He learned quickly, doing well enough to be contacted by UD Taburiente in the Canary Islands and the Spanish league where he served notice of his abilities.
“In Argentina, I only played in Cordoba with my club or with the Cordoba regional selection. A synthetic grass field was only put into my club in 2003. That is why, for me, all the real growth in my hockey came in Taburiente.
“It was decisive for me to train there, especially learning the drag flick technique with Jorge Dabanch.”
Looking back on those times: “I was playing in a great place a very serious and professional club like Taburiente, scoring a lot of goals.
“But in the 2006/07 season, we went down to the second division. The club president told me: ‘Willy, you can go. You did a lot of things for Taburiente and a great job. If you have other options, take them!’
“At the same time, I received the call from Egara to play around the same time I heard the first season of the EHL was coming. It was incredible, a dream come true to play in such a big club competition.”
Due to injury, the EHL proved his first competitive game in the famous blue and white jersey. He wasted no time in scoring what ultimately proved the winner in a 3-2 success against Irish side Pembroke.
“The EHL is impossible to compare with anything like this. It's a tournament synonymous with hockey as a show. It's all for the players and the teams and the fans to be the stars. Everything is there to enjoy; a unique experience!
“I was very nervous [before the Pembroke game] but the team did well; I scored too so everything started better than I expected,” he said. “I think the EHL was where my romance with this amazing club started and began to open doors for everything that came after for me.”
He added another two goals in a win over Poland’s Pocztowiec Poznan but it was the KO16 when Egara and Schickendantz made their biggest impact, beating Bloemendaal 3-2 in one of the most famous ties of the opening season.
“It was really special for everybody for a lot of reasons. First, because the win was against one of the best teams in the world, not just European hockey. We played at home with so many fans enjoying this great moment.
“I scored two goals with my father and my first ever hockey coach were there watching the game; many things I will never forget.”
Their KO8 tie was easier, Willy firing home the opening goal in a 4-0 win over Saint Germain, putting them through to the FINAL4 in Rotterdam. Ultimately, they came unstuck against eventual champions UHC Hamburg and then missed out on bronze in a shoot-out against the host club.
Nonetheless, Schickendantz loved the spectacle of playing in front of a jam-packed stadium with the beats pumping and a feast of top class club hockey.
“Until that moment I had never played with my national team. I was not an international player and I did not have experience with so many people watching the games. It was an amazing hockey experience.
“Most of my teammates had played World Cups and Olympic Games. They were more accustomed to living something similar. I tried to enjoy it to the maximum.
“We were very close to going to the final and then, after the shoot-out, we were fourth. But, without a doubt, the prize was to be there.”
He continued to score many goals, passing the 100 goal mark in Spain’s Honor Division inside five seasons in 2009. He would also go on to help Club de Campo to silverware following his switch to the Madrid with Edi Tubau.
He was part of the Madrid squad’s first EHL entry when they reached the FINAL4 of the 2010/11 edition when they swept all the way to the final of the competition. At this stage, he was well established as the tournament’s top goalscorer with 20 to his name – he remains seventh on the all-time list.
“I scored a lot of goals and, without doubt, it has a very special place in my memory. In the EHL I was considered a star without having played any international matches. My Argentina selection was only because of what I was doing there. It’s impossible to forget and is among my best memories and always in my heart.
“Journalists, officials, fans of other clubs and, in general, the hockey people of Europe began to know me and to give their respect thanks to the EHL.”
He had trained for a while with the Italian national team with whom he was eligible due to family connections. But Argentina belatedly came calling when he was 33 when he made his debut at the Champions Challenge I in Quilmes.
He retained his place into the 2014 World Cup, winning bronze in the Hague.
“Of course, te EHL helped me; I think playing in Europe helped me in general. I scored more than 300 goals there and I learned the drag flick!
“But I respect the moments and processes that got me to that point. The moment arrived at 33 and maybe if I had been in the national team before then, I would never have been able to play the EHL.
“That's why I'm very happy. I have been able to enjoy the EHL and my sports career in Europe and I have also enjoyed playing for Argentina coming third in the world.”
Euro Hockey League media release
Brown and Keegan step down from coaching roles
Craig Keegan, Lily Owsley and Karen Brown
After helping to achieve historic gold medal success in Rio last summer, Karen Brown and Craig Keegan have decided to step down from their roles as assistant coaches to the England and Great Britain women’s hockey team.
Brown is England and Great Britain’s second-highest capped player of all time, with 355 caps to her name, as well as Olympic bronze, European gold and Commonwealth silver medals from her playing days. Add to that Olympic gold & bronze, European gold, Commonwealth silver and World Cup bronze as a coach, and her achievements on and off the pitch are unsurpassed in the sport in this country.
Keegan’s contribution over the past nine years has also hugely contributed to the most successful period in the history of the women’s team, with silver in Glasgow in 2014, then gold in both London and Rio in 2015 & 2016 respectively. In addition, he led our women’s under 21s to a bronze medal at the Europeans.
Brown commented, “I am immensely proud of all that the GB and England women’s teams have achieved since 2005 when I commenced working with Danny Kerry and the squad. During this period the team’s world ranking has gone from ninth in the world in 2005 to second in 2016, its highest-ever ranking and the squad has won multiple medals at every major hockey event during an unprecedented period for the sport.
“The gold medal success in Rio is obviously a highlight, but I take as much pride in the culture and environment of the Central Programme I helped to create in 2009 at Bisham Abbey. This environment has developed not just athletes, but also the coaches and support staff to produce high performing teams and maximise their individual and collective potential. My decision to step away is based on a lifestyle choice and I am delighted that I will continue to be involved in future activities with England Hockey on a consultancy basis. I would like to place on record my immense gratitude to Danny Kerry and all of the athletes and staff I have had the privilege to work with over the last eleven years and wish them all the very best for the future.”
Keegan commented, “My time at England Hockey has been an absolute pleasure. To sum it up, I’ve taken the most joy from seeing athletes develop from potential players to Olympic champions over the course of nine years.
“I’d like to thank all of the athletes, they’re the people I’ve been most passionate about working with, I had a good rapport with both the seniors and the under 21s and I will miss that immensely. I have also hugely enjoyed working with all of the staff, I coached under both Danny Kerry and Jason Lee, different characters of course but exceptionally good coaches and great to learn from both of them.
“It’s nice to be leaving the organisation in a strong position, I don’t think this is the end of the road for my coaching, but right now my family is the priority and I’m looking forward to starting work for the University of Derby, heading up their performance sport programmes.
“Of course the final memory will be Rio, and it’s hard to put it into words. Everyone involved, the 31-plus players, ten or fifteen staff, everyone played a key role. I was very privileged to be part of that and I know the department is in strong hands.”
Head Coach Danny Kerry added, “With the finishing of one cycle it is common for both athletes and staff to examine their personal circumstances. We will miss Craig’s passion and fire in our programme as he chooses understandably to spend more time with his daughter. Karen’s departure will leave a big hole in a number of areas of our programme, her huge experience and expertise will be difficult to replace. I am sure both Karen and Craig’s work and legacy will echo in our programme. As ever all change represents an opportunity if you choose to seek it. I am sure new coaching staff will bring new ideas and fresh character to our support team. In the meantime a massive thank you to Karen and Craig and I wish them the very best in their new ventures.”
Performance Director, Ed Barney commented, “With the recent and unprecedented success of the women’s squad, we owe a huge thanks and debt of gratitude to the coaches. Craig has been with us for over nine years and I’m sure the squad will miss him. I believe Craig has been integral to the development of many of our players that have developed into senior internationals and those that went on to win in Rio. We wish him all the very best in his new venture.
“With six Olympic cycles, three as a player and three as a coach, Karen has brought a huge amount of experience, passion and skill to the coaching team. Her positive contribution through both the challenging and successful moments has been critical to the continued and recent success. Her contribution will certainly be missed, but we’re delighted that Karen will be continuing to work with England and Great Britain Hockey in a coach development capacity as we look to develop the next generation of world-leading coaches.”
England Hockey would also like to place on record our gratitude to both Karen and Craig for their tremendous contribution to the sport in this country and helping to inspire a future generation of hockey players.
Applications are being sought for women’s assistant coach here.
England Hockey Board Media release
7th Sub Jr Women’s National C’ship: UP Hockey beat Sports Authority of India 3-1
Ramanathapuram (Tamil Nadu) [India]: Uttar Pradesh Hockey on Friday scored a brilliant 3-1 win against Sports Authority of India in a Pool A encounter on Day 3 of the Hockey India 7th Sub Junior National Hockey Championship 2017 (Women) ‘A’ Division.
Though it was Sports Authority of India who took the lead with the first goal of the match coming in the 19th minute via field goal by Lanchenbi Chanu Khundrakpam, Uttar Pradesh Hockey fought back with subsequent goals in the 23rd, 32nd and 50th minute. While Yogita Bora scored two goals, Mumtaz Khan scored a goal to ensure their team walked away with three points.
In yet another closely fought match, Hockey Jharkhand beat Madhya Pradesh Hockey Academy 6-4. Maximum goals in this match came in the second half after Hockey Jharkhand took the lead of 1-0 going into half time.
Though Madhya Pradesh Hockey Academy equalized in the 37th minute through a quick brace by Yogita Verma, Hockey Jharkhand’s Sangita Kumari scored back-to-back goals in the 38th and 42nd minute. She later bettered her performance with three more goals in the 49th, 54th and 65th minute.
Though Madhya Pradesh Hockey Academy tried to come back into the game with a goal in the 61st and 66th minute, it was in vain.
Hockey Haryana showed class as they outclassed Hockey Gangpur- Odisha 4-2. Amandeep Kaur of Hockey Haryana starred in her team’s victory with two goals coming in the 15th and 61st minute while team captain Reet and Deepika scored a goal each in the 41st and 67th minute to ensure a win.
Jiwan Kishori Toppo was the lone scorer for Hockey Gangpur-Odisha with two back-to-back goals in the 27th and 32nd minute to her credit.
In the last game on Thursday, Hockey Chandigarh got the better of Hockey Patiala to take a three-point lead. Amrit Pal (43′) and Sonu (70′) starred in Hockey Chandigarh’s convincing 2-0 win against rivals Hockey Patiala in their Pool A encounter. Despite a goalless half time where both teams struggled to open the score, Hockey Chandigarh kept up their strong defence in the second half and tried different variations to earn a field goal followed by a penalty corner in the dying minutes of the game.
Meanwhile, in the final of the Hockey India 7th Sub Junior National Hockey Championship 2017 (Women) B Division Hockey Him beat Hockey Bhopal 6-1.
Hockey Him looked on top of their game right from the word go with their score reading 3-0 in the half time. Ankita Dahiya was the star performer for Hockey Him in the final with four successive goals in the 14th, 18th, 41st and 62nd minute.
Jyoti was the other goal scorer for the winning team with two goals in the 13th and 64th minute. Hockey Bhopal’s lone goal came in the 66th minute when Priyanka Dhakad converted a field goal.
In the bronze medal match, Hockey Coorg beat Hockey Madhya Bharat 3-1 to secure a podium finish. Hockey Coorg took an early lead with 7th minute goal by Rischika Thimmaiah B. Padmavathi S Madli and Kavya GS added to the score board with a goal each in the 38th and 69th minute. Divya Soni scored the lone goal for Hockey Madhya Bharat in the 64th minute.
The Siasat Daily
Richie McCaw and Gemma Flynn say 'I do' at Wanaka wedding
Congratulations Mr and Mrs McCaw.
The All Black legend and the Black Sticks star have tied the knot in Wanaka.
Against the stunning backdrop of Lake Wanaka guests and the bridal party watched on as McCaw and Flynn exchanged vows at the venue, The Olive Grove.
Afterwards, the newly married couple were taken by helicopter to have pictures taken, and returned to the venue a couple of hours later.
Guests began arriving as early as 1pm in yellow taxis. Two busloads also arrived - one thought to be extended family and the other friends.
Inside the venue, seats and flowers were laid out. Outside, security was ramped up at the venue, including uniformed police officers.
Shortly before 2pm two Mercedes Benz - one black and one white - arrived.
In March 2016, McCaw signed on to Mercedes Benz's Friend of the Brand programme.
Members of the public and sports fans had also gathered near the venue gates, taking photos of the arrivals.
The wedding has been dubbed the closest New Zealand will get to a royal wedding - and it's understood there's an exclusive magazine deal.
It's just over a year since All Black legend McCaw proposed to Flynn, Olympian and national Black Sticks hockey player.
It's understood that there was a pre-wedding party at Rippon Hall - a vineyard a few hundred metres up the road from the Olive Grove.
A large marquee - able to be seen from across the lake where McCaw has a holiday home - has been erected for the ceremony. A live band arrived about 1pm.
Controversial PR boss Michelle Boag has sent out a warning over the wedding.
In a statement released by Boag, the security firm covering Richie McCaw's wedding to Gemma Flynn says drones flying above the site will be considered trespass.
"The wedding will take place on private property and the adjacent property has also been secured," says the statement from Platform4 Group.
"Security will be in place to ensure that the premises and all aspects of the ceremony remain private. Any photos taken as a result of a trespass should not be published and will result in legal action."
Boag was in hot water two weeks ago when she attempted to defend Mad Butcher Sir Peter Leitch from racism claims and ended up accused of racial insensitivity herself.
Guests include All Blacks coach Steve Hansen, McCaw's good mate Rob Nichol from the NZ Rugby Players' Association and members of the Black Sticks including Rose Keddell.
Notable omissions from the wedding guest list are McCaw's long time All Black team-mates, and great mates off the field, Ali Williams and Dan Carter.
Both Carter and Williams are in France with their club Racing 92 ahead of this weekend's European Champions Cup clash against Leicester. McCaw was one of Williams' five groomsmen when the former All Black lock married Casey Green in late 2011.
Former Prime Minister John Key is also off the guest list - he's in London enroute to Munich to chair the International Democratic Union executive meeting.
McCaw and Flynn have been together for four years and in Wanaka with family on holiday since the New Year, sparking rumours the long-planned wedding was imminent.
McCaw has been seen at his favourite local haunts and was believed to have had his stag function at Urban Grind, a stylish bar and eatery in town where he is a familiar face.
The New Zealand Herald
'I do': Richie McCaw marries Gemma Flynn in Wanaka video
MARTIN VAN BEYNEN
Gemma Flynn and fiance Richie McCaw in November 2016.
Richie McCaw and Gemma Flynn have wed at a top-secret ceremony in Wanaka.
Kiwi rugby great Richie McCaw has married his partner Gemma Flynn in a top-secret ceremony in Wanaka.
The pair's union was made official about 3.30pm on Saturday. Three helicopters landed at the venue just after 4pm.
Guests started arriving at the Wanaka venue The Olive Grove early on Saturday afternoon, followed by McCaw himself just after 2pm. About 80 guests, including Steve Hansen, were picked up from Infinity Drive and Mt Aspiring College and arrived by bus.
The day began cloudy and windy, but looked to be improving at The Olive Grove, where a large marquee stood ready for the party. A ceremonial arch was erected near the tent and the word 'LOVE' was spelled out in large block white letters on the lawn.
Conditions were largely calm and sunny by the time the ceremony began, about 2.30pm. Security was tight at the Wanaka venue where a guard was watching over the track at the back of the property.
A helicopter arrives at the venue in Wanaka. GEORGE HEARD/FAIRFAX NZ
Wedding guests were ferried to the luxury venue in yellow taxis with blacked-out windows that were stopped by security guards before entering.
One name that will not be on the list, however, is Dan Carter.
McCaw's old team-mate and long-time friend was not able to make the trip home due to playing commitments with the Racing Metro club.
"I don't even know if he got invited to the wedding, because he's that busy at the moment," the former All Black pivot's mum said.
Carter is listed to play for his club in a Champions Cup match against Leicester on Sunday (NZ time). The team plays again next weekend.
Bev Carter said she could relate to what the McCaw and Flynn families were going through in the lead-up to the wedding. There was intense media and public interest when her son married hockey star Honor Dillon in 2011.
Steve Hansen was among the guests brought by bus to the venue. GEORGE HEARD/FAIRFAX NZ
"I was just reading [about McCaw's wedding] in The Press [on Saturday] - it sounded familiar."
Carter said she and husband Neville largely escaped the limelight in the build-up to the big day.
"We weren't involved in that, it was more the people organising the wedding. The bride's parents and family. I'm sure they found it hard."
COUNTDOWN TO THE BIG DAY
Wanaka wedding caterer Brent Makeham declined to comment when asked if his company was involved. He has catered for All Black weddings in Wanaka before, including Andrew Hore's 2008 nuptials.
Makeham previously said that Wanaka was the ideal place for a high-profile wedding, saying that "small towns can keep secrets".
There was a party at Rippon Vineyard last night. Were Richie McCaw and Gemma Flynn celebrating with friends the night before their wedding? GEORGE HEARD/FAIRFAX NZ
Meanwhile, All Black Ben Smith was spotted popping over to visit McCaw at his home on Saturday morning, where security was also keeping out the sightseers.
McCaw and Flynn were believed to have held a pre-wedding party at the Rippon vineyard near the wedding venue on Friday night.
The party was still going strong towards midnight, a source, who asked for anonymity, said.
Wedding guests wait to board the bus to The Olive Grove. GEORGE HEARD/FAIRFAX NZ
FATHER'S PLEA
McCaw's father appealed on Friday for people to respect his son and future daughter-in-law's privacy.
"It would be good if they could have some privacy. It's their day," said Don McCaw, who is staying at his son's house in Wanaka.
He said he could not help further as it was all "being taken care of".
Guests arrive at The Olive Grove by taxi on Saturday. GEORGE HEARD/FAIRFAX NZ
THE VENUE
A cottage on the property can be used for the bridal party as a preparation area.
Earlier on Friday, security guards at the venue had said a wealthy, privacy-seeking Chinese businessman was the reason for tight security.
The ATV security guards said they were doing some maintenance for the owner but did not appear to know his name and one had a radio. They were patrolling a fence line at the back of The Olive Grove property, which separates the venue from a stand of kanuka under a QE covenant. The track through the stand has been closed.
The marquee for the wedding of Richie McCaw and Gemma Flynn.
With a big smile on his face, one of the security men said the businessman who "liked his privacy" was the reason for a sign at the entrance closing the track going past the perimeter fence.
"You know how they like their privacy," he said.
The Chinese businessman appears yet another ruse to put the media off the track of the McCaw/Flynn nuptials.
Hansen, who arrived at Queenstown Airport about 3pm on Friday, appeared to be playing the game as well.
"There is no wedding this weekend. I'm not even going to a wedding," he said as he entered Queenstown with his partner.
He later got into a silver Audi and, with his family and dog in tow, headed straight for Wanaka.
Security is strong at the wedding venue as guards check taxis as they arrive with wedding guests. GEORGE HEARD/FAIRFAX NZ
The Olive Grove owner John Blennerhassett said the venue was booked out "months ago" for a wedding this weekend, but he could not say for whom.
"I certainly haven't heard of it being for a McCaw wedding but maybe my wife booked them in and didn't tell me," he said.
Their clients were "very happy to know they were confidential about who was getting married there", Blennerhassett said.
"It's got to be somewhere around here", he said. "It's a beautiful area."
Richie McCaw and Gemma Flynn celebrate the All Blacks' 2015 Rugby World Cup win together. DAVID ROGERS/GETTY IMAGES
The magazine Woman's Day is believed to have exclusive rights to cover the wedding.
THE DRESS
The big question of Flynn's dress choice is still up in the air after audiences were left hanging in her recent episode of Say Yes to the Dress.
Flynn appeared on the show and tried a number of dresses on at a Sydney bridal store as she was helped by her two cousins, her best friend, and her mum.
Gemma Flynn took part in Say Yes To The Dress Australia as part of her wedding preparations.
She said on the show she would spend a hefty $6000 to $8000 on the gown, but was modest about her choice in husband.
Stuff
Birds banned over Wanaka as airspace closed for Richie and Gemma's wedding
Richie McCaw and Gemma Flynn are one of New Zealand's most high-profile sporting couples. JASON DORDAY/FAIRFAX NZ
Richie McCaw clipped the wings of an Australian paparazzi agency who hired a plane to try to take footage of the All Black great's wedding to Gemma Flynn.
A light aircraft from Wanaka had been hired by Australian paparazzi agency Mendes Media on Saturday to take shots of the wedding from the sky.
Just moments before the wedding was due to take place and the flight route disclosed by the agency, the company unceremoniously cancelled the booking.
Richie McCaw and Gemma Flynn announced their engagement in January last year.
It is understood the agency is considering legal action against the airline for loss of earnings with an Auckland lawyer.
The move could be a show of solidarity from the South Island's aeronautical community and McCaw, a professional helicopter pilot.
Several heli-tour companies have declined media inquiries about flights over the area.
Strict security is in place around the venue, which is taking place at The Olive Grove.
Public relations guru Michelle Boag issued a statement to media on behalf of security firm Platform4 Group chief executive Aaron Colthurst that the use of "drones or any other aerial device" was banned above the wedding venue and a neighbouring property.
"This is a special day for Richie and Gemma and we ask that media please respect their privacy on this occasion," said Colthurst.
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The couple are believed to have sold the rights to their wedding to a woman's magazine.
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