News for 17 February 2017
All the news for Friday 17 February 2017
Argentina outclass Black Sticks in game three
Liz Thompson in action for the Black Sticks against Argentina. Photo: Hernan Pablo Barrios
Hosts Argentina took control in Friday’s third test with a 3-0 result over the Vantage Black Sticks Women in Buenos Aires.
Argentina stepped up the tempo leading on from Wednesday’s 1-0 loss with their speed and tempo proving too much for the Kiwis.
The Black Sticks again created some strong chances but weren’t able to put them into the back of the goal.
Assistant coach Sean Dancer said it was a frustrating game in which they allowed the hosts to play on their terms.
“It was a frustrating game today, we didn’t pay attention to some of the little details and allowed Argentina to dictate to us,” he said.
“Playing a top tier team you need to be at the top of your game and today we lacked the quality of basics in our tackling and ball control under pressure.
“We have a quick turnaround ahead of tomorrow’s fourth game so the girls will do their recovery and scouting to ensure we go into the challenge on the front foot.”
Argentina made a fast start and ran out to an early lead in just the fourth minute when Maria Granatto deflected into goal from close range.
The hosts doubled their advantage midway through the second quarter with Eugenia Trinchinetti capitalising on a loose ball in the circle.
Argentina sealed the result from a 36th minute penalty corner which Delfina Merino crashed into goal after an initial save.
The Black Sticks go up against Argentina in test four at 10:00am tomorrow morning (NZ time), with the game streamed live online
CLICK HERE for more on the Vantage Black Sticks Women vs Argentina
VANTAGE BLACK STICKS 0
ARGENTINA 3: (Maria Granatto, Eugenia Trinchinetti, Delfina Merino)
Halftime: Argentina 2-0
Hockey New Zealand Media release
Scotland lose to France in tight second test match
Scotland’s senior men lost their second test match against France 2-1 in Le Touquet. The result follows the previous day’s 2-1 victory for the Scots as part of final preparations for World League 2 in Belfast next month.
In this game Scotland got off to a slow start and were punished for it. The Blue Sticks gave away a penalty corner in the eighth minute and as a result lost the opening goal.
The French then doubled their advantage through a scrappy goal at the end of the first quarter to cap off a difficult opening period for Scotland.
The first quarter was dominated by France and it was where they did the most damage to the Scots. The game was fairly even from the second quarter onward, although the game didn’t present much in the way of clear cut chances for either side.
Scotland created two half chances - Wei Adams had a half chance deflected past the post. William Marshall then had a penalty corner effort run down by the French defence.
There was nothing in the game for either side, and first quarter aside the contest was stalemate.
Then in the final quarter Scotland went all out attack. There were three minutes to go when Adams finally struck from a penalty corner. He sent a great direct flick into the back of the net to make the score 2-1. It didn’t leave much time to find an equaliser, although the Scots pressed hard in search of one. In the end it finished 2-1 to France and left the Scots to rue the slow start that ultimately cost them.
Scotland men’s Head Coach Derek Forsyth said, “We’re disappointed at how we started the game, our standard was not what we set in the opening match. We gave France the upper hand and it was hard to come back from. We did really well in the final quarter but we didn’t have enough time to score a second goal.
“We have something to prove when we play again on Friday. We want to win the match and finish off the series with a win.”
Scotland will play France in the third and final test match on Friday morning in Le Touquet.
Scottish Hockey Union media release
Vantage Black Sticks Men to host Pakistan
Photo: www.photosport.nz
The Vantage Black Sticks Men are set to open their year with an exciting five test series against Pakistan in Wellington and Wairarapa next month.
The series, which serves as the Black Sticks’ first competition for 2017, will see three tests at the National Hockey Stadium in Wellington (17, 18, 20 March) and two games at Trust House Hockey Wairarapa in Clareville (22 and 23 March).
The announcement comes following news that former Kiwi international Darren Smith has been appointed as new head coach of the programme.
Wellington Hockey Chief Executive Trafford Wilson said the games will be a celebration of the sport ahead of a big year.
“Wellington Hockey is thrilled to be hosting the Black Sticks Men vs Pakistan for the first three games of their five match series.
“2017 marks a milestone year as the National Hockey Stadium in Berhampore looks to open its third turf in late March, which is set to bring more top level hockey to the region and support the sports significant membership growth.
“We look forward to working with Hockey New Zealand to make this test series a huge success and the opportunity to continue to grow our sport’s profile across the Wellington region.
Wairarapa Hockey Executive Officer Kelly Govan expressed it was exciting news for the community.
“Hockey Wairarapa is delighted to have received confirmation that the Black Sticks Men and Pakistan will be playing two tests in the Wairarapa.
“We hope to recreate the same brilliant atmosphere here at Clareville, and excitement within the local community as we did when the Black Sticks Women played the USA back in 2014.
“This will be the first time the men have played in the region and all local sports fans should relish the opportunity to watch under lights what are sure to be skilful, high speed games between two world class teams.”
Tickets for all five games will go on sale early next week through the official Black Sticks website (www.blacksticks.co.nz)
The Vantage Black Sticks Men’s team to compete against Pakistan will be announced in early March.
VANTAGE BLACK STICKS MEN vs PAKISTAN – MATCH SCHEDULE
National Hockey Stadium, Wellington
Friday 17th March - Game 1 - 6:30pm
Saturday 18th March - Game 2 - 4:30pm
Monday 20th March - Game 3 - 7:00pm
Trust House Hockey Wairarapa, Clareville
Wednesday 22nd March - Game 4 - 6:30pm
Thursday 23rd March - Game 5 - 6:30pm
Hockey New Zealand Media release
Black Sticks men to host Pakistan for five tests
Simon Child and Nick Wilson launch an attack for New Zealand. PHOTOSPORT
The Black Sticks men's hockey team will play Pakistan in five tests in New Zealand next month.
The series, which is the Black Sticks' first action in 2017, will see three tests at the National Hockey Stadium in Wellington ( March 17, 18, 20) and two games at Clareville in the Wairarapa (March 22 and 23).
The tests come on the heels of the appointment of former Kiwi international Darren Smith as new head coach of the men's programme.
Meanwhile, the Black Sticks women were beaten 3-0 by Argentina in their third test in Buenos Aires on Friday (NZ time).
After beating Argentina 1-0 on Wednesday, the Black Sticks couldn't match the speed and tempo of their hosts who now lead the six-test series 2-1.
The Black Sticks again created some strong chances but weren't able to put them into the back of the goal.
"It was a frustrating game today, we didn't pay attention to some of the little details and allowed Argentina to dictate to us," New Zealand assistant coach Sean Dancer said.
"Playing a top tier team you need to be at the top of your game and today we lacked the quality of basics in our tackling and ball control under pressure.
"We have a quick turnaround ahead of tomorrow's fourth game so the girls will do their recovery and scouting to ensure we go into the challenge on the front foot."
Argentina made a fast start and ran out to an early lead in just the fourth minute when Maria Granatto deflected into goal from close range.
The hosts doubled their advantage midway through the second quarter with Eugenia Trinchinetti capitalising on a loose ball in the circle.
Argentina sealed the result from a 36th minute penalty corner which Delfina Merino crashed into goal after an initial save.
The Black Sticks go up against Argentina in test four at 10am Saturday (NZ time).
Stuff
Wiese Names 18 USMNT Athletes to Travel to Trinidad and Tobago for FIH Hockey World League Round 2
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - With nearly a month standing between the U.S. Men's National Team and their first game of the FIH Hockey World League Round 2 in Trinidad and Tobago, USMNT Head Coach Rutger Wiese is pleased to name the 18-athlete squad that will make the trip for the event taking place Saturday, March 25 through Sunday, April 2, 2017.
“Congratulations to the 18 players selected for this tournament," said Wiese. "After a great camp, we are excited to continue to follow the direction we agreed on as a team the past month. Although all men were extremely competitive in Spain we feel confident as staff that we selected the best athletes at this moment for the World League Round 2 tournament. We will face world class competition and we are looking forward to play our very best.”
Selections for the FIH Hockey World League Round 2 tournament were determined on a recent training camp held in Barcelona, Spain from January 20 - 30 as well as previous events. The 10-day block in Spain started with the USMNT hitting the pitch for two-a-day sessions before taking on Catalunya and Spanish powerhouse, Hockey Club Atletic Terrassa. The second part of the training camp included three games in three days against Wales, another team preparing for their respective FIH Hockey World League Round 2 competition.
The pool of participating teams for the FIH Hockey World League Round 2 is made up of Hero FIH World Ranked No. 11 Canada, No. 16 Japan, No. 22 Russia, No. 26 Chile, No. 30 Switzerland, No. 33 Trinidad and Tobago and No. 49 Barbados. USA sits in the middle of the Hero FIH World Ranked at No. 29 and is in Pool A with Barbados, Canada and Chile.
Team USA will open the tournament competition against Canada on Saturday, March 25, followed by Barbados the following day. From there, the USA will face Chile on Tuesday, March 28 before crossover play with the quarterfinals on Thursday, March 30. The top team will automatically advance to FIH Hockey World League Round 3 (Semifinals) to be held in June and July 2017.
The USMNT is looking for support to raise funds in an effort to cover air and ground transportation to compete at World League Round 2. A gift of any size directly contributes to the USMNT and their upcoming tour. We appreciate your consideration in advance. Please click here to view more details.
USA Field Hockey would like to congratulate the following athletes who were selected to represent the USA in Trinidad and Tobago at the FIH Hockey World League Round 2:
 MICHAEL BARMINSKI #3 | MIDFIELDER 56 CAPS VENTURA, CA |
 TOM BARRATT #14 | DEFENDER 37 CAPS GREENSBORO, NC |
 SEAN CICCHI #20 | DEFENDER 33 CAPS THOUSAND OAKS, CA |
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 MOHAN GANDHI #26 | MIDFIELDER 54 CAPS VENTURA, CA |
 ALEX GRASSI #6 | MIDFIELDER 40 CAPS BROOKEVILLE, MD |
 PAT HARRIS #5 | STRIKER 113 CAPS MOORPARK, CA |
 WILLIAM HOLT #11 | STRIKER 107 CAPS CAMARILLO, CA |
 AKI KAEPPELER #29 | DEFENDER 28 CAPS STUTTGART, GERMANY |
 BRANDON KARESS GOALKEEPER 10 CAPS ALLENTOWN, PA |
 AMARDEEP KHOKAR MIDFIELDER 4 CAPS VALENCIA, CA |
 ADAM MILLER #9 | DEFENDER 28 CAPS PANAMA CITY, FL |
 NICK MOLCSAN STRIKER 8 CAPS WANGANUI, NEW ZEALAND |
 JOHNNY OROZCO #22 | DEFENDER 51 CAPS VENTURA, CA |
 KEELING PILARO DEFENDER 0 CAPS SOUTHHAMPTON, NY |
 PAUL SINGH #18 | MIDFIELDER 40 CAPS SIMI VALLEY, CA |
 TYLER SUNDEEN #4 | STRIKER 79 CAPS SIMI VALLEY, CA |
 ANDY ZAYAC #28 | GOALKEEPER 15 CAPS HAYWARD, CA |
Along with the achievement of getting to represent your country and wear red, white and blue, Pilaro will look to record his first international cap with the USMNT while in Trinidad and Tobago.
For more information on FIH Hockey World League Round 2, including schedule, results, news and more, visit the FIH Hockey World League Round 2 event page on usafieldhockey.com.
*Based off of FIH Hero World Rankings January 2017
USFHA media release
Uttar Pradesh Wizards climb to third spot with a 4-0 win against Ranchi Rays 
Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Wizards enthralled the home crowd with a scintillating 4-0 win against two-time title holders Ranchi Rays that lifted them to the third spot in the points table. Field goals by Seve van Ass (37′) and Akashdeep Singh (60′) sealed the much-needed five points from the match here at the Coal India Hockey India League.
When the two teams met earlier in the league, they split the points with a 0-0 draw in Ranchi. Placed at the bottom of the table, and three more games left in the pool stage, it was a must-win game for the home side to keep their Semi Final hopes alive. Ensuring the Uttar Pradesh Wizards didn’t concede PCs was one of their key strategies insisted skipper V.R Raghunath ahead of the match and they stuck to the plan.
While both teams went into the first break locked in a stalemate, Uttar Pradesh Wizards got off the blocks in the second quarter pressing hard in the circle and it paid off when they won the first PC in the 19th minute. But the chance went begging when Argentine drag flicker Gonzalo Peillat’s strike was padded away by Ranchi Rays’ goalkeeper Tyler Lovell. Arthur van Doren fetched the home team their second PC in the 26th minute but Raghunath’s flick was blocked by Ranchi Rays’ first rusher Manpreet Singh. The first half ended with the score reading 0-0.
A sloppy defence in the heart of the striking circle saw Ranchi Rays concede a field goal when Seve van Ass was left unmarked. The Dutchman made no mistake in taking advantage of the opportunity as he tapped the ball past Tyler Lovell in the 37th minute giving the home team a 2-0 lead. Ranchi Rays came close to equalizing in the 40th minute when Flynn Ogilvie took a shot at the post after a good assist by Timothy Deavin but an alert P.R Sreejesh ensured the Uttar Pradesh Wizards kept the lead.
The final quarter witnessed the Ranchi Rays hold much of the ball possession but they also lost their video referral when they asked for a PC due to a stick tackle in the circle but the referral went against Ranchi Rays’ favor. Uttar Pradesh Wizards’ defence was rock solid today as they denied the visitors any chance at scoring though the Ranchi Rays had as many as 12 circle entries. Akashdeep Singh struck another field goal with just seconds to go for the final hooter to win the match 4-0.
Akashdeep Singh from Uttar Pradesh Wizards was awarded with a prize money of Rs 50,000 for scoring the Coal India Goal of the Match from Mr Deepak Mangal, Regional Sales Manager, Coal India Ltd.
Akashdeep Singh of Uttar Pradesh Wizards won the prize of Rs 25,000 for being the Hero Young Achiever of the Match from Mr. Dhanraj Pillay, Olympian.
The Airtel Most Entertaining Player of the Match was awarded to Arthur van Doren of Uttar Pradesh Wizards that came with a prize money of Rs 25,000 and presented by Mr. Anupam Goswami, Executive Vice President, Star India.
Seve van Ass of Uttar Pradesh Wizards was declared the Man of the Match and was awarded a prize money of Rs 50,000 by Mr. Rajan Sharma, General Manager, Coca Cola.
Official HIL site
UP Wizards defeat Ranch Rays by 4-0 in the 24th match of HIL 2017
Uttar Pradesh Wizards posted a 4-0 win against Ranchi Rays and have climbed to the third spot in the points table. Field goals by Seve van Ass (37') and Akashdeep Singh (60') sealed the much-needed five points from the match here at the Coal India Hockey India League.
Placed at the bottom of the table, and three more games left in the pool stage, it was a must-win game for the home side to keep their Semi Final hopes alive.
After a goalless first quarter, Uttar Pradesh Wizards got off the blocks in the second quarter pressing hard in the circle and it paid off when they won the first PC in the 19th minute. Argentine drag flicker Gonzalo Peillat’s strike was padded away by Ranchi Rays’ goalkeeper Tyler Lovell. Arthur van Doren fetched the home team their second PC in the 26th minute but Raghunath’s flick was blocked by Ranchi Rays’ first rusher Manpreet Singh. The first half ended with the score reading 0-0.
A sloppy defence in the heart of the striking circle saw Ranchi Rays concede a field goal when Seve van Ass was left unmarked. The Dutchman made no mistake in taking advantage of the opportunity as he tapped the ball past Tyler Lovell in the 37th minute giving the home team a 2-0 lead. Ranchi Rays came close to equalizing in the 40th minute when Flynn Ogilvie took a shot at the post after a good assist by Timothy Deavin but an alert P.R Sreejesh ensured the Uttar Pradesh Wizards kept the lead.
The final quarter witnessed the Ranchi Rays hold much of the ball possession but they also lost their video referral when they asked for a PC due to a stick tackle in the circle but the referral went against Ranchi Rays’ favor. Uttar Pradesh Wizards’ defence was rock solid today as they denied the visitors any chance at scoring though the Ranchi Rays had as many as 12 circle entries. Akashdeep Singh struck another field goal with just seconds to go for the final hooter to win the match 4-0.
AWARDS:
Goal of the Match: Akashdeep Singh
Young Achiever of the Match: Akashdeep Singh
Most Entertaining Player of the Match: Arthur van Doren
Man of the Match: Seve van Ass
Stick2Hockey.com
Wizards leapfrog to the third spot
Records first ever victory against Ranchi Rays
Uthra Ganesan
Lucknow: Players of Ranchi Rays and Uttar Pradesh (UP) Wizards in action during a Hockey India League (HIL) match in Lucknow on Thursday. | Photo Credit: PTI
Uttar Pradesh Wizards registered its first-ever victory against two-time champion Ranchi Rays in the Hockey India League (HIL) to not just stay alive in the competition but also leapfrog into third position at the Major Dhyanchand Stadium here on Thursday.
The host rode on field goals from Akashdeep Singh and Seve van Ass to win 4-0, taking its total to 20 points with three games in hand. Ranchi has just one more game, and with 18 points, is in a precarious situation in the race to the semifinals.
As has been the case right through the season, Ranchi created the chances, did the hard work and managed to keep possession for a major part but was let down by its forwards. That has been the story of the side so far and it was no different on Thursday.
Manpreet Singh, Gurbaj Singh and Barry Middleton ensured the team did not lose the ball and kept sending passes into the striking circle, orchestrating moves all the way from the back to the front, only to see them go waste.
Birendra Lakra and Kothajit Singh tried to brave the UPW attacks and Tyler Lovell brought off some good saves but all of it mattered little.
Van Ass wrong-footed his marker Christopher Ruhr after receiving a long corner from Ajitesh Roy in the 37th minute to put the host ahead and Akashdeep struck a rasping reverse hit from the top of the circle 37 seconds from time to double the lead and end Ranchi’s hopes. But while Gurbaj and Manpreet tirelessly kept setting up chances, Ruhr and Co. failed to get the final shot in.
Only two penalty corners
That there were only two penalty corners conceded throughout the match, both by Ranchi, highlighted both the preference for field goals by the teams in the HIL this season and the teams’ struggle with their conversion rates. Ranchi has been the hardest hit — of the 33 it has earned so far, only one has been converted as Ashley Jackson seemed to have lost his mojo.
On Thursday, the Englishman fluffed his passing and trapping as well, to add to Ranchi’s troubles. German striker Ruhr had a forgettable outing as well.
UPW, on the other hand, had Akashdeep Singh in fine form. He teamed up with Agustin Mazzilli to set up others and this proved the youngster’s growth as a team player before he got himself on the scoresheet.
The result: UP Wizards 4 (van Ass-FG, Akashdeep-FG) bt Rays 0.
The Hindu
First win for UP Wizards against Ranchi Rays in seven games
UP Wizards win 4-0 at home to leapfrog to third position of the Hockey India League table with 20 points.
UP Wizards players celebrate after their winning their Hockey India League match against Ranchi Rays in Lucknow on Thursday. (HIL)
Hosts Uttar Pradesh Wizards outplayed former champions Ranchi Rays for the first time in seven meetings when they beat them comprehensively 4-0 in the Hockey India League here on Thursday.
Before drawing the last game 0-0 at Ranchi this season, Wizards had five losses against the Mahendra Singh Dhoni-owned Ranchi Rays. Thursday’s turnaround at the Major Dhyanchand Stadium wasn’t expected by many.
But after winning 6-2 against defending champions Jaypee Punjab Warriors in their last game in Chandigarh last week, Wizards were right on target from the very start, not allowing the rivals any space inside the penalty circle.
The win helped the Suresh Raina co-owned side leap-frog to the third position with 20 points from seven games. They still have three games in hand before the knockouts and one more win can put them into the semi-finals.
Dutchman Seve Van Ass and Akshdeep Singh scored both field goals (as per rules a field goal counts for two). The tie was also a big challenge for two greats of Indian coaching --- Roelant Oltmans (UP Wizards) and Harendra Singh (Ranchi Rays) who shook hands before start of play.
Wizards could have score more had they converted two penalty corners, one each in the first two quarters but captain VR Raghunath’s hits were tackled by Rays’ custodian Tyler Lovell.
The deadlock was broken by Van Ass in the 37th minute in style. After receiving a quick pass from Edward Ockenden inside the circle, the Dutchman just pushed it to the right corner of Lovell, who was anticipating a straight hit.
The lead inspired the Wizards to press hard as they had to win to go up the points table. A couple of good saves, including one in the last quarter by Wizards custodian PR Sreejesh, helped the side deny Ranchi Rays a chance to level the score.
Tension soared in the last quarter as Ranchi Rays accelerated their game, launching a foray of attacks but good defence by the Wizards kept them at bay. Just when spectators had started celebrating the home team’s win, young Akshdeep Singh hit the back of the net by pulling a reverse hit into the left top corner of Ranchi Rays’ goal.
Hindustan Times
UP Wizards beat Ranchi Rays 4-0, climb to third spot
LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh Wizards produced a scintillating performance to beat two-time title holders Ranchi Rays 4-0 and jump to the third spot in the points table of the Hockey India League on Thursday.
Field goals by Seve van Ass (37th minute) and Akashdeep Singh (60th) sealed the much-needed five points for the home side. The result kept UP Wizards in the hunt for the semi-finals.
When the two teams met earlier in the league, they split points with a 0-0 draw in Ranchi.
Placed at the bottom of the table, and three more games left in the pool stage, it was a must-win game for the home side to keep their semi-final hopes alive.
While both the teams went into the first break locked in a stalemate, Uttar Pradesh Wizards got off the blocks in the second quarter pressing hard in the circle and it paid off when they won the first penalty corner in the 19th minute.
But the chance went begging when Argentine drag-flicker Gonzalo Peillat's strike was padded away by Ranchi Rays' goalkeeper Tyler Lovell.
Arthur van Doren fetched the home team their second penalty corner in the 26th minute but captain VR Raghunath's flick was blocked by Ranchi Rays' first rusher Manpreet Singh. The first half ended with the score reading 0-0.
A sloppy defence at the heart of the striking circle saw Ranchi Rays concede a field goal when Seve van Ass was left unmarked. The Dutchman made no mistake in taking advantage of the opportunity as he tapped the ball past Tyler Lovell in the 37th minute, giving the home team a 2-0 lead.
Ranchi Rays came close to equalising in the 40th minute when Flynn Ogilvie took a shot at the post after a good assist by Timothy Deavin but an alert PR Sreejesh ensured that the Uttar Pradesh Wizards kept the lead.
The final quarter witnessed the Ranchi Rays hold much of the ball possession but they also lost their video referral when they asked for a penalty corner due to a stick tackle in the circle but the referral went against them.
Uttar Pradesh Wizards' defence was rock solid today as they denied the visitors any chance of scoring though the Ranchi Rays had as many as 12 circle entries.
Akashdeep Singh struck another field goal with just seconds to go for the final hooter to give his side a 4-0 win.
The Times of India
Hampstead and Westminster prepare for battle with Beeston
Hampstead and Westminster's Will Calnan in action. Credit Tim Reder
The battle for a spot in the top four gathers pace this weekend with Hampstead and Westminster playing host to rivals Beeston in the Men’s Hockey League Premier Division on Sunday.
Beeston’s win over Loughborough Students helped them overtake Hampstead into fourth spot last weekend, but the London club get an immediate chance to take it back when they do battle.
“It’s a pretty big game for both teams,” said Hampstead and Westminster captain Toby Roche. “It’s a great opportunity for us to jump them again, after our slip up at the weekend.”
Hampstead and Westminster lost out by a single goal to Beeston earlier in the season, and Roche added: “We were disappointed to lose to them back in November. We had lots of chances but we couldn’t find the back of the net.
“They defended well and took their chances, so we want to get one back on them – and we’re looking forward to it.”
Elsewhere, second-placed Holcombe head to third-placed Surbiton and will be looking for a repeat of the 3-2 win they secured earlier in the season.
Strugglers Canterbury – who are ninth with just one win to their name so far – are at home against Reading who need to start picking up points if they are to avoid a relegation scrap. They also face Surbiton on Sunday, a game rearranged after last weekend’s postponement.
Bottom of the table Loughborough Students host East Grinstead as they continue their battle to climb out of the basement, while Brooklands MU have a tough task as they play leaders Wimbledon at home.
The Men’s Conference East title race continues to be close, with five teams separated by just four points.
Second-placed Teddington have a great chance to take the lead in the Men’s Conference East when they play host to bottom club Indian Gymkhana on Sunday.
Sevenoaks will want to secure a good win at Brighton and Hove to hold on to first place. Meanwhile, Southgate entertain West Herts and will be looking to hold on to third spot. Cambridge City, who visit Wapping on Saturday evening, and Richmond, who host Oxted, also need wins to keep their title hopes alive.
It’s top versus bottom in the Men’s Conference North, with the University of Durham playing Leek at Maiden Castle and looking to make it 13 out of 13 this season.
Elsewhere, second-placed Bowdon go to mid-table Deeside Ramblers, while Cannock are hosting Sheffield Hallam with both teams in danger of relegation.
Without a win since October, the University of Bristol host second-placed Team Bath Buccaneers in the Men’s Conference West on Sunday. A win for the University could see them move off the bottom of the table, while Buccaneers will want the points to maintain their push for promotion.
And top of the table Cardiff and Met – who didn’t play outdoors last week as they were playing in the EuroHockey indoor competition – resume their league campaign with a home game against Old Georgians.
FIXTURES
Saturday, February 18
Men’s Premier Division
Canterbury v Reading 18:00
Surbiton v Holcombe 18:00
Men’s Conference East
Wapping v Cambridge City 17:30
Sunday, February 19
Men’s Premier Division
Canterbury v Surbiton 14:00
Hampstead and Westminster v Beeston 14:00
Loughborough Students v East Grinstead 14:00
Brooklands MU v Wimbledon 14:00
Men’s Conference East
Brighton and Hove v Sevenoaks 13:00
Teddington v Indian Gymkhana 13:30
Richmond v Oxted 14:00
Southgate v West Herts 14:30
Men’s Conference North
Olton and West Warwicks v Doncaster 13:30
Deeside Ramblers v Bowdon 13:30
Univ of Durham v Leek 14:00
Cannock v Sheffield Hallam 14:00
Oxton v Preston 14:30
Men’s Conference West
Univ of Birmingham v Cheltenham 12:30
Isca v Chichester 12:30
Cardiff and Met v Old Georgians 12:30
Univ of Bristol v Team Bath Buccaneers 13:00
Fareham v Univ of Exeter 13:30
England Hockey Board Media release
Crucial clash for bottom two
Reading in defensive action against Clifton Robinsons. Credit Peter Smith
The bottom two in the Investec Women’s Hockey League Premier Division, Bowdon Hightown and Reading face a crucial clash this Saturday with both sides desperate for points to avoid the threat of relegation.
Bowdon Hightown – who dropped to ninth last week after losing to Slough and being leapfrogged by the Berkshire side – drew 1-1 with bottom of the table Reading earlier in the season, and will be desperate for a win so they can climb back out of the danger zone.
Meanwhile Reading are still searching for their first win of the season and are six points adrift.
“It has been tough for us, especially losing the players we have,” said Georgia Boother, club captain of Reading who lost the services of GB Olympic gold medallists Alex Danson, and Helen and Kate Richardson-Walsh.
“We’ve had to do some serious rebuilding, but the girls have worked so hard and we have been unlucky to lose some of the games we have.
“Anything can happen in the last few weeks of the season, but we’re being realistic. Hopefully we can get a few wins, make it off the bottom and then survive the relegation play-offs.
“The indoor programme gave the team a massive boost; we played well and Georgina Bathurst was top scorer, so that did wonders for their confidence.”
Elsewhere, Leicester travel to Kent to take on Canterbury late on Saturday afternoon, with both teams in need of the points to boost their hopes of reaching the top four and a spot at the Finals Weekend.
The University of Birmingham stepped up into the top four after last week’s win over Reading, and they will need to be on top form this weekend as they play host to unbeaten leaders Surbiton.
Third-placed Clifton Robinsons welcome Holcombe to Coombe Dingle, with the visitors aiming to take a win and reclaim their place in the top four, while Clifton could move up to second with a win.
In the Investec Conference West, leaders Stourport are preparing to host third-placed Olton and West Warwicks on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Buckingham could go top if they beat fourth-placed Trojans and Stourport lose.
Leaders Wimbledon entertain St Albans in the Investec Conference East, while second-placed Sevenoaks are on the road, visiting West Herts on Saturday.
And in the Investec Conference North, Brooklands Poynton are at home against Loughborough Students. Currently top of the table, Brooklands are going for their tenth straight win in the league, while Loughborough have not won since October.
FIXTURES – Saturday, February 18
Investec Women’s Hockey League
Investec Premier Division
Univ of Birmingham v Surbiton 12.30
Clifton Robinsons v Holcombe 13.00
Bowdon Hightown v Reading 13:45
Canterbury v Leicester 16:00
Investec Conference East
Hampstead and Westminster v Southgate 13:30
Wimbledon v St Albans 14:00
Harleston Magpies v Chelmsford 14:00
West Herts v Sevenoaks 14:00
Northampton Saints v Cambridge City 14:15
Investec Conference North
Brooklands Poynton v Loughborough Students 11:45
Belper v Ben Rhydding 12:00
Beeston v Univ of Durham 12:00
Liverpool Sefton v Wakefield 12:30
Sutton Coldfield v Timperley 14:00
Investec Conference West
Olton and West Warwicks v Stourport 12:00
Bristol Firebrands v Oxford Hawks 12:00
Buckingham v Trojans 12:00
Swansea City v Isca 12:00
Exe v Gloucester City 14:00
FIXTURES, Sunday, February 19
Investec Conference East
Southgate v Northampton Saints 12:00
England Hockey Board Media release
Deciding weekend for KLHC and THT
By Jugjet Singh
National defender Baljit Singh playing for UniKL.
THE top-two teams in the Premier Division of the Malaysia Hockey League (MHL) face a deciding weekend to claim the League title which is expected to go to the wire.
Charity Shield holders Kuala Lumpur Hockey Club (KLHC) and double champions Terengganu Hockey Team (THT) are tied on 30 points after 12 matches, and THT only lead the standings on goals -- all 20 of them.
Friday, THT must beat Maybank while KLHA are in the same boat against Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) -- for a final face-off on Sunday for the title.
Both teams can't afford any slip-ups as Maybank and UniKL have had a yo-yo season by losing to weaker sides, but holding or beating better teams.
"I am preparing the team for the Maybank match tomorrow (Friday) and even though they are fifth (with five wins and one draw from 12 matches) they have shown their abilities by beating UniKL (4-1 on Wednesday).
"We can't afford to lose any points, if we want to defend our title on Sunday against KLHA," said THT coach Sarjit Singh.
Maybank were hammered 7-3 by schoolboys TNB Thunderbolts, but they also have a 2-2 draw against Tenaga Nasional and the win against UniKL to indicate that teams can't take them lightly.
KLHC must also win against another erratic team UniKL to challenge for the title.
"As I said before, I believe the title will be won at the last day of the League and its heading towards that provided we keep our heads over water against UniKL tomorrow (Friday)," said KLHC team manager Ahmad Anuar Sham.
Meanwhile, Oman and Egypt will train in Malaysia for the World League Round Two in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on March 4-12 -- Reports S.S. Dhaliwal.
They are expected to arrive by Feb 19, and train in Malaysia until March 1 before heading for Dhaka.
Malaysia, Fiji, Oman and Bangladesh are in Group A while China, Egypt, Fiji and Sri Lanka are in Group B. The finalists will play in the World League Semifinals which is a Qualifier for the 2018 World Cup in India.
FRIDAY: Terengganu HT v Maybank (Malacca, 5pm), UniKL v Kuala Lumpur HC (KLHA, 6pm), Tenaga v SSTMI (KLHA, 8pm), TNB Thunderbolts v SSTMI (SSTMI, 5pm).
SUNDAY: Tenaga Nasional v UniKL (KLHA, 6pm), Kuala Lumpur HC v Terengganu HT (KLHA, 8pm), SSTMI v TNB Thunderbolts (SSTMI, 5pm), Maybank v UiTM-KPT (Malacca, 6pm).
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
T'GGANU HT 12 9 3 0 66 9 30
KLHC 12 9 3 0 55 18 30
UNIKL 12 7 2 3 34 16 23
TENAGA 12 6 4 2 35 19 22
MAYBANK 12 5 1 6 27 33 16
THUNDERBOLTS 12 3 1 8 20 42 10
UITM-KPT 12 0 2 10 15 64 2
SSTMI 12 0 2 10 7 58 2
Jugjet's World of Field Hockey
Same old story as Terengganu and KLHC fight for title
by S. Ramaguru
KUALA LUMPUR: Defending champions Terengganu are back on familiar ground after losing steam in their bid to retain the Premier Division title in the Malaysia Hockey League (MHL).
After leading the standings in the early stages, the Terengganu side lost ground to Kuala Lumpur Hockey Club (KLHC) two weeks ago.
But when KLHC were held to a 3-3 draw by Tenaga on Wednesday, the Terengganu team found themselves back in the lead on better goal difference after beating TNB-Thunderbolt 3-0.
Both Terengganu and KLHC have 30 points – with just two matches to go.
This has been a familiar story for both teams in the last three seasons as they head into the last two matches.
Terengganu play Maybank at home today while KLHC meet UniKL.
On Sunday, Terengganu and KLHC go head-to-head in what should be the title showdown.
It doesn’t look good for KLHC, though, as Terengganu have won the title the last three times.
But KLHC team manager Annuar Sham Kamar is undaunted, saying “we cannot afford to drop a point”.
“They have a 20-goal difference on us. So there’s no way we can match that. Only winning our two matches – against UniKL and Terengganu – will give us the title,” he explained.
“Last year, we were in a similar position ... we lost our penultimate match and handed the title to Terengganu, although we played them last.
“I do not want to see that happening again. We must take full points today against UniKL and then be prepared for the battle on Sunday.”
One thing that KLHC will be hoping for is that Terengganu’s shaky form when playing against teams in KL will continue today.
The east coast side drew 1-1 with Tenaga Nasional and 0-0 with UniKL – and that handed the advantage to KLHC.
Terengganu coach Sarjit Singh is aware of his team’s poor form when playing in KL, but he promised that “we are ready for the crunch”.
“We have learned from the two draws. We are still very much in the title fight and it is for us to lose it.
“There will be pressure ... that’s for sure. Anyway, we expect tough matches against Maybank and KLHC.
“At this stage, the team who can hold their own and handle the pressure will have the edge. We are determined to win our fourth league title,” he said.
The Star of Malaysia
Verga enjoying Malaysia Hockey League experience
AH&BC Amsterdam’s Valentin Verga says he is loving the organised chaos of the Malaysian Hockey League as he continues his bid for glory with Terengganu.
The reigning champions stayed in the race to play in the February 26 final – recently changed from February 24 – with a 3-0 win over the TNB Thunderbolts.
It is a far cry from the Dutch Hoofdklasse but it is an experience that he really enjoys.
"Everyone here is very technically skilled,” he told hockey.nl. “A match is a pretty unstructured mess sometimes. Terrangganu is the reigning champion and the pressure is quite high.
“I am being deployed as a central striker [rather than his usual position in midfield] and they thought brought in one of the highest-scoring strikers in the world!"
Verga is the sole Dutch player in the league, part of a handful of foreigners that also includes a smattering of Argentine, Korean and Pakistani players. And he says that it can grow into something bigger.
"There is now less attention than the Hockey India League but they are working hard to enlarge this league. And why not? Kuala Lumpur is a very outgoing city. You are pampered here, everything is arranged for you. It's great fun!"
Euro Hockey League media release
Ards Ready For European Indoor Challenge
Ards are heading for Lithuania for the Eurohockey Indoor Club Trophy, facing 6 games in a 3-day period. They will be up against teams from Lithuania (Gintra Strekte University), Ukraine (Sumchanka), Scotland (Dundee Wanderers), England (East Grinstead), France (Lille) and Sweden (Partille). Aiming to retain their second tier status, the Irish girls need to finish sixth from the seven teams, but even that will be a tough task, against teams much more accustomed to the indoor form of the game.
Ards captain, Caroline Adams is well aware of the challenge. "The teams from Lithuania and Ukraine have come down from the first division and we anticipate they will be very tough opposition on the first day. The French, Scottish and English teams remain in the second division from last season although they are different sides from the ones we faced last year. We have been keeping an eye on the English indoor league and we were all able to watch East Grinstead perform in the impressive arena of the 'Super Sixes' hosted in Wembley last year, so hopefully we've picked up a thing or two. Probably the biggest game for us will be against the Swedish champions, Partille, who were promoted from the third division last year. We have played them on two previous occasions in Europe, losing to them in Lisbon but beating them in Budapest so we anticipate it will be a closely contested match on Sunday."
The Ards squad brings a mix of youth and experience, with Irish International Chloe Brown playing in her fifth European campaign, and expected to be an influential figure. "Each year we have shown that we are getting better and competing with the bigger nations." said Chloe. "The second division is a big step from the third where we have had success before and the teams we will be facing will have just finished their respective indoor leagues where they have gained competitive experience against other clubs over a period of time. Unfortunately we don;t have the same intense competitive preparation, but we are looking forward to the challenge". At the other end of the scale, Royal School Armagh head girl, Alana Doyle, is one of four debutants, and faces a tough baptism in her first European adventure. "I am really looking forward to the opportunity to play in the tournament but I'm aware that the indoor game is very strong in other European countries and I am relishing the chance to pit my skills against top-class players and teams." said the 18-year-old.
For live results click here.
Irish Hockey Association media release
Harlequins on another marathon mission
Alan Good
Last Saturday morning, Naomi Carroll left her home in Cratloe, Co. Clare and pointed the car in the direction of Cork, where her Harlequins team saw off Pembroke Wanderers 3-0 to keep their EY Hockey League title challenge alive.
After a quick shower and change, Carroll and her team-mates then headed for Belfast, where they overnighted before facing Pegasus in an Irish Senior Cup semi-final on Sunday. The northerners’ own game the day before had fallen victim to a frozen pitch, offering them the advantage of freshness in a tie that went the distance. But following a tense 1-1 draw, Carroll and Quins did the necessary in the penalty shootout to reach a first national cup final in 15 years.
Two draining games and around 900km of travel later, Carroll was back home in Clare late on Sunday night, the exhaustion at least offset by the satisfaction of success. But she and her team-mates will have to summon another massive effort this weekend as they head to Belfast again for two more big clashes, underlining the commitment required to compete at this level.
First up tomorrow are a Pegasus side motivated not only by that galling Cup loss but the need to get their own EYHL house in order. Then on Sunday, Harlequins face their Belfast namesakes, who are battling to avoid the drop and have some form of their own after a vital 3-2 win over Ulster Elks in a basement three-pointer last time out. The upshot is that six points for Stephen Dale’s third-placed charges could see them atop the standings Sunday night, depending on how Monkstown and UCD fare in their away days at Loreto and Ulster Elks respectively.
Double weekends are also on the cards for three of the country’s top men’s teams. EYHL title contenders Banbridge and Monkstown meet tomorrow before both are in Irish Senior Cup semi-final action just over 24 hours later, against surprise package Corinthian and UCD respectively. The Dublin students will also have a game in their legs — a potential relegation six-pointer against Instonians — from the day before.
The certainty that one or both of Bann and Monkstown will drop points — and with Three Rock Rovers and Lisnagarvey in the same boat as they meet at Grange Road — means opportunity knocks in a congested top five for Cork Church of Ireland. Neil Welch’s men recovered from an ISC disappointment at Bann with a counter-attacking success at UCD last weekend, and they welcome struggling Railway Union to Garryduff tomorrow.
Irish Examiner
Grange out to close the gap in men’s National League 1
Grange have the chance of closing the gap on Bromac Kelburne at the top of the men’s National League 1 if they can see off Western Wildcats in a catch-up game at Auchenhowie.
The Edinburgh side trail Kelburne by five points, but with two games in hand a victory would narrow the gap to two.
The sides met on Scottish Cup business before the festive break, that day Grange emerged 2-0 victors.
A cautious David Knipe, Grange`s coach, said: "We played a close game in the cup and the first games after the indoor season are always interesting."
The first half of the season saw Grange put in a much more consistent performance compared to previous seasons, they are the only unbeaten side and have dropped only two points, there should be no reason why this form should not continue.
Further, Grange have rattled in 32 goals in their seven games to date with Cammie Fraser, Frank Ryan, Luke Cranney and Callum Milne all making their contributions.
The Wildcats have a very young side in transition who are in eighth place in the table, but they will be looking to crash the Grange bandwagon.
Watsonians take on fifth placed Grove Menzieshill in the other fixture hoping to return to winning ways. The Edinburgh side have had a bizarre record so far, newly promoted they stormed to the top of the division with three straight victories, then followed five defeats in a row and they now sit in seventh place.
The Watsonians management will doubtless be anxious to reverse this trend in their first home encounter of the second half of the season.
Meanwhile, the Taysiders started the season as title aspirants, but the blight of inconsistency has appeared - in the final weekend prior to the winter shutdown they went down 4-2 to Uddingston and dropped out of the top four.
Scottish Hockey Union media release
Scottish Hockey and PSL continue to work in partnership
Scottish Hockey is delighted to announce that PSL Team Sports will continue as Scottish Hockey’s official kit supplier. It furthers the excellent partnership that has formed over the last four years of working together.
For the next four years, PSL Team Sports will continue to have exclusive rights to supply Scottish Hockey branded Canterbury playing and non-playing kit to all of Scottish Hockey’s senior and junior international squads, including players, coaches and management staff.
PSL Team Sports supplies an extensive merchandise range for men, women and juniors, including a variety of polo shirts, t-shirts, shorts, fleeces, stadium pants, jackets, hoodies, base layers, and much more via its online shop and retail outlet in Hillington, Glasgow. PSL Team Sports also designed a unique shirt especially for umpires officiating at hockey matches in Scotland. They also offer umpires the exclusive opportunity to buy Canterbury branded ‘off the field’ kit and clothing.
David Sweetman, CEO of Scottish Hockey, said, “We’re absolutely delighted to continue partnering with a premier teamwear brand in the form of Canterbury, and PSL Team Sports, who are a leading supplier of teamwear and equipment in Scotland. We’re very much looking forward to continuing our work with PSL Team Sports.”
Rennie Keith, Director of PSL Team Sports, said, "We are absolutely delighted to cement our successful partnership with Scottish Hockey for a further four years with the signing of this new agreement. It has been a great partnership, which will grow over the years to come.
“The agreement is enhanced even further by the news that Canterbury and PSL are the Official clothing partners of Team Scotland for the Gold Coast 2018 Games and we are all looking forward to making the team stand out from the crowd with unique and innovative made to order kit"
Andy Tennant, Scottish Hockey Head of Performance, said, “The importance of high quality performance teamwear for our players cannot be understated and for the last four years Scottish Hockey has benefitted from excellent teamwear, both on and off the field. I’m delighted Scottish Hockey will continue to develop our excellent relationship with PSL.”
Please visit the PSL Team Sports websitefor more information. You can also follow PSL Team Sports on Facebookand PSL Team Sports on Twitter
Please visit the Canterbury website for more information. You can also follow Canterbury on Facebook and Canterbury on Twitter
Scottish Hockey Union media release