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All the news for Sunday 1 May 2017

India outclass New Zealand

India were a class above New Zealand in their 3-0 win in Day 2 of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.

Drag-flick specialist Harmanpreet Singh scored a brace as India bounced back from a lacklustre first quarter performance to triumph 3-0 over New Zealand .

New Zealand and India went into the match in search of a first win in the tournament.

The Kiwis played to a 1-1 draw against defending champions and World No 2 Australia in Saturday’s opening encounter while the Indians, placed 6th in the FIH world Rankings, emerged with a 2-2 draw after a gruelling session against Great Britain.

New Zealand had the upper hand over India in the last two editions of the tournament – winning 2-1 respectively in the 2015 and 2016 editions.

The World No 8 Black Sticks took control of the game in the early proceedings, earning the first penalty corner six minutes into the match but Nick Ross powerful drive from top of the D was cleared by veteran goalkeeper P. Sreejesh, hardly posing any threat to the Indians as the first quarter ended in a  scoreless stalemate.

Led by SV Sunil, who earned his 200th international cap today, India’s attacking machinery got its act together in the second quarter with a series of quick counter attacks, earned three penalty corners and broke the deadlock.

Mandeep Singh deflected a bouncing ball past Richard Joyce in the 23rd minute via open play to go 1-0 ahead and Harmanpreet Singh swept a powerful drag flick three minutes before the end of the quarter to double the score.

The Black Sticks pressed on for goals in the third quarter but were curtailed in their plans by a fortified Indian defence and could not make any headway, unlike in the first quarter.

On the opposite end, Roelant Oltman's India continued where they left off by scoring the third goal in the 47th minute off a fourth penalty corner through Harmanpreet and were back in the grove three minutes later with two more penalty corners but could not make any breakthrough.

India now takes on nine-time champions Australia on Tuesday.

The Kookaburras defeated India 4-0 in the 2016 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup final.

Unofficial tournament site

GB edge Japan

Great Britain went on a scoring spree to defeat Japan 5-3 at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.

The Britons lived up to their promise of making a strong comeback against the Japanese following an exciting 2-2 draw against India on Saturday and did not waste much time as they camped inside the Japanese half.

And goal No 1 came just three minutes into the match via a good breakthrough from David Goodfield.

The midfielder relayed the ball to a waiting Barry Middleton who tapped it past goalkeeper Suguru Shimmoto to give Britain an early lead.

While Middleton played a role in Britain’s opening goal act, it was Goodfield who carved his name on the scorecard in 12th minute to double the lead after picking a pass from Jonathan Griffith to slot the ball past an onrushing Suguru.

The Japanese, the lowest ranked team here at world No 16, surprised Britain with a quick raid two minutes later and reduced the deficit through Kenta who sidestepped goalkeeper Harry Gibson to slot the ball into the net.

However, the joy in the Japanese camp was short lived as barely a minute later Sam Ward made it 3-1 from a goalmouth melee.

Suguru was replaced by Takashi Yoshikawa but let in a soft goal from Tom Carson in the 32nd minute from their third penalty corner attempt.

But what was expected to be an easy night for Great Britain turned out to be a nightmare as Japan came back blasting goal No 2 in the 39th minute via Tanaka while Kota Watanabe made it 4-3 by the 49th minute from open play.

Great Britain, however, escaped with dignity and pride intact on a cold night, thanks once again to the brilliant fightback from Alan Forsyth – the man who threw a spanner in India’s plans following a late goal to force a 2-2 draw on Saturday - with a 52nd field goal .

Forsyth’s goal ensured Great Britain won 5-3 for their first win and now brace for the biggest test against Stephen van Huizen’s Malaysia on Tuesday.

Unofficial tournament site

Hit for a sixer

Day two of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup saw fixtures pitting teams from Asia against the rest of the world.

And after the three matches, it was the rest of the world that had the bragging rights as only India registered a 3-0 win over New Zealand.

Japan went down 3-5 to Great Britain while hosts Malaysia went down 1-6 to Australia.

For the second consecutive day matches were affected by adverse weather conditions with the match between Great Britain and Japan delayed by an hour.

Hosts Malaysia had no answer to attacking display of the Australians.

Two Australian players scored hat tricks - Tom Craig (11th, 38th, 44th) and Trent Mitton (23rd, 27th, 58th).

Malaysia scored their consolation through a penalty stroke converted by Faizal Saari in the  42nd minute.

"It was a far better performance then against New Zealand," said Aussie coach Colin Batch.

"But we need to improve on our consistency and the one day break will be handy before we take on India."

As for Malaysia, it was a rather lethargic performance coupled with loose marking.

"We were poor today but then again Australia are a class above," condensed Malaysian coach Stephen van Huizen.

"It's back to the drawing boards as we cannot make such defensive errors against Great Britain whom we meet next."

Unofficial tournament site

Stats Speak: Kookaburras sixth tennis score triumph over Malaysia in AZ history

By B.G.Joshi (Sehore-Bhopal, India)

It was 36th occasion when tennis score was registered in AZ Cup Intl. Hockey. Australia beat hosts Malaysia by 6-1, Tom Craig and Trent Mitton both have netted hat trick. Previously in 1983, 96, 2001, 2014(league) and 2014(final) Australian routs Malaysian, on Sunday it has happened sixth time.

India also beat mighty Kiwis 3-0, which is creditable win in 21st century for India against New Zealand. India has suffered 3-7(worst defeat) in 2011 AZ by Kiwis. Here are the statistical highlights of day-2:

Head to head: India-New Zealand

Fieldhockey.com

Great Britain's men put five past Japan


Sam Ward celebrates for Great Britain against Japan

Great Britain's men's team earned a high-scoring win against Japan in their second game of the Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia.

Bobby Crutchley's side got off to a flier, and were 3-1 up at the end of the first quarter thanks to Barry Middleton, David Goodfield and Sam Ward.

Japan valiantly fought their way back into the match and at one point were within a goal of snatching a point, but Tom Carson and Alan Forsyth each scored their second goals in two days to seal victory.

Having drawn 2-2 with India on Saturday, it has been a very positive start to the tournament for the British side.

With England and Scotland both preparing for World Cup qualifiers in London this summer, and Wales with a player in the British squad for the first time in recent years, there is a huge summer of hockey ahead for the home nations.

It was Middleton who set the tone very early on, deflecting home a reverse stick cross with only three minutes gone. In only his second game of this new cycle, it was pleasing for Middleton to show his class and get on the scoresheet early.

If Middleton adds experience, then the likes of David Goodfield are very much the new blood of the group, and on only his second appearance for GB, he rounded the keeper from fellow newbie Jonty Griffiths' cross.

Japan pulled one back quickly through Kenta Tanaka, but GB were not to be put off; Griffiths again the provider for Sam Ward, who tapped home for 3-1 on 14 minutes.

Crutchley's side then converted a penalty corner for 4-1, with Tom Carson scoring again, having notched against India 24 hours earlier.

But Japan continued to fight back, with Tanaka again on target and then Kota Watanabe making it 4-3 with eleven minutes left.

However Crutchley's side quickly put paid to Japan's hopes of a comeback, Forsyth firing home for 5-3 after Ward's assist.

GB's next game in this tournament is on Tuesday 2nd May against Malaysia at 1:35pm UK time. Click here for more details on this event.

Great Britain 5 (Barry Middleton 3, David Goodfield 12, Sam Ward 15, Tom Carson 32, Alan Forsyth 52)
Japan 3 (Kenta Tanaka 14, 38, Kota Watanabe 49)

Great Britain: Harry Gibson (GK), Brendan Creed, Liam Sanford, Ollie Willars, Henry Weir, Ian Sloan (c), Barry Middleton, Mark Gleghorne, David Goodfield, Tom Carson, Alan Forsyth
Subs (used): Sam Ward, Phil Roper, Chris Griffiths, Jonty Griffiths, James Gall, Dan Kyriakides
Sub (unused): Chris Wyver (GK)

England Hockey Board Media release

Kookaburras dominate Malaysia 6 - 1 at Azlan Shah

Hat tricks from Tom Craig & Trent Mitton

Holly MacNeil



The Kookaburras second match of the Azlan Shah Cup took place in Ipoh, Malaysia tonight, with the Australians defeating the hosts 6 – 1 thanks to hat tricks from both Tom Craig and Trent Mitton.

After a couple of early attempts on goal it was Tom Craig who gave the Kookaburras the early edge, with some team work from Matt Dawson leading to a field goal from Craig in the 11th minute of play.

Malaysia almost tied the score with a penalty corner 19 minutes into the game, but the goal from Razie Rahim hit the post before going in and was disallowed.

Minutes later and the Kookaburras doubled their lead with Trent Mitton tapping the ball into goal to take the score to 2 – nil. Mitton was at it again four minutes later with a second field goal slotting into the net after the Malaysian defence lapsed.

Eight minutes into the second half, and Josh Pollard set up a shot on goal for Tom Craig who easily put it into goal for his second of the game.

Following a penalty corner opportunity in the 42nd minute, Malaysia were on for a penalty stroke which Faizal Saari took easily getting Malaysia on the score board in the process and taking the score to AUS 4 – 1 MAS.

Right on the buzzer of three quarter time, Tom Craig made it a hat trick with a penalty corner goal giving him the trifecta and Australia a healthy 5 – 1 lead going into the final break of the game.

With just two minutes to go in the match Trent Mitton nailed a field goal to get another hat trick for the Aussies, leaving the game finishing with a AUS 6 – 1 MAS score line and giving the Kookaburras their first win of the Azlan Shah Cup.

Kookaburras head coach Colin Batch said: “I think the most significant thing for me was our connections between the various lines were really strong tonight. We tried to improve that in the days leading up to the tournament, and we couldn’t quite get there last night, but tonight they were very good.

“Our defensive work and tackling was the basis of regaining the ball and generating goal opportunities. It was really pleasing to get a lot of field goals; there was some excellent complimentary play within the group. Tonight is only one win, but it’s a good basis for the group for the games ahead.”

The Kookaburras next play India on Tuesday, May 2 at 4.05pm AWST / 6.05pm AEST.

KOOKABURRAS 6 (3)
Tom Craig 11, 38, 45 (FG, FG, PC)
Trent Mitton 23, 27, 58 (FG, FG, FG)

MALAYSIA 1 (0)
Faizal Saari 42 (PS) 

Kookaburras squad v Malaysia
Athlete (Hometown/State)
Andrew Charter (Canberra, ACT) 124/0
Ben Craig (Lane Cove, NSW) 14/2
Matthew Dawson (Killarney Vale, NSW) 68/9
Jeremy Hayward (Darwin, NT) 75/26
Aaron Kleinschmidt (Melbourne, VIC) 15/5
Edward Ockenden (Hobart, TAS) 286/65
Flynn Ogilvie (Wollongong, NSW) 49/13
Joshua Pollard (Melbourne, VIC) 15/0
Matthew Swann (Mackay, QLD) 148/6
Jake Whetton (Brisbane, QLD) 120/48
Tom Wickham (Morgan, SA) *plays for WA 8/2

Used Substitutes
Tom Craig (Lane Cove, NSW) 30/13
Jeremy Edwards (Hobart, TAS) 14/1
Tyler Lovell (Perth, WA) 81/9
Trent Mitton (Perth, WA) 108/47
Andrew Philpott (Melbourne, VIC) 31/1
Matthew Willis (Tamworth, NSW) 22/2
Dylan Wotherspoon (Murwillumbah, NSW) *plays for QLD 32/7

Kookaburras Azlan Shah Match Schedule
2 May: AUS v IND 4.05pm AWST / 6.05pm AEST
3 May: AUS v GBR 6.05pm AWST / 8.05pm AEST
5 May: AUS v JPN 6.05pm AWST / 8.05pm AEST
6 May: Finals

Hockey Australia media release

Aust outclass Malaysia

By Jugjet Singh

AUSTRALIA hammered Malaysia 6-1 in the Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh Sunday.

Only Faizal Shaari managed to score against the Aussies off a penalty stroke in the 42nd minute, while the six were scored by hat-trick heroes Tom Craig (11th, 38th, 44th) and Trent Mitton (23rd, 27th, 58th).

In another match, drag-flick specialist Harmanpreet Singh scored a brace as India bounced back from a lack lustre first quarter performance to beat New Zealand 3-0 Zealand in the 26th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup yesterday.

However, the matches were delayed by an hour again, as a lashing thunderstorm hit Ipoh and the Malaysian match was played after Press Time.

New Zealand and India went into the match in search of a first win in the tournament.

The Kiwis played to a 1-1 draw against defending champions and World No 2 Australia in Saturday’s opening encounter while the Indians, placed sixth on the FIH world Rankings, emerged with a 2-2 draw after a gruelling session against Britain.

Led by S.V. Sunil, who earned his 200th international cap yesterday, India’s attacking machinery got its act together in the second quarter with a series of quick counter attacks, earned three penalty corners and broke the deadlock. 

Mandeep Singh deflected a bouncing ball past Harry Gibson in the 23rd minute via open play to go 1-0 ahead and Harmanpreet Singh swept a powerful drag flick three minutes before the end of the quarter to double the score.

Harmanpreet nailed the third in the 47th.

India coach Roelant Oltmans said: "I am happy with the results. I only prefer to win. But I am not happy with the way we performed although we did expect New Zealand to play a different way. After the first quarter we had completely dominated the game."

In another match, Britain pulled off a stunning 5-3 victory over Japan, thanks to a late goal from Alan Forsyth.

The Britons lived up to their promise of making a strong comeback against the Japanese following an exciting 2-2 draw against India on Saturday.

RESULTS: India 3 New Zealand 0, Japan 3 Britain 5, Australia 6 Malaysia 1.

MONDAY: REST DAY.

TUESDAY: India v Australia (4pm), New Zealand v Japan (6pm), Malaysia v Britain (8.30pm).

STANDINGS

           P  W  D  L  F  A  Pts
AUSTRALIA  2  1  1  0  7  2  4
INDIA      2  1  1  0  5  2  4
BRITAIN    2  1  1  0  7  5  4
MALAYSIA   2  0  1  1  2  7  1
N ZEALAND  2  0  1  1  1  4  1
JAPAN      2  0  1  1  4  6  1

Jugjet's World of Field Hockey

It’s a painful lesson

by S. Ramaguru


Out of my way: Australia’s Joshua Pollard (right) in action against Malaysia’s Faiz Helmi Jali in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup match in Ipoh yesterday. — RONNIE CHIN/The Star

IPOH: Defending champions Australia taught Malaysia a goal-scoring lesson, strolling to a convincing 6-1 win at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament.

It was a no-contest from the onset with the Australians dominating play and being clinical in front of goal.

Tom Craig and Trent Mitton hit a hat-trick each to put Australia, who were surprisingly held to a 1-1 draw by neighbours New Zealand in their opening match on Saturday, on top of the six-team standings on four points.

Malaysia are last on one point from the opening 1-1 draw with Japan.


 
It took Australia only 11 minutes to break the deadlock with Craig connecting with a Matt Dawson pass to beat Malaysia goalkeeper S. Kumar.

Soon after, the Malaysians had three penalty corners. But each time their execution was poor and failed to get the desired result.

Australia then punished Malaysia for their profligacy with two quick goals. Mitton scored in the 23th minute and added his second in the 27th minute.

Craig was on target twice in the 38th and 44th minutes to complete his hat-trick. Mitton followed suit by scoring his third in the 58th minute.

Malaysia’s consolation strike came in the 42nd minute through a penalty stroke conversion by Faizal Saari.

Earlier, Harmanpreet Singh scored a brace to lead India to their first win after thumping New Zealand 3-0.

India, who drew 2-2 with Britain on Saturday, had seven penalty corners and they converted two through drag flick specialist Harmanpreet in the 27th and 47th minutes.

Mandeep Singh had earlier given India the lead after he deflected a bouncing ball past goalkeeper Devon Manchester in the 23rd minute.

“I am happy with the result, but not the way we performed. But there is always room for improvement,” said India coach Roelant Olthmans.

In another match, Britain defeated Japan 5-3 in the highest scoring game to date.

Barry Middleton (3rd), David Goodfield (12th), Sam Ward (15th), Tom Carson (32nd) and Alan Forsyth (52nd). Japan replied through Kenta Tanaka (14th and 38th) and Kota Watanabe (49th).

The Star of Malaysia

India outplays New Zealand

s2h team


Photo: Shah Dekson

A brace of penalty corner goals by Junior World Cup gold medallist Harmanpreet Single and a magical number from Mandeep Singh helped India outplay first-quarter-dominant New Zealand for a fluent 3-0 win to inch towards medal claim in the 26th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, Ipoh, Malaysia.

India piled up a 2-0 lead at half time and then the second goal of Harmanpreet Singh ended the hopes of New Zealand, who dominated the first quarter despite unable to move the scoreboard due to excellent goal keeping by PR Sreejesh. Yesterday, India squandered lead twice to draw Great Britain 2-2.

India's dominance can be gauged by the fact that it had 7-2 advantage in getting penalty corners, though India could manage only two successfully.

Keeping up its attacking spree, Manpreet Singh Sr led India built up 2-0 lead at half time in the opening match of the second day of 26th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh.

The last edition finalist had anxious moments in the first half when New Zealand, aided with long passes, penetrated Indian citadel often, and came close to take the lead at least thrice.

New Zealand's early penalty corner posed India a real threat, but Sreejesh stretched his left leg sufficiently to deflect a low flick.

Sreejesh twice stopped field attempts from NZ's left flank attack.

India on the other hand were relentless in attacks, but missed out on a couple of sitters.

However the breakthrough came when Mandeep Singh, lurking near goalie, could gauge the height of Chenglensana's hit from deep left edge of D, and deflect into goal (1-0). Shortly later, Harmanpreet Singh sent whiplash of a grounder to the far corner of the net to enlarge the lead (2-0). He got two more chances in the first half, but on both occasions the stop was not perfect, perhaps the new turf playing traunt.

The sides changes sides with India establishing 2-0 lead

Stick2Hockey.com

India outmuscle Black Sticks in Malaysia


Photo: Megat Firdaus, PMF Images

The Vantage Black Sticks Men have been defeated 3-0 by India in their second match at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia.

Both teams started strongly in the first quarter before India snatched the ascendancy just towards the end of the half and kept the pressure on for the rest of the match.

India opened the scoring in the 23rd minute when Mandeep Singh showed quick reflexes to deflect a high shot at goal past goalkeeper Devon Manchester.

The Black Sticks saw the deficit double just minutes later after Harmanpreet Singh ripped a low and hard flick into goal from a penalty corner.

New Zealand fought hard in the second half but struggled to sustain any momentum in the face of a determined Indian defence.

India sealed the result in the 47th minute with Harmanpreet’s second penalty corner strike, this one soaring into the roof of the net.

The Vantage Black Sticks have a rest day at the tournament tomorrow before going up against Japan at 10pm on Tuesday night (NZT), with live coverage on SKY Sport 4.

In other fixtures at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup today, Japan play Great Britain before Australia take on hosts Malaysia.

VANTAGE BLACK STICKS 0
INDIA 3: (Harmanpreet Singh 2, Mandeep Singh)
Halftime: India 2-0

Hockey New Zealand Media release

Black Sticks defeated by India at the Azlan Shah men's hockey tournament

By David Leggat


Blacksticks' Stephen Jenness. Photo / Photosport

The Black Sticks have a day to ponder after being well beaten by India in their second match at the Azlan Shah men's hockey tournament in Malaysia last night.

The world No 8 Black Sticks had started the tournament well, sharing the points with second-ranked Australia in their opener.

However India were too good last night, winning 3-0, and dominating in the important statistical departments.

They had 11 shots on New Zealand's goal to four by the Black Sticks; they had 67 percent possession on the opposition half and had a 7-1 penalty corner advantage.

India scored through Mandeep Singh, with a clever twist and turn to put a volley home in the second quarter, before two Harmanpreet Singh drag flicks at penalty corners buried New Zealand.

They were not without their chances.

Experienced attacker Stephen Jenness had one fine attempt early on which was just wide and Sam Lane had a firm penalty corner shot blocked.

Next up are Japan on Tuesday night.

The New Zealand Herald

Black Sticks men go down to India at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup


Devon Manchester played his 100 and 101st Black Sticks game on Sunday. ROBERT KITCHIN/FAIRFAX NZ

The Black Sticks men have gone down 3-0 to India in their second match at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia.

Mandeep Singh opened the scoring for the hosts midway through the second quarter with a deflection, and Harmanpreet Singh then doubled the lead just before halftime with a powerful drag flick.

Harmanpreet then added another in the same fashion early in the fourth quarter to seal the result.

Earlier on Sunday (NZ time), the Black Sticks began their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Australia, in a game delayed by two hours due to a lightning storm.

Goalkeeper Devon Manchester was playing his 100th test in that match, and was outstanding, shutting down several Australian chances, but allowed Tom Craig to fire home a field goal two minutes into the second half.

Dominic Newman struck back with eight minutes remaining to level the scores, but there was no winner to be had.

The Black Sticks' tournament continues with matches against Japan on Tuesday (at 10pm), Malaysia on Thursday (at 12.30am), Great Britain on Friday (at 8pm), then a playoff on Saturday.

AT A GLANCE

Black Sticks 0 lost to India 3 (Harmanpreet Singh 2, Mandeep Singh)

Q1: 0-0; Q2: 0-2; Q3: 0-2

Stuff

Harmanpreet's brace guides India to 3-0 win over New Zealand

IPOH (Malaysia): Defender Harmanpreet Singh converted two penalty corners as India stamped their authority over New Zealand with an assertive 3-0 victory in the 26th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament on Sunday.

As it happened: India v New Zealand

Following a 2-2 draw against Great Britain in the opening game on Saturday, India now have four points from two outings.

Mandeep Singh opened the Indian account with a fine deflection in the 23rd minute before Harmanpreet produced two fine drag-flicks to penetrate the Black Sticks defence.

After allowing the experimental New Zealand team to have three shots at the goal in the first quarter, the Indian team settled down to dominate the match thereafter.

The Indian game today was not disturbed by the afternoon showers and lightening, which have been a feature of the tropical weather this season.

India's tournament-opener on Saturday started two hours late due to lightening, pushing the day's entire schedule back.

Today, the first signs of match-disrupting lightening occurred soon after the Indian players went off the pitch on completion of their game.

It was New Zealand, who earned the first penalty corner in the sixth minute, but it could not pose any danger as the low shot went straight to goalkeeper P.R. Sreejesh, who kicked it out of the circle.

As the Indian defence took time to settle down, New Zealand had two early shots at the citadel before Akashdeep Singh took an ambitions try from the top of the circle in the 10th minute, only to see his reverse drive soar high over the cross-bar.

Two minutes later, Manpreet Singh sent a diagonal ball into the circle to S V Sunil, who shot wide with only goalkeeper Devon Manchester to beat.

India broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute when Chinglensana Singh sent a reverse shot from top of the box into the goalmouth, where Mandeep did exceptionally well to deflect the shoulder high ball past the goalkeeper.

Harmanpreet then came into the picture with a drag-flick off the first penalty corner. The stinging shot went into the left corner of the board to make it 2-0 in the 27th minute.

India forced two penalty corners in as many minutes just before half-time, but were stopped on both occasions.

In the 30th minute, on India's fourth penalty corner, New Zealand defended stoutly as Sardar Singh picked up the ball behind Harmanpreet and tried to keep up the pressure by flicking the ball into the scoring zone.

Playing in his 200th international today, Sunil had a chance to make an entry on the scoresheet five minutes after half-time when he was again in a one-on-one position with the goalkeeper, but ended up flicking wide of the mark.

Akashdeep took a try from a very narrow angle in the 39th minute, but the shot went over the bar.

Harmanpreet came back to round off the Indian scoring with another penalty corner conversion, this time sending a soaring drag-flick into the top corner of the net in the 47th minute.

With Harmanpreet in fine nick, he was allowed to take the shot on six of India's seven penalty corners, although the push could not be stopped on two occasions.

Rupinderpal Singh only took the last of India's penalty corners and his shot was blocked by the Black Sticks goalkeeper. India now take on nine-time champions Australia on Tuesday at 13:35 (IST). The Kookaburras defeated India 4-0 in the 2016 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup final.

The Times of India

Australia coast to big win, Britain overcome resurgent Japan

IPOH (Malaysia): World champions Australia and Great Britain posted contrasting victories in the 26th Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament hear on Sunday.

Australia, the defending champions here, coasted to a 6-1 victory over hosts Malaysia, who were denied a goal on video review, while the Britons had to defend stoutly to prevail 5-3 over a resurgent Japan, whose young team is being prepared for the 2020 Olympic Games.

Japan, the hosts, will get to play in the Olympics in 2020 after a long gap.

Both Australia and Great Britain now have four points from two outings each, just like India, who earlier on Sunday blanked New Zealand 3-0 in their second outing of the tournament.

Australia are on top of the standings on basis of their superior goal difference, followed by India and Great Britain. Like New Zealand, Malaysia and Japan are on one point each from two round-robin league matches.

Australia rode on goals from Tom Craig (11th, 38th and 44th minutes) and Trent Mitton (23rd, 27th and 58th), while Malaysia's lone strike came through a penalty stroke conversion by Faizal Saari (42nd).

The Malaysian goal that was cancelled on video referral would have brought them 1-1 parity in the second quarter.

Field goals from Barry Middleton (third minute), David Goodfield (12th) and Sam Ward (15th) gave Great Britain a 3-1 lead in the first quarter, while Japan's lone goal came through Kenta Tanaka in 14th minute against the run of play.

The Britons increased the lead to 4-1 in the 32nd minute when Tom Carson capitalised on a penalty corner, but their own defence was stunned through two goals from the speedy Japanese outfit.

Tanaka fired his second goal in the 38th minute and Kota Watanabe shot home in the 49th to bring Japan within one goal of the fancied rivals.

Alan Forsyth's open play strike in the 52nd minute ensured that Great Briton could breathe easy toward the end.

The Times of India

Sunil completes 200th international match

He achieved the milestone in India’s second match at the 26th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup against New Zealand.


S.V. Sunil achieved the distinction of playing in his 200th international match against New Zealand in Ipoh.  Photo Credit: K. Murali Kumar

India hockey team forward SV Sunil on Sunday achieved the distinction of playing 200th international match for the country.

He achieved the milestone in India’s second match at the 26th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup against New Zealand.

The Coorg-born Sunil made his international debut during India’s successful outing at the 2007 Asia Cup in Chennai. The following year, he was a part of the Indian team that won the silver medal at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in 2008.

The high point in his career came in the 2011 Champion’s Challenge where he scored three goals.

Regarded as one of the fastest men on the hockey pitch, his ability to dribble past defenders with a lot of pace makes him a treat to watch.

A key member of the silver medal winning Indian team at the 36th FIH Champions Trophy in London last year, Sunil has been one of the most reliable players in the Indian team.

The 27-year-old was also conferred with the Asian Player Of The Year 2016 by the Asian Hockey Federation. His other distinctions include the gold medal at 2014 Asian Games, a bronze at the 2015 World League Final, two Olympic appearances in 2012 London Games and 2016 Rio Games.

Md. Mushtaque Ahmad, Secretary General of Hockey India (HI) congratulated Sunil on his achievement.

“SV Sunil has had an illustrious international career and his role is vital for the Indian senior men’s team which has climbed up ranks in world ranking (No.6 in the world) over the past few years.

“I congratulate Sunil on achieving this new milestone and I wish him the very best for his future endeavours. He has been an inspiration to many young hockey players in the country and I am sure he will continue to inspire many more with his on-field heroics,” said Ahmad.

The Hindu

Harmanpreet can be the best drag-flicker in the world: Oltmans

IPOH (Malaysia): Coach Roelant Oltmans says India's penalty corner shooter Harmanpreet Singh has the ability to become the best drag-flicker in the world.

Praising Harmanpreet, who scored two goals in Sunday's 3-0 victory over New Zealand in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, Oltmans said the young penalty corner justified the faith reposed in him.

Harmanpreet was allowed to take most of the penalty corners despite the presence of the dependable Rupinder Pal Singh in the team. "Harmanpreet is a fantastic drag-flicker he proved it with two fantastic goals. If he continues to play this way, he can become the number one drag flicker in the world in a couple of years," said Oltmans

"I see his tremendous potential in the team's training sessions. He needs to be given the opportunity and exposure to improve," the coach said.

Harmanpreet came into goal-scoring action today after striker Mandeep Singh had deflected a bouncing shot from Chinglensana Singh into the New Zealand goal in the 23rd minute.

Harmanpreet's two penalty corner conversions came in the 27th and 47th minutes with varied shots. The first one was a grounder that went into the boards and the second a rasping flick that soared into the net.

Oltmans agreed that Harmanpreet did not score too many goals in the Junior World Cup that India won in December. "Harmanpreet is young and he needs to perform under pressure. He needs to be at his best and the only way to test him is let him take more penalty corner shots," he said.

Harmanpreet on Sunday took six out of India's seven penalty corners against New Zealand. The push was not stopped on two of these penalty corners.

Rupinderpal took the shot only on the last of India's seven penalty corners.

Oltmans said holding Rupinder Pal back was not part of a plan, just an attempt to boost Harmanpreet's confidence. "Both Rupinder and Harmanpreet are fantastic drag- flickers. We have some strategy to take our decisions. We all know that Rupinder was by far the No. 1 drag-flicker and top scorer in the Asian Champions Trophy six months ago," he said.

Rupinder had scored 11 goals to spur India's title- clinching show in the Asian Champions Trophy.

Oltmans said he was afraid that Sunday's afternoon game could be disrupted by the weather, which on Saturday delayed the start of the match against Great Britain by two hours and interrupted the players' preparations. "We were a bit afraid about rain and lightning again today. But thankfully there was none of it during our match," said Oltmans.

A heavy downpour, accompanied by lightening, began soon after the Indians had walked off the pitch. The second match started an hour behind schedule.

The Times of India

India aiming for an improved show against Australia

IPOH: Buoyed by an impressive start, a confident India will be aiming to take their performance a notch higher against defending champions Australia in the third round-robin league encounter of the Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey tournament on Tuesday.

After being held to a 2-2 draw by Great Britain on the opening outing, the Indian strikers produced a better performance in the 3-0 victory over New Zealand, who had earlier held World champions Australia to a 1-1 draw in their first fixture.

Using the tournament to fine-tune their squad after the induction of several youngsters, Australia gave an exhibition of their powerful game by outplaying hosts Malaysia 6-1 on Sunday.

The India-Australia encounter, featuring the two highest ranked teams in the six-nation competition, is billed as the marquee match of the preliminary league.

"We want to continue improving. That's the objective we had before coming to Ipoh, but we surely want good results," says Indian team coach Roelant Oltmans.

He expressed satisfaction with the effort of his strikers in the second outing after a critical comment on their inability to create goal-bearing chances in the opening match.

"One of the most important things for me is finding the cohesion between the forwards and the midfield. We have now managed to do that," said Oltmans.

"Our forwards played a different game against New Zealand compared to the first outing, but then it also has to do something with who's the opponent," he said.

"We must look at improving further in the next outing."

Oltmans said he wanted the defenders to review their performance of the first quarter against New Zealand, when the Indian defence seemed erratic and allowed leeway to rival strikers in the Indian territory.

"To be honest, I wasn't happy with the first quarter performance. I do not know why we made so many mistakes in that period," said Oltmans.

The coach, however, was pleased that India did not allow a single shot at their goal after the first quarter.

"When we cut out the mistakes of the first quarter, we were completely in control of the match," he said.

The feature of the Indian victory were the seven penalty corners India earned in the last match and the two goals Harmanpreet Singh scored with aplomb, which even drew praise from Australian coach Colin Batch.

"The penalty corners seem a real strength of the Indian game. It can be a real threat," said Batch, a long-serving star player of the Australian teams in his playing days.

"Australia versus India will be a competitive game and the highlight of the day's fixtures," said Batch, pleased that his combination had got into rhythm against Malaysia.

"In international hockey, if you are not happy with your performance in one match, you have to change within 24 hours," said Batch, delighted that his strikers had got into goal- scoring action.

In an exhibition of dominant hockey, seasoned Australian strikers Tom Craig and Trent Mitton scored three goals each to leave Malaysia stunned.

World No 6, India are expected to earn a title showdown with Australia, who are nine-time winners of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup and ranked second in the world even after their disappointing show in the 2016 Olympics.

Last year's runners-up, India have won this title five times, including the being joint champions with South Korea in a rained-off final in 2010. That was the last of India's title triumphs in Ipoh.

"It is premature to start taking about the final. There are three teams on four points and we are striving to earn a place in the title contest," said Batch.

Great Britain are the third team on four points from two outings, but Australia lead the standings on basis of their superior goal different, following by India and Britain in that order.

The Times of India

Railways women beat Haryana to defend title


The Haryana team after winning the silver medal in Rohtak on Sunday. Hockey India

Chandigarh: Railways defended their title after beating hosts Haryana in the final of the senior women’s hockey National Championship (Division A) in Rohtak today.

Madhya Pradesh beat Association of Indian Universities 3-1 to take the bronze medal.

In the title match, Railways struck first, Neha scoring in the third minute. Haryana equalised three minutes later with a field goal by Reet.

In the 25th minute, Railways went ahead through a Navneet Kaur strike. In the 50th minute, Neha converted a penalty corner to get her second. Railways easily held on to secure the title for a fourth successive year.

Punjab boys win bronze

Punjab left behind their disappointing semifinal loss to win their first medal at the junior men’s Division A event in two years in Bhopal today. Punjab, who were beaten in the shootout by Odisha yesterday, had to go through another shootout; but this time, they overcame SAI 3-0 to win the bronze medal. The match had ended 2-2 in regulation time, Dilpreet Singh’s 68th-minute equaliser saving Punjab from another defeat.

Punjab took the lead in the 11th minute through Varinder Singh. But strikes from Abahas Sharma (29th) and Sahil (63rd) gave SAI the lead. Just as it seemed Punjab would return home empty-handed, the team’s top-scorer, Dilpreet, converted a penalty corner. In the shootout, Punjab missed their first before scoring the next three, while their goalkeeper saved the first three SAI attempts.

Odisha defended their title with a 6-0 hammering of Steel Plant Sports Board in the final.

The Tribune

RSPB retains title

ROHTAK: Defending champion Railways Sports Promotion Board (RSPB) retained the title after a comprehensive 3-1 win over Hockey Haryana in the final of the women’s National hockey championships ‘A’ Division here on Sunday.

Led by Rio Olympian Anuradha Devi and with almost half its side comprising of national team regulars, Railways was favourite to win the tournament and it did not disappoint. Dominating all the way through, Railways played an attacking game and went ahead in the third minute through Neha.

Haryana, though, fought back and levelled three minutes later through Reet but that was to be its only success on the day.

Coached by former India captains Pritam Siwach and Sita Mehta, Railways was far superior to its opponent and once the players got settled, it was all about keeping possession and scoring enough to stay ahead. Navneet Kaur added a second goal in the 25th minute and Neha doubled her individual score, converting a penalty corner in the 50th minute to wrap up the title and end as her team’s top scorer in the tournament.

The Indian team regulars will now get together for the upcoming series against New Zealand next month. In the play-off for third spot, Hockey Madhya Pradesh beat Association of Indian Universities (AIU) by an identical margin. Shivani Singh, Ritu Singh and Neeraj Rana struck the goals for the winner while Jyoti Gupta, the team’s top-scorer, scored the lone goal for AIU.

The results (final):

Railways 3 (Neha 2, Navneet Kaur) bt Haryana 1 (Reet); Third-fourth playoff: Madhya Pradesh 3 (Shivani Singh, Ritu Singh, Neeraj Rana) bt AIU 1 (Jyoti Gupta).

he Hindu

Surbiton crowned the Investec Women's Cup Winners


Surbiton women Cup winners 2017

Two outstanding solo goals from Hollie Webb and Hannah Martin helped Surbiton lift yet another piece of silverware as they beat Clifton Robinsons to win the Investec Women’s Cup.

They were aided by two goals from Giselle Ansley and a tap in by Emily Atkinson as Surbiton took the title from last year’s champions and secured their second trophy in a week, following on from their success in the Investec Women’s Hockey League Finals last weekend.

Coming off the back off the back of that, Surbiton knew they would be in for a test during their last domestic game of the season against a side they narrowly beat 4-3 in their final league game last month.

The result means they end the season on the highest possible note and provides the perfect preparation for their forthcoming EuroHockey Club Champions Cup.

After a cautious start to the game from both sides it was Sarah Haycroft who had the first clear sight of goal, her wicked strike well saved down low by Sarah Ellis.

Ansley then opened the scoring in the 16th minute as she squeezed the ball into the net despite the best efforts of a diving Ellis, with the ‘keeper also unlucky with the second goal after a fine save fell at the feet of Atkinson six minutes later.

Webb then made it three just before half-time with a magical effort, weaving her way in and out of defenders down the right wing before bundling the ball over Ellis and into the net.

Clifton threatened to find a way back early in the second half but Ansley scored her second of the game in the 52nd minute with another wicked flick.

Martin then produced her own spectacular goal as she once again showcase her unbelievable ball control to devastating effect before smashing the ball into the top corner via a deflection.

However, in spite of her delight at both Webb scoring her first goal of the season and the result, captain Haycroft believes her team still have work to do before they begin their European campaign.

The midfielder said: “I feel ecstatic. Obviously on the back of last weekend’s victory in the league finals it is great to come back here and win again.
“But we are quite hard on ourselves and there are still thing we think we can improve - there are still things we need to work on in training.

“We are definitely excited for the Euros. Momentum is such a powerful thing and coming off the back of last week’s league final victory this is the best preparation.

“Hollie went on a bit of a dribble and scored a bit of a wonder goal which was great. It was an excellent goal and hopefully she can score many more for us.”

Surbiton(3) 5
Ansley (16, 52), Atkinson (22), Webb (34), Martin (68)

Clifton Robinsons (0) 0

England Hockey Board Media release

Investec Women's Trophy and Vase Finals


UoN trophy Winner

University of Nottingham are the 2017 Investec Women’s Vase Final champions after overcoming Alderley Edge in a dramatic shootout following a truly memorable game.

Few could have predicted the chaos that was to ensue in a quiet opening quarter of an hour before Annabel Hebb put Alderley Edge in front, capitalising on a rebound following a save by Martha Baker.

Their lead didn’t last long however as the game approached half-time it was UoN who were in charge thanks to goals from Abby Pelling, Milly Bennett and Emma Hardern, the latter with a fiercely struck flick from a penalty corner.
Alderly pulled one back just before the interval through Caitlin Polley and this seemed to inspire the side from Cheshire as they pulled level in the 40th minute with Hebb’s second of the game.

The topsy-turvy nature of the game then continued as UoN took the lead once again through Emma Berry before Amanda Bennison once again levelled the scores with 15 minutes to play. Surprisingly however there were no further scorers, meaning the game was to be decided on strokes.

And it was Bennett who ensured her side were the ones to leave London victorious following two great saves by Baker, who said the result was the perfect end to a great season for the team, despite her nerves prior to the shoot-out.

“I’m not a fan of shuffles but we did it, we won! It’s just a great end to a great season after we won the league as well - it's the perfect way to end a great three years at uni.”

Investec Women's Trophy Final

University of Nottingham (3) 4
Pelling (21), Bennett (26), Hardern (32), Berry (49)

Alderley Edge (2) 4
Hebb (16, 40), Polley (35), Bennison (55)

UoN win 3-1 on a penalty shoot-out


Chichester Vase Winners

Chichester were first on the score sheet with super sub Demelza Peake making an instant impact giving her side the lead. It was end to end and with five minutes left of the first half Amersham and Chalfont Alice Keddy reverse strike goes just wide of the goal.

Amersham & Chalfont came out of the blocks hard in the second half and were rewarded for their efforts as Jess Reus threw everything into her reverse strike to go in at the far post. Both teams gave it their all with Amersham coming closest hitting the post. It finished 1-1 which meant for a penalty shoot out where Chichester won in sudden death 4-3.

Verena Sambel was ecstatic; “We don’t things easy for ourselves do we! It’s something else playing here, our boys were here last year and we were all here supporting them and now this year it’s our turn to win. Little old Chichester, a voluntary run club and we are coming home with the vase it is fantastic achievement, I am so happy for them.”

Investec Women's Vase

Amersham & Chalfont (0) 1
Reus (42)

Chichester (1) 1
Peake (12)

Chichester win on penalty shoot out 4-3

England Hockey Board Media release

Women's Knockout Masters Finals


Sevenoaks O45s Cup 2017

Sevenoaks opened the day being crowned Investec O45s Cup in a thrilling final against Redland UWE Wereys.

Sevenoaks drew first blood with Julie Nicholson finding the back of the goal after only four minutes on the clock but the green army were quick to respond and Michelle Aldridge brought it back for her side.

Both sides pressed on but Sevenoaks had the pace down the left which led to Kelly slotting it home on the 18th minute. It was a great final as both sides playing some great hockey but it was Jacqui Hudson from Sevenoaks that sealed the Kent sides win in the 63rd minute.

Michele Harvey from Sevenoaks said; “It feels absolutely amazing. Our team is such a wonderful team we have all been playing for many years together and that what makes it so special. I have been playing for over 33 years and it’s just amazing the girls are fantastic.

“Ever since the finals have been held at Lee Valley it has made it so important to get there, it’s been extra special that we can play here. And I think that’s what spurs the girls on so much and we love it here.”

Investec Women’s O45s Cup 

Sevenoaks (3) 4
Nicholson (4, 34) Kelly (18) Hudson (63)

Redland UWE Wereys (1) 1
Michelle Aldridge (13)


Canterbury O35s women

Investec Women’s O35s Cup

Olton & West Warwkshire (2) 3
Walton (18) Webb (22) (57)

Canterbury (1) 3
Mel Clewlow (33) (49) (70)

Canterbury win on penalty shoot out 4-2

A hatricks for Canterburys Mel Clewlow helped her team bounce back to win a thrilling shoot out against Olton & West Warwkishire  in the Investec Women’s O35s Cup.

London 2012 medallist Sally Walton opened the scoring with a wonder reverse strike whizzing past the keeper. Canterbury had their chances but could quite finish, after a great through ball from Walton to Webb who faked left to danced round the keeper neatly slotting the ball into the goal to give Olton a 2-0 lead. 
Canterbury fought on and just before half time they were rewarded for their efforts after a scrap in the goal Mel Clewlow experience came out top to pull one back for her side.

The second half Canterbury forced the Olton keeper to work hard but couldn’t deny Clewlow her second goal of the match making it 2-2.

Olton’s Webb put her team out in front tapping it past the keeper giving her team the lead; Canterbury didn’t shy away with XX making some outstanding saves.  In the dying minutes Clewlow got her hatrick from a penalty corner, darting round the defence to strike the back board forcing a shoot out!

Canterbury won the shoot out 4-2 to be crowned Investec Women’s O35s Cup winners!

Jackie Laslett said; “It feels amazing to be champions, we came here last year and lost in the finals and we were absolutely gutted. But this year was ours, it feels amazing especially to come back from 2-0 down quite early on in the game when we felt that we had a lot of the possession and to fight back from 2-0 down was brilliant. In the last minute to draw level to take it to shuffles is amazing. Everyone that took part in the shuffles from Canterbury was absolutely brilliant; they kept their cool and performed brilliantly.”


O35s Barnes Shield Women

Investec Women’s O35s Shield

Barnes (0) 2
Doyle (54) Fox (67)

Wisbech Town (0) 0

Barnes beat Wisbech Town 2-0 to take the victory of the Investec O35s Shield at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis centre.

The first half Barnes applied the pressure to Wishbech, but goal keeper Lorraine Wallis denied them any chances of a goal. It was only in the second half when Triona Doyle broke deadlock beating the Wallis to give her side the lead. Liz Fox soon increased her sides lead to give them the victory 2-0. 


Taunton Vale O45s Plate

Investec Womens O45s Plate

Taunton Vale (0) 1
Binding

Driffield (0) 1
Tuplin

Taunton Vale won on a penalty shoot-out 2-1

Taunton Vale beat Driffield in a thrilling penalty shoot out to win the Investec Women’s O45s Plate.

Both teams had their chances but couldn’t do enough to get on the score sheet. When Tuplin lifted the ball over the keeper to her side the lead that gave both sides an injection of energy as Taunton fought back, Donovan just lost her footing forcing her shot to go just wide of the goal. It wasn’t long till the pink army pulled one back as Binding found the back of the goal.

As the final whistle went both sides took their place for a shoot out for Taunton Vale to win on the final shot of the shoot out to be crowned victorious.

Driffield will still go away smiling after one of their players, Helen Hough was popped the question on the pitch by her now fiancé James Taylor. We want to wish them all the best!


O35s Harleston Magpies trophy

Investec Womens O35s Trophy

Harleston Magpies 8
Stott (5, 29, 63), Wheelhouse (23, 27, 42), Griffin (46), Tibbenham (60)

Timperley 0

Hat-tricks from Anouska Stott and Angie Wheelhouse ensured Harleston Magpies left the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre as the Investec Women’s Over 35s Trophy champions.

Facing a Timperley side who had won six games in order to reach the final, Harleston made the perfect start as Stott tucked away her first in the fifth minute.

The lead was doubled in the 23rd minute by Wheelhouse, who then added her second four minutes later with Stott making it 4-0 at half-time. Wheelhouse then finished off a superb hat-trick in the 42nd minute before Teresa Griffin scored with virtually her first touch since coming on not long after.

Jose Tibbenham also got her name on the scoresheet with ten minutes to play before Stott rounded off her hat-trick after being denied on numerous occasions by the unflappable Rachel Small in the Timperley goal.

The victory left Louisa Greenacre feeling very happy and the captain was effusive with her praise of her two forwards.

“Anouska and Angie have been dependable all year with their goals and today everyone saw why we made the final. They are exceptional players but their goalkeeper also played really well, I’d like to praise her.”

England Hockey Board Media release

Three Rock Rovers Win EY Champions Trophy


Photo Credit: Adrian Boehm

Mitch Darling’s 60th minute goal saw Three Rock Rovers land the EY Champions Trophy for the first time as they saw off Monkstown 2-1 at Grange Road.

His goal made it 2-0, adding to Kevin Mullins’ first half opener, and while Davy Carson pulled one back, Rovers saw out the tie for a 13th successive win and the silverware.

They had edged through Saturday’s semi-final against Lisnagarvey – as did Monkstown against Banbridge – after a shoot-out with both ties ending 3-3.Sunday’s final was a more controlled affair. Three Rock hit the front in the 15th minute when Jody Hosking cut loose down the left-hand side before firing a backhand shot to the right post where Kevin Mullins was on hand to guide home.

Monkstown replied by winning a penalty corner but could not trap it and, otherwise, spent most of the half on the back foot as Rovers enjoyed long spells of possession. James Walker was twice denied by David Fitzgerald at close quarters while the Town goalkeeper also kept out Hosking and Ross Canning.

Geoff Cole had the only shot in earnest for Monkstown but skewed his effort over the bar. Town stepped things up considerably in the third quarter with Andrew Ward making a number of strong runs, one of which just evaded Davy Carson’s dive.

Luke Madeley was required to twice clear off the line from a Guy Sarratt drag-flick and a Geoff Cole follow-up. Rovers thought they had a second goal on the three quarter hooter when Madeley dragged in from their first penalty corner but it was ruled out as the initial stop was ruled not to have left the scoring circle before the shot came in.

But three minutes after the resumption came Darling’s moment of magic, bursting through from halfway before unleashing a powerful shot past international team mate Fitzgerald. Monkstown again summoned a big fightback and got on the board when Lee Cole’s crash ball was turned in by Carson. He went close to grabbing another soon after but Jamie Carr got down well to prevent the equaliser.

From there, Rovers held on for the victory, their first in the Irish Hockey League’s history having won the forerunner to the competition back in 2008 – the old Irish Club Championships.

It earns them a place in the Euro Hockey League’s KO16 next Easter, meaning they will play in Europe twice as they also won the National Indoor Trophy.

Banbridge, as EY Hockey League champions, will be the other Irish side in the Euro Hockey League and will contest ROUND1 next October.

Reflecting on the men’s EY Hockey League season, Mike McKerr, Country Managing Partner, EY Ireland said: “As a firm, EY is extremely proud to be here today supporting Irish hockey at the culmination of these months of training, hard work and commitment from everyone involved since last September. We are committed to building the highest performing and most diverse teams, and when it comes to leadership, teaming and developing winning strategies, there is a great deal to learn from professional sports people such as these players. We are also committed to gender equality and diversity – something which is at the heart of hockey – and therefore plays an important role in our continued sponsorship of the EY Hockey League.”

Earlier, Cookstown came from 2-0 down in the first four minutes to beat UCD 4-3 and move back up to the EY Hockey League. Andrew Fogarty and Jeremy Duncan had UCD flying early on and they held the lead into half-time but goals in quick succession from Paul Thompson, Keith Black – a penalty stroke – and Ryan Millar swapped the lead around. Duncan levelled from a corner but Greg Allen scored a sublime winner for the Co Tyrone side. 

Three Rock Rovers 2 (K Mullins, M Darling) Monkstown 1 (D Carson)

Monkstown: D Fitzgerald, N Dee, K Smith, D Carson, A Ward, D Cole, S Cole, G Cole, K Lynch, K Kenning, K GoodSubs: L Cole, G Groves, J Lynch, G Sarratt, S Hyland, R Quirke, M Maguire

Three Rock Rovers: J Carr, L Madeley, M Darling, J Hosking, H Morris, M Samuel, K Mullins, B Walker, D Kane, R Nair, D WalshSubs: R McCollum, G Ringwood, R Canning, H McMahon, J Walker, C Empey, S O’Brien  

Weekend results

Men EY Champions Trophy

Semi-finals: Monkstown 3 (D Carson 2, L Cole) Banbridge 3 (O Magee 2, E Magee), Monkstown won 6-5 in shoot-out;

Three Rock Rovers 3 (K Mullins, L Madeley, R Canning) Lisnagarvey 3 (T Cockram, D Nelson, A Williamson), TRR won 3-2 on shoot-out

Final: Three Rock Rovers 2 (K Mullins, M Darling) Monkstown 1 (D Carson)

Promotion-relegation playoff: Cookstown 4 (P Thompson, K Black, R Millar, G Allen) UCD 3 (J Duncan 2, A Fogarty)

Women EY Champions Trophy

Semi-final: UCD 0 Loreto 0, UCD win 2-0 in shoot-out;

Hermes-Monkstown 6 (A O’Flanagan 3, N Evans 2, C Watkins) Cork Harlequins 2 (C Perdue, K Bateman)

Final: UCD 1 (E Russell) Hermes-Monkstown 1 (A O’Flanagan), UCD win 3-0 in shoot-out

Promotion-relegation playoff: Belfast Harlequins 3 (L Geddes, R Johnston, L Johnston) Lurgan 1 (K Burns) 
 
Irish Hockey Association media release

UCD Win EY Champions Trophy For Historic Treble


Photo Credit: Adrian Boehm

UCD completed a perfect season as Clodagh Cassin’s perfect shoot-out record saw them edge out Hermes-Monkstown to yet another title at Grange Road.

It adds the EYHL Champions Trophy to the EY Hockey League title won earlier in April and the Irish Senior Cup last month. Each time, they have had to beat their south Dublin rivals to get to the prize, eliminating from the cup in a shoot-out, too, while the league was settled by two Lena Tice goals in the closing quarter of the game.

To get to Sunday’s final, UCD had beaten Loreto in a shoot-out with Cassin keeping a clean sheet while Hermes-Monkstown had a far easier 6-2 win over an understrength Cork Harlequins.

In the decider, the students made the first major incision when they worked the ball into the circle which popped up the way of Deirdre Duke. Her backhand volley thumped the base of the post and a series of follow-up shots were somehow scrambled away by Liz Murphy’s defence.

But, in O’Flanagan, Hermes-Monkstown have the runaway top-scorer with 40 goals prior to the final and she snapped up the one chance to fall her way in the first half. As so often, Nikki Evans was the creator with a delightful cut inside from the right wing, leading Lena Tice and Leah Ewart on a merry dance before flipping the ball into the path of O’Flanagan who swiped home.

UCD continued to create the stronger chances with Gillian Pinder clean through only to flick wide while Jane O’Brien could not control an Emma Russell pass when well placed.


Credit: Adrian Boehm

Hermes-Monkstown won a pair of corners to close out the half and earned another pair two minutes into the second half. None drew a clear shot at goal though Sarah Patton did sustain a nasty knee injury from the fourth set piece.

The students continued to push forward and when Duke won their first corner, they were back on terms. It was not a thing of beauty as the first phase was blocked down and Tice’s shot was off course but Emma Russell sniffed a chance and pounced on the ball at the right post to guide it in.

Russell then stung Murphy’s palm after a brilliant Pinder run. It re-awoke Hermes-Monkstown and they created some top openings but reverses from Evans and one particularly spectacular strike from Sinead Loughran fizzed by the post.

Chloe Watkins had two strong strikes repelled by Clodagh Cassin as the pressure built minute on minute. UCD rode out that spell, however, and had the best chance to win the tie in the closing five minutes when they won their second penalty corner.

Both Duke and Katie Mullan saw their strikes blocked, sending the game to a shoot-out.

As with a day earlier in the semi-finals, Cassin proved a superstar. Against Loreto, she kept a clean sheet in the shoot-out and she did so once again in the final, denying Watkins, Ellen Curran and Rosie Carrigan. With Sarah Twomey and Mullan doing the business in attack, it was down to Orla Patton to seal the deal and complete a famous treble.

Reflecting on an epic EY Hockey League season, Mike McKerr, Country Managing Partner, EY Ireland said: “As a firm, EY is extremely proud to be here today supporting Irish hockey at the culmination of these months of training, hard work and commitment from everyone involved since last September.

“We are committed to building the highest performing and most diverse teams, and when it comes to leadership, teaming and developing winning strategies, there is a great deal to learn from professional sports people such as these players. We are also committed to gender equality and diversity – something which is at the heart of hockey – and therefore plays an important role in our continued sponsorship of the EY Hockey League.”

Earlier in the day, Belfast Harlequins avoided relegation with a 3-1 win over Lurgan in the EYHL promotion-relegation battle. Lucy Geddes gave them the perfect start with a second minute goal before Rachel and Laura Johnston put them three to the good. Kerrie Burns got one back but could not affect the outcome of the tie.

UCD 1 (E Russell) Hermes-Monkstown 1 (A O’Flanagan), UCD win 3-0 on shoot-out

UCD: C Cassin, S Twomey, A Russell, L Ewart, O Patton, E Russell, S Patton, G Pinder, L Tice, K Mullan, D Duke

Subs: N Cooke, S O’Loughlin, A Richardson, E Duncan, S Clarke, J O’Brien, S Robinson

Hermes-Monkstown: L Murphy, C Quinlan, R Carrigan, S Loughran, N Evans, E Horan, E Curran, S Kelly, S Greene, A O’Flanagan, C Watkins

Umpires: C Metchette, A Keogh

Irish Hockey Association media release

Edinburgh University lift the cup for double success


Edinburgh Uni women 2017

Edinburgh University retained the Women’s Scottish Cup, as they secured a superb domestic double with a 2-1 with over Clydesdale Western.

Western were the only team to have beaten the dominant Edinburgh side this season, however they were unable to do so again despite taking the lead.

The early stages of the game were even. Both sides created half-chances, however neither was too dominant.

Western then opened the scoring, shortly after the ten-minute mark. Lucy Lanigan took advantage of a high ball which came into the penalty area, converting to make it 1-0.

The goal provided Western with a massive confidence boost, and they were looking impressive against an Edinburgh University side who were yet to show their best form.

Nevertheless, the champions would soon respond. After around 20 minutes had been played, Louise Campbell seized possession near the touchline, and drove forward to the edge of the penalty area.

She sent the ball into the box, and it eventually found Zara Malseed, who duly converted to make it 1-1 and level the game.

After the goal, the Edinburgh side started to improve. At the start of the second half they continued to push forward in search of a goal to send them into the lead. While they were clearly in the ascendancy, though, they were struggling to create too many clear-cut opportunities.

Campbell was a constant threat, with her pace ensuring the Western defence always had to be on alert.

A second goal for the champions soon came, resulting from a penalty corner. Campbell stopped the ball to perfectly set up Malseed, who rocketed the ball into the Western net to score her second of the afternoon.

The Edinburgh side continued to press for a third goal, as they looked to seal the game. Amy Brodie was keen to get her name on the scoresheet. Her effort was saved, and her cross on the rebound was unable to find any teammates.

Still, Western were unwilling to concede defeat without a fight, and they started to work their way back into the game. Heather Howie won a penalty corner, but it was sent wide.

While Laura Swanson then came close for the Edinburgh side, Western continued to press desperately for an equaliser as the game headed into the closing stages.

Their hopes were given a dent when Lucy Lanigan and Laura Mann were both given yellow cards within minutes of each other.

Edinburgh University sought to take advantage of their opponents’ last gasp attacks. Once again Campbell’s pace proved deadly as she broke forward on the counter-attack. She slotted the ball to Malseed, who was unable to convert and become a hat-trick hero.

Western made once last attempt at an attack in the final few seconds of the game. They were too late though, and their dominant Edinburgh opponents secured a memorable, hard-fought win.

Full-Time Milne Craig Clydesdale Western 1-2 Edinburgh University


Edin Uni v Clydesdale women 2017 final

Glasgow University 0-4 CALA Edinburgh

East versus West was the billing for the Women’s Scottish Plate Final between Glasgow University and CALA Edinburgh, and it was the side from the Capital who took the spoils.

Glasgow University started the stronger of the two playing some slick aggressive hockey. Captain Laura Murray was particularly influential in the early stages, and it was she who twisted and turned her way into the D for the first opportunity of the match, but she was eventually crowded out by hard-working CALA defenders.

An intentional foul in the D resulted in a penalty stroke to CALA. Lorna Crawford sent the stroke into the bottom left corner leaving the goalkeeper with no chance, despite guessing the right way. 1-0.

It was a conflict of styles, with Glasgow University enjoying most of the possession but CALA creating the better chances. Glasgow continued to probe throughout the first half but found the CALA defence a tough nut to crack.

Into the second half and CALA started the stronger of the two, asking questions of the Glasgow University rear-guard.

They were rewarded with their second goal. From a penalty corner the evergreen Angie Davie set-up A J Russell to score from two-yards out.

The goal spurred Glasgow University on and they went hunting for a goal. Zara Bell had a good chance from a penalty corner but her effort deflected wide.

Then a flash of brilliance by Nicole Pike where she created the chance for herself and hammered the ball just wide of the target for Glasgow University.

CALA put the game to bed when they were awarded a penalty stroke. Lorna Crawford stepped up again and scored despite a great effort by Rowan Sinclair in goal for Glasgow University. 3-0.

The scoring was rounded off by Eleanor Desmulliez who slipped the ball past the advancing goalkeeper to make it 4-0 to CALA Edinburgh.

Full Time: Glasgow University 0-4 CALA Edinburgh


CALA women 2017

Orkney 3-0 Shetland

Orkney secured the Women’s District Cup after a dominant 3-0 win over Shetland.

Shetland hadn’t beaten their island rivals since 2003 heading into the game, and they were unable to thwart Orkney’s continuing dominance in the fixture.

The opening ten minutes were evenly matched. While both sides were playing well, chances were limited, a goalmouth scramble the closest Orkney came, and an effort from Kristan Robertson being the closest Shetland came.

Orkney then opened the scoring, courtesy of Lauren Gilmour. After an impressive dribble into the penalty area, Inga Kemp slotted the ball to the scorer, who sent it into the net.

The opening goal buoyed Orkney, and they then took complete control of the match. Having set up the opener, Kemp was instrumental, dictating the play for her side and having more than one chance.

Bethin MacDonald was also a key threat for Orkney, and she had an effort saved by Shetland goalkeeper Megan Nicholson.

Nicholson was a pivotal last line of defence for her side, and the main reason they headed into half-time just one goal behind their opponents.

The second half continued in a similar manner. Claire Irvine’s rocketed strike made it 2-0, as Orkney appeared to have all but sealed the cup.

At the other end of the pitch, Robertson was trying valiantly to bring Shetland back into the game. On one or two occasions her teammates took advantage of Orkney being light in defence and found Robertson, however she was unable to convert any of her chances.

MacDonald was desperate to find the net for Orkney, and came close again as Nicholson continued to do what she could to limit the damage.

Orkney then sealed the game as they made it 3-0, courtesy of Hannah Cromarty. Receiving the ball during a penalty corner, she passed to Kemp, who returned it to Cromarty for her to send it home, and secure an impressive win.

Even as they chased the game Shetland struggled to create anything substantial, and Orkney saw out the final few minutes comfortably.

Inga Kemp was the winner’s star performer, instrumental in almost every attacking move. Alongside her MacDonald constantly worked hard for an Orkney side whose victory never seemed to be in doubt.

Orkney 3-0 Shetland


Orkney team 2017

Granite City Wanderers 2s 1-2 Glasgow Accies

The Women’s District Plate Final was a fascinating clash between Granite City Wanderers 2s and Glasgow Academicals, with the Glasgow side taking the spoils.

Granite City Wanderers 2s had the first chance of the match, Fiona Martin scuffed her shot as the goalkeeper rushed out to narrow the angle.

Then Accies came forward and Holly Belch had an early chance but bobbled her shot wide of the left post.

It was Belch who opened the scoring half way through the first half. A long pass found Belch running towards the goal and she slotted the ball low into the net from the right of the D.

Granite City Wanderers had a great chance to equalise when a slick passing move found Hannah Lawrie to the right of the D, but her pass across goal couldn’t find a teammate for a finish.

Belch added her second to make it 2-0 just before half time, finishing off a quick counter attack with a cute spinning strike under the goalkeeper.

Into the second half and Belch had effort saved soon after the restart – a similar approach to the first two goals but this time it was well dealt with by the goalkeeper.

Accies continued to pressure and had two penalty corners, the second of which went wide.

Granite City Wanderers worked their way into the match – the ball was worked dangerously into the box by Ruth Paterson, but no one was able to connect.

Then Granite City Wanderers had another good chance, they worked into the D, but again no one was able to capitalise.

It was 2-1 before long. Nicola Wordie slipped the ball to Hannah Lawrie who scored a classy top corner goal to bring Granite City Wanderers 2s back into the contest.

Granite City Wanderers worked tirelessly to find an equaliser but Accies held on to lift the silverware.

Full time: Granite City Wanderers 2s 1-2 Glasgow Accies


Glasgow Accies winners 2017

Photos by Mark Pugh and Duncan Gray

Scottish & District Cup final reports by Justin Bowie

Scottish Hockey Union media release

Telkom Orange juggernaut rolls on

By BRIAN YONGA


Vikings goalkeeper Winnie Kiprop (left) tries to make a save from from Audrey Omaido of Telkom Orange (right) during their Kenya Hockey Union Premier League match at City Park Stadium on April 23, 2017. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU |  NATION MEDIA GROUP

Champions Telkom Orange continued their impressive start to the season after a 5-0 win away to returnees Mombasa Sports Club (MSC) in a Kenya Hockey Union (KHU) women’s Premier League Club on Sunday.

A brace each from veteran striker Jackline Mwangi and international Maureen Okumu set the champions on the path to a comfortable win at the grass surfaced Mombasa Sports Club.

At the City Park Stadium in Nairobi, visiting Nakuru Athletic Club chalked up a 2-1 win over Kenya College of Accountancy of University (KCAU) in a men’s Premier League encounter.

At the same venue, Kenyatta University (KU) Titans hit fellow university side Multimedia University 2-0 in a women’s top flight encounter. On Saturday night, Kenya Police beat Nakuru 4-0 with skipper Brian Saina hitting brace. It was Police’s second win of the weekend after a nervy 2-1 win over Technical University of Kenya (TUK) 2-1 at the same venue.

CHASING 20TH LEAGUE TITLE

In Mombasa, Orange, who are chasing a record 20th league crown, were rarely troubled the visitors, who were playing their first match on their return after a three year absence.

MSC missed two matches in Nairobi last weekend handing walkovers to Sliders and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (Jkuat).

The hosts managed to keep out the visitors for 11 minutes before they were finally overpowered as Mwangi got in the MSC defence to score past goalkeeper Mildred Nillah. Orange, missing the services of international Lilian Aura in midfield, doubled their lead three minutes to end of the second quarter as pacy winger Okumu slotted home Audrey Omaido’s short corner.

The hosts rarely threatened and their task was made harder as Orange made it 3-0 at the start of the third quarter as defender Juma finished off another Omaido corner.

Orange coach Jos Openda replaced number one goalie Cynthia Onyango with second choice Ruth Njoki after 31 minutes.

Two more goals followed before the final whistle as Orange cruised to the sixth win of the season. “We did not concede yet again which is a plus for the defenders and our keepers. The grass surface is a bit difficult to play in but we showed our class and another three points in the bag,” Openda said.

At City Park, Police made it six wins on the trot after a brilliant attacking display against the Rift Valley side. 

Daily Nation

Champs Telkom Orange show little mercy against MSC

By Elizabeth Mburugu


Jacqulyne Mwangi (right) of Orange Hockey Club attempts to clear the ball against Cecilia Namakonjio (left) of Mombasa Sports Club during their national hockey league match played at the Mombasa Sports Club, April 30, 2017. Orange won 4-0. [PHOTO BY GIDEON MAUNDU/STANDARD.

Champions Telkom Orange defeated hosts Mombasa Sports Club (MSC) 5-0 in a Kenya Hockey Union women’s Premier League match yesterday.

A blend of experience and upcoming talent worked for Telkom Orange as veteran Jackline Mwangi and youngster Maureen Okumu bagged a brace each. Seasoned international defender Terry Juma scored once to help the reigning queens inch closer to winning a record 20th league title. An elated Orange coach Jos Openda lauded his charges, more so the goalkeeper, saying they did a commendable job maintaining a clean sheet.

“It was a tough call playing on a grass surface, but I’m glad my players were able to rise to the occasion and get the job done. The goalkeepers were impressive and handled attacks from our opponents with some professional touch. Their excellent output has helped us maintain a clean sheet,” Openda said.

Mwangi put Orange ahead 11 minutes into the match to give them a 1-0 advantage in the first quarter. MSC tightened their defence and made it difficult for their guests to breach their territory. However, after several failed attempts, Okumu converted a penalty corner to give Orange a 2-0 halftime lead.

Juma converted another penalty corner in the 33rd minute, while Mwangi and Okumu completed their braces in the 44th and 58th minutes.

In Nairobi, former men’s Premier League champions Kenya Police defeated Nakuru HC 4-0. Brian Saina struck twice, while Amos Barkibir and Titus Kimutai scored one goal each. Police are seeking to reclaim the title they last won in 2013.

The Standard Online

Jo'burg and London provide stage for PAHF’s finest to put on a show

2017 World League Semi-Final

Sarah Juggins


Chilean Denise Krimerman and Manuela Urroz celebrate the winning goal in the World League R2 semi-final vs Uruguay that qualifies Chile for the World League Semi-Final in Johannesburg (Photo: Yan Huckendubler)

Argentina men and women and the USA women’s side will be viewing the upcoming HWL Semi-Finals as the golden opportunity to seal qualification for the 2018 World Cups, and it would be a foolish person to bet against all three teams qualifying. However, two other teams from the region also have their own World Cup dreams and we meet two players and a coach who are now hoping that their own journeys will culminate in London or Bhubaneswar next year.

While the HWL Round Two events are all done and dusted, for a number of teams the hard work is not just continuing, it is getting tougher. For those teams that qualified for the next stage – HWL Semi-Finals – the prize is tremendous: a potential spot at the 2018 Hockey World Cup, a place in the HWL Finals in December, as well as a march up the world rankings.

Five PAHF teams are now in preparation stages for the Semi-Finals. Teams ranked in the top 11 in the world, including Argentina men and women and USA women, automatically qualified for the next set of HWL events, and they will be joined this year by Canada men and Chile women, who both qualified via HWLR2, in Trinidad and Tobago and Canada respectively.

Argentina and Canada men’s teams will be heading off to compete in London, England, from 15-25 June, while Argentina, USA and Chile women will all be battling for a top three finish in the heat of Johannesburg, South Africa. This competition runs from 8-23 July. The other venue for the HWL Semi-Finals, at which there are no PAHF teams competing, is Brussels, Belgium.

Chile women were the surprise package in the HWL R2 event held recently in West Vancouver. They entered the tournament ranked 20th in the world and beat the higher ranked host nation Canada in a tense 1-0 match as well as close rivals from South America, Uruguay, who held their own aspirations to repeat their 2015 HWL Semi-Final adventure. Chile eventually lost to the top ranked team India, but only after a 1-1 draw in the final: the match was then decided on penalty shoot-out.

Manuela Urroz has been a key member of the Chile national squad since she first pulled on the shirt of the Diablos eight years ago. She plays her club hockey in Belgium but one of her ambitions is to make hockey the number one sport in Chile.

Looking back on the HWL R2 event in Canada, Urroz says:  “I think the tournament was great for us. We won against teams that are not easy to beat like Canada and Uruguay and we drew in the final against India, who had played at the 2016 Olympics. We worked hard as a team, defending our own circle really well and scoring goals in every game.”

Team Captain Camila Caram says the next few months will be intense for the Chile team. The coaching staff have identified areas that need improvement based on those performances in Canada and, with the entire squad living in or around Santiago, training has really ramped up. “Everyday we train a minimum one shift, some days two. As we have only two months, we won’t be getting much in the way of international matches. Maybe one small tour to Argentina, as we are lucky to have them as neighbours.”

Like many nations who are ranked outside the top 10 teams, Chile’s players are mostly amateur, with jobs or studies jostling for a proportion of their time. Urroz has been playing her domestic hockey in Belgium, where she is looked after as a professional athlete, but for some of the players it is a difficult balance between studies, work and hockey. As Urroz says, when it comes to tournaments, such as the HWL Semi-Finals, this puts an even bigger strain on a player’s life. The team leaves for South Africa 10 days ahead of the tournament starting and then they have a further 10 days of intense competition before returning to Chile. That adds up to more than three weeks of time spent travelling and living out of hotel rooms.

“We can travel for many weeks when there is a tournament,” says Urroz. “And everyone has to arrange their lives around that. But, even though it can be hard, we are a committed bunch and that doesn’t detract the focus of the team from our long-term objectives.”

The fact that many of the Chile team now play for clubs in other countries has been a big help in the development of the nation’s hockey. Learning how to play with and against other styles of play is something that can only be gained by experience, and with several of the players now plying their hockey trade in Europe, the knowledge is filtering through the squad.

The beauty of the Hockey World League is that the teams get the chance to play national squads that they do not meet on a regular basis. The HWLR2 final against India will have been one of the few occasions that the Chile players have faced an Asian team, but that experience will stand them in good stead when they face Japan and India again in South Africa. Among their other opponents are England, who as Great Britain are reigning Olympic champions, plus the Olympic bronze medalists Germany. The presence of PAHF rivals USA and Argentina will also pose a challenge to Chile – these are teams they know well and will be very aware that they haven’t beaten either side in a  major tournament.

Urroz puts its very simply: “Our major challenge in South Africa will be qualify to the World Cup. But for that we need to beat teams that are higher ranked than us. To reach our objective we need to be the surprise of the tournament. I believe we are capable of that if we keep fighting hard as a team and trusting in our working process.”

Caram agrees: “We are the lowest ranked team in the tournament. So every team on paper, are on top of us. To not think about that, and play against this higher ranked team, as equals, will be quite a challenge. We need to concentrate on not being in the bottom of the pool.

“But we played against India in HWLR2 and it was a really tight game, where they just beat us in shoot outs. And we played against South Africa in the summer, and they were also tight games. So we are hoping to create several upsets. Argentina and the USA, we know them pretty well, we've played against them many times. It will be a little bit harder against them, but we stay positive and we stay together as a team in good and bad moments.”

One team that is getting used to competing in the big leagues is Canada men. The team achieved a fourth place finish in the 2015 HWL Semi-Finals, effectively booking their berth to Rio 2016 in the process. They also qualified for the HWL Finals where, they would concede, they encountered a huge learning curve – finishing in last place after losing all their matches.

Head coach Anthony Farry is determined that the past two season’s experiences will provide a platform for his team to move forwards. Playing the top ranked teams, even if they have lost the games, has provided the Canadian players with a wealth of experience and, as Farry points out, at the HWL Semi-Finals last time around, the team knows they can perform well when it counts.

Farry is a coach with a clear strategy that his players have all bought into. Players and coach talk about “continuing to build on our core concepts/principle in training so we try to make sure we are good at what we do.”

The Canadian team’s preparation will be tough and focused. “Training, training and more training,” says Farry. The team is travelling to Europe early to get a few practice matches against France – something that will get the travel out of their legs and acclimatise them for a European summer.

With so many players now joining clubs across the globe, there is an increasing homogenisation of styles. Many of the Canadian players have competed in Europe or Asia. Farry says that among the teams of similar rankings, there is not a great difference in the way the game is played. His aim is to get his players performing with the consistency and level of ball control that the very top teams display. 

Canada went to the 2015 HWL Semi-Finals as the sixth ranked nation and came away with a fourth place finish. This year, they are the fifth ranked team, and to qualify for the World Cup they need to repeat that feat of finishing two places higher than their ranking. Farry knows that his team must be at their best to get the result they desire but he also knows that his team have a knack of delivering when it matters most.

In London, Canada will be joined by the world number one side, Argentina. The last time Argentina competed in a major competition in London was the 2012 Olympic Games, where they finished a disappointing 10th, one place lower than their world ranking at the time. This is a very different team, with a very mindset and Carlos Retegui and his side will be determined to show the world that they are the number one ranked team for a reason.

PAHF might have only two representatives among the 20 teams competing in the men’s two HWL Semi-Final events, but this might be a case of quality outplays quantity.

Pan American Hockey Federation media release

Black stick Nick Wilson on a break as he weighs up hockey future

GEORGE HEAGNEY


Black Sticks striker Nick Wilson, right, here playing at the 2016 Rio Olympics against Spain, is yet to decide on his hockey future. Christian Petersen

Black Stick Nick Wilson is yet to decide on his hockey future and whether he will play for New Zealand again.

The 170-test striker has taken a break from the international game since the Rio Olympics last year.

"I haven't officially retired, but I'm taking a break from the game, probably at least for a year, at least this year," he said. "I'll still play [National Hockey League] but I'm taking a break from the New Zealand scene to see how my body goes this year.

"Because it was quite tough last year to get through, I'll reassess whether to keep playing."

He said he needed a break to refresh the brain and body.

"I was feeling mentally pretty chocka with hockey and it was also a tough year with work and everything involved. It's always a tough year with the Olympics."

Wilson, 27, had a serious knee injury which kept him out of the game for 18 months in 2013 and 2014, and although he returned to fitness, he is still suffering a slight hangover with his knee.

His knee is unlikely to ever get back to 100 per cent because he doesn't have cartilage in part of it, so it can get quite painful.

"I have to reassess whether I'm going to run myself into a wheelchair by the time I'm finished."

How his body fares is the No 1 thing that will determine if he retires.

"It's whether the body can sustain what the [New Zealand] guys are doing now."

Even though he is on an international break, Wilson is playing club hockey for North Harbour's Hibiscus Dairy Flat and he his still enjoying it.

He said it is refreshing to play a whole club season, because usually he only plays a handful of games a season.

For now he is still working at Auckland real estate company Barfoot Commercial and he said he was their No 2 salesman.

The devastating 3-2 loss to Germany in the Olympic quarterfinals, where New Zealand led 2-0 but conceded three goals in the last four minutes, was still in the back of Wilson's mind, but he had moved on.

The Black Sticks finished seventh at the tournament.

Wilson hasn't spoken to new Black Sticks coach Darren Smith about returning, but is in no rush to make a decision.

Wilson told the coaching staff he was taking a break last year when Colin Batch was still the coach.

The Black Sticks team, who is playing in Malaysia at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, has a lot of young players and Wilson hasn't even played with some of them.

A couple of the older Black sticks players have retired since the Olympics and there are about 11 playing in Europe.

Wilson has been to two Olympics and one Commonwealth Games since he debuted for New Zealand in 2007 aged 17.

Stuff

SSTMI thrash UniKL to reach the summit

KUALA LUMPUR: SSTMI Thunderbolt surged to the top of the Malaysian Junior Hockey League’s (MJHL) Division One standings for the first time this season after thrashing Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) 10-0.

Amirul Firdaus Shamsudin was the hat-trick hero, scoring in the 14th, 25th and 27th minutes at the Kuala Lumpur Hockey Stadium. Mohamad Akhimullah Anuar Esook (13th and 54th), Mohamed Ariff Syafie Ishak (12th), Mohamed Shahrin Izzudin Shamsuri (24th), Shello Silverius (43rd), Mohamed Amirul Hamizan Azhar (44th) and Mohamad Syawal Najmi Amiruddin (45th) were the other scorers.

“It’s going to be a close fight for the title so the goal difference is going to play a big part. I’m glad we managed to score 10 today,” said SSTMI coach Wan Roslan Wan Abdul Rahman.

Like defending league champions SSTMI, BJSS Thunderbolt were also big winners yesterday. They outplayed Olak Nurinsafi 9-0 to move up to second place with 15 points, just one point behind SSTMI.


 
It was, however, not a good day for Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ). They started the day as leaders on 15 points but dropped down to third on goal difference after losing 3-2 to SMKDBL Johor Juniors at the MBPJ Hockey Stadium.

It was MBPJ’s first loss of the season.

MBPJ, however, still hold the advantage. They have a game in hand over SSTMI and BJSS Thunderbolt.

MBPJ started off well, taking the lead in the seventh minute through a field goal by Mohamad Syabil Aizam Mohamad Noor.

But Mohamed Shafiq Hassan and Alfarico Lance Liau Jr put Johor Juniors in front with goals in the 12th and 43rd minutes.

MBPJ fought back to level in the 47th minute with Mohamed Syafiq Izzudin Ibrahim converting a penalty corner.

Mohamed Faris Ros Fadillah ensured all three points for Johor Juniors when he netted a field goal in the 53rd minute.

Johor Juniors team manager Shahabuddin Royani was surprised with the win.

“We didn’t expect full points. But our players were disciplined today and that paid off,” said Shahabuddin.

The Star of Malaysia