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All the news for Sunday 5 November 2017

Women's Asia Cup 2017 - 5-8 Crossovers

THA v SIN     1 - 1 (4 - 3 SO)
KAZ v MAS     1 - 2

FIH Match Centre

Malaysia edge Kazakhstan to set up clash with Thailand

By Aftar Singh


National womens hockey coach K. Dharmaraj.

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will face Thailand today in the fifth-placing playoff match at the women’s Asia Cup hockey tournament.

In yesterday’s fifth to eighth classification match, Malaysia came back from a goal down to edge Kazakhstan 2-1 at the Gifu Hockey Stadium in Kakamigahara, Japan.

Malaysia went on the offensive from the start but Kazakhstan grabbed the lead through a field goal by Aigerim Makhanova in the 24th minute.

But Malaysia came back strongly in the third quarter with two quick goals.

Nuraslinda Said levelled the score with a field goal in the 31st minute and skipper Siti Rahmah Othman gave Malaysia the lead off a penalty corner in the 33rd minute.

Not happy, Malaysia continued their attack but they were denied a third goal by Kazakhstan goalkeeper Alexandra Lipunova.

As for Thailand, they edged Singapore 4-3 in a penalty shootout after both teams drew 1-1 in regulation time.

National coach K. Dharmaraj (pic) was unhappy with his team’s performance.

“We failed to make use of our chances in the first two quarters. We allowed Kazakhstan to take the lead to put ourselves under unnecessary pressure.

“Then, we did well to score two quick goals but failed to increase the lead despite creating numerous chances in the fourth quarter,” bemoaned Dharmaraj.

In their last meeting at the Kuala Lumpur SEA Games in August, Malaysia beat Thailand 2-0 to clinch the gold.

Dharmaraj believes another tough clash is on the cards.

“The Thais will be out for revenge. I hope our players will rise to the occasion to get another win,” said Dharmaraj.

The Star of Malaysia

Defenders are delivering in Kakamigahara

K. Arumugam



Goal scorers hog the media headlines. They deserve for whatever it is worth. But who gets the team the victory? Its team game its difficult to see things in fragmented way. Yet, the question comes to mind often as one watches the Indian game here in Kakamigahara Asia Cup.

The context or climax is India-Japan semifinal. Indian goal tenders -- forwards and drag flickers - struck thrice in the first ten minutes and then went into a silent mode.

Who then got us the victory?

Its Indian defence. Deep Grace Ekka, Sunita Lakra, Sushila Chanu and Gurjit Kaur are guarding the Indian citadel with great zeal and enthusiasm. Between them they could forge an impregnable Indian wall that is delivering results for India.

Deep Grace Ekka is a daredevilry kind of stuff. She is brave. Sushila Chanu could so far summon her experience whenever the team came under high press, as happened in the third quarter in the semis.

New Women's coach Harendra Singh is pleased with his team, especially the defence.

"They listen to coaching. They are sincere. Sushila Chanu in fact is a personality of her own. When she asserts the others in the team get the right kind of message and motivation".

"Seniors in the team are in fact sub-coaches. They have to assert, guide, and prove their mettle by their own form on the field. Then only teams win. Am happy to have players of Sushila's mould in the team. There are some others in other sections. They inspire. The team played like champions in the first quarter. And then they were excited, lost the kind of maturity and coolness needed. The team came under continued pressure for the rest of the game. Goalkeepers, defenders and the midfield held their nerves, and kept things under control", explained the nuances of Indian victory over hugely talented home team in the semis.

On goalkeeping side, Savita Punia is a girl possessed. Her anticipation, patience, and reflexes are seen to be believed. She made breathtaking saves when needed against both Malaysia and Japan, only teams that presented challenge to India so far.



Its goalies Savita Punia and Rajani Etimaparu and the defence that drive India in the ongoing Asia Cup where India fielded two new comers, had to miss two veterans - Deepkia and Poonam Rani -- due to injury. "At present both Savita and Rajani are Asia's best. I can definitely say this", Coach Harendra assessed.

Defenders have delivered results silently. They have no qualms who gets the limelight or whose name comes on the scoresheet. These are never their concern. They coolly do what they are asked to by the coach, and coolly give the country its moments of happiness.

These silent warriors need our appreciation. If they can deliver their stuff one more day, the Cup is India's

Stick2Hockey.com

We will not be complacent, asserts Rani Rampal

s2h Team



As Indian girls readies themselves for the big day, captain Rani Rampal says that her team won't be complacent tomorrow in the Asia Cup final.

The question arises now because the Indians in Kakamigahara have won all the matches so far, more so against China in the League. India beat higher ranked China, who are their rival tomorrow, so comprehensively (4-1) the team may be in a relaxed mood, complacency factor thrown in.

"Yes, we beat China in the league, but that is past. Same China beat South Korea in the semis. We don't know how better they will be tomorrow. Whoever the team, we are playing final, we have to play well to win the Cu. Therefore, we need to be cautious, and we are, " Rani said confidently.

Rani must know this as she was part of Bangkok Asia Cup team, which lost the final to China on today's reverse score.

Recollecting that match she said, "They were world number two then, far better side."

"Final hai kuchh bhi ho sakta hai. Every team wants to win. Having done well so far we will do our best,' Rani, who will be playing her third Asia cup, second final at that, asserted.

"We need to play acchi (good) hockey if we want to win the Cup".

"We need to cut out our silly mistakes such as we committed against Japan. We will try to play good hockey so that we get good result in the final".

"We are aware. We won't be complacent," the last year's Arnuna awardee, said

Stick2Hockey.com

Sushila Chanu: Coaching has no language but....

s2h team



Senior player in the Indian Women's hockey team Sushila Chanu played her heart out in the semifinal against Japan. Her goalline save in the fourth quarter is still etched in the mind. The Olympic captain wants to take same spirit -- that the team showed so far in Kakagimahara -- to the final too.

"We did well so far. We won all the matches here. There were difficult times in the course like the last quarter against China. We did some silly mistakes there. We won't do that in the final. We will keep up the spirit that gave us so much wins here", the smiling assassin who killed many a Tsunami moves of Japan in the semis," said.

Sushila is excited that the present team could defeat Japan in Japan.

"We lost to Japan in the Hockey World League. It was lurking in our minds, we wanted to take sporting revenge. That's exactly happened in the semis", she said.

India pumped in three goals in the first ten minutes in the semis to stun about two hundred fans who braved the inclement weather to support their national team.

"We conceded two quick goals in the second quarters. In the half-time, Harendra Sir told us to keep cool and play, and if you do so goals will automatically come. We will keep this in mind in the final", she recollected.

Indian women are having a native coach who can speak in their language after almost a decade. Its Harendra Singh who broke the foreign thing. Asked about training under foreign coach and Indian, experienced Sushila came on her own form. She believes coaches are same irrespective of origin.

"All coaches are good. Everyone trains to our best. But when Harendra Sir says something we get into it, get the touch, it sinks into us immediately. For others the interpreter connect with coach, the difference is there. We understand the things in one say. Otherwise, every coach is good," Sushila felt.

"We are happy we are in the final. We are in the final after long time. We defeated Japan because we were determined to defeat them to take revenge. The same spirit will carry us along tomorrow too", the stylist medio-turned-defender, signed off.

Stick2Hockey.com

India not taking China lightly

The women’s team looking to emulate the men


All set: India captain Rani Rampal is hoping for another collective effort from the players. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Seeking a World Cup berth, the Indian women’s hockey team will vie for the top honours when it takes on China in the final of the Women’s Asia Cup here on Sunday.

The Indian team, which has remained unbeaten with convincing victories in the pool stage, as well as in the quarterfinals and semifinals against Kazakhstan and defending champion Japan respectively, would be hoping to continue the winning momentum.

“We are extremely motivated after the men won the Asia Cup. Now it’s our turn. The mood in the dressing room is upbeat. Everyone is excited and fully prepared for the final,” said Rani.

“The match against Japan was really good. Getting off to a good start was always the plan and every member of the team executed their specific role brilliantly. We played as per the strategies planned by our coaches and ensured there were minimal errors,” she added.

With a 4-2 victory over hosts Japan in the semifinal on Saturday, India will be high on confidence, especially having thrashed World No. 8 China 4-1 in the pool stage.

But the skipper insisted that her team was not going to take China lightly.

“We know China is a good team and can be quite unpredictable. We can’t take them lightly simply because we have beaten them before. We have worked on our game plan for tomorrow and focus will be on following the strategy made by our coaches.”

In the Asian Champions Trophy last year, India had lost to China 3-2 in the pool stage but came back strongly in the final to beat it 2-1.

With 27 goals so far in the ongoing tournament, India’s forward-line has been rather fierce, creating penalty corner chances and finding spaces to pump in goals.

Off the total goals scored, drag-flicker Gurjit Kaur has contributed eight and is also the third highest goal-scorer in the tournament so far.

Navjot Kaur and Navneet Kaur have four goals each while Deep Grace and Rani have scored thrice. Young gun Lalremsiami has scored two while Neha Goyal, Sonika and Vandana Katariya one goal each to their credit.

“I think it has been a collective team effort in the tournament so far and Gurjit has been excellent in all the matches. We want to come up with an overall performance tomorrow too,” Rani said.

The Hindu

Stats Speak: Double Delight for India?

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

India and China both have entered in final of Asia Cup fourth time. Indian ladies had played in 1999,2004(won) and 2009.Chinese women had appeared in 1989(won),1993 and 2009(won).

8th in World Ranking China have an edge but Indian are on threshold for double delight. Indian men have won Asia Cup in Dhaka a fortnight ago. Indian ladies also won against the Chinese in Oct 2016 Asian Champions Trophy final in Singapore. Here are statistical highlights:

 Fieldhockey.com

Tit bits here and there: "Are you still working?"

K. Arumugam



Are you still working? This is what Kim Sam Ryul, 62, asked when I just crossed over him today at the Kawasaki stadium. The famous Korean coach once famously said that he won’t ever coach a women’s team. ”Am here as Korea’s observer”, said Kim who did his coaching Diploma from NIS, Patiala in the 80s.

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He was an unforgettable player. Seung Jinn Yoo is triple Olympian from South Korea. Was part of Koreans of 90s and early 2000s which demolished India and Pakistan hegemony in Asia. Interestingly he coached Japanese girls for gold in the last Asia Cup, Kuala Lumpur. He is here as Secretary, AHF High Performance Committee. He predicts boldly that India will win the Asia Cup here. He even says the score will be 3-1 in favour of India. He coaches Hiroshima hockey teams nowadays. He was part of Asian Xi that participated in the Continental Classics. And therefore remembers well the great Shabhaz Senior. "He is trying to improve Pakistan hockey", Seung said.

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Two veterans in the team, Rani Rampal and Vandana Kataria were called for dope test here in Kakagihamara

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On day 2, Pakistan umpire Mrs Rasool, who is wife of former Olympian Akhtar Rasool, stopped the game. According to her the Singapore team had 12 players on the ground. But on counting it was not.

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Indian team is staying in Miyako hotel located in Central Gifu. It takes 30 minutes drive for the stadium in Kakagimahara. As usual, the stadium is called Kawasaki, from distant appearance resemble Cellular building of Andama & Nicobar, known for India’s freedom struggle.

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Only India and China, besides Asian Hockey Federation officials and tournament officials are staying in Miyako, which seems one of the costliest hotels in this part of Japan. Malaysia are staying in Hotel Gifu Grand where Indian team with Harendra Singh and Rajinder Singh Sr as coaches stayed in the early 2000s

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Media facility with wi-fi is provided in a cabin located on the right side the goal cage. and outside playground. One cannot watch matches from media cabin because of two sections of grills plus maze behind goal cage. Of late one or two videogaphers, especially for Japan matches, start coming. As usual with women hockey, this writer is the lone journalist here most of times. However, there is no restriction as to go there, don’t go there kind of interruptions which normally so with any FIH official present.

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Siefred Aikman is an old hand in Japan. He was their national team coach six years ago. The Dutch man is busy nowadays to put together a strong team for the next Asian Games. "My target is home Olympics. There are not many players, they are from schools, colleges and some are with jobs. Getting them together is a task. For example I had only ten days to prepare for the Dhaka Asia Cup", says the well known coach. He is a regular in the stand to watch all the matches in the early parts.

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Indian team’s physio, a South African, had a difficulty in the beginning of the tournament. He was struck with Chikengunia, had to take rest for 2,3 days. He was fit again for the India’s second game onwards.

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London Olympics captain Bharat Chetri is manager of the team and also goalkeeper coach. He has built a good rapport with both goalies Savita Punia and Rajani. Once Savita said to him, "that is a good point Sir". For which Bharat replied smilingly: "I have many points, but you all should take it".

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The weather here is unpredictable and quite opposite to each day. One day heavy rains, the other day chilling cold winds despite bright sunshine. I brought this heavy jacket, did not bring yesterday and suffered, its almost blinding cold here, said Dharmaraj, Malaysian coach. Indian coach Harendra too said: “I just chose thinnest jacket, could not stand in the stand during match, he said. Now, the temperature as per street signboard is 12-15 degree centigrade without chilling wind and incessant rains.

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Miyako is located on the banks of imposing Nagarawa river. Initially, the river had a lean water course. Its brimming with waters nowadays, almost full presenting two different scenic views.

Stick2Hockey.com

PHF names squad for four-nation event in Australia

LAHORE: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) on Saturday announced a 16-member squad for the four-nation International Festival of Hockey being held in Melbourne from Nov 8 to 12.

Pakistan along with hosts Australia, New Zealand and Japan will vie for the title.

Mohammad Irfan Senior has been retained as captain and Umar Bhutta as his deputy.

Five new players have been selected in the squad for the first time. They are Khizer Akhtar (Tando Jam, District Hyderabad), Shajeeh Ahmed (Sargodha), Hassan Anwar (Faisalabad), Hassan Anwar (Pir Mahal, District Toba Tek Singh) and Shan Irshad (Sheikhupura).

Seven players, who were part of the 18-member national squad which competed in the recently-held Asia Cup in Dhaka, have been dropped. They include Azfar Yaqoob, Ali Shan, Waqas Akbar, Rizwan Senior, Rashid Mahmood, goalkeeper Mazhar Abbas and Mubashar Ali.

Squad:

Amjad Ali (goalkeeper), Mohammad Irfan (captain), Abu Bakr Mahmood, Atif Mushtaq, Hassan Anwar, Ammad Shakeel Butt, Tasawwar Abbas, Mohammad Rizwan Jr, Arslan Qadir, Shajeeh Ahmed, Shan Irshad, Umar Bhutta (vice-captain), Atiq Arshad, Ajaz Ahmed, Bilal Qadir, Khizer Akhtar.

Officials:

Farhat Khan (manager/head coach); Malik Shafqat, Mohammad Sarwar (coaches); Dr Atif Bashir (team doctor); Abuzar Umrao (video analyst).

Dawn

Hockey India names 35 players for national coaching camp

There is no change in the core group for the camp. (TOI Photo)There is no change in the core group for the camp. (TOI Photo)
NEW DELHI: Having stamped their supremacy in the continent by winning the Asia Cup, the Indian men's team will regroup at the Sports Authority of India, Bengaluru for a 18-day national camp ahead of the Hockey World League Final in Bhubaneswar, beginning December 1.

The 35-member core group that includes the 18-member Asia Cup squad as well as players who were part of the India A team that participated in the Australian Hockey League will be put to test starting November 5 in order to select the final team for the season finale in Odisha.

While there is no change in the core group, goalkeepers Akash Chikte and Suraj Karkera will be joined by Vikas Dahiya and celebrated custodian PR Sreejesh who is working on making a comeback after a layoff due to injury.

Dragflick specialist Rupinder Pal Singh, fullbacks Birender Lakra and Kothajit Singh too will be available for selection after injury layoff while forward Mandeep Singh is back in the camp after being rested for the Asia Cup.

"It is not only the players making a comeback after recovering from an injury who will have to prove their mettle but every single player will have to strive to make his position in the team for the Odisha Hockey World League Final Bhubaneswar 2017. The standards are high to be selected in the team and that's good because it makes players better," asserted chief coach Sjoerd Marijne.

Not reading too much into the Asia Cup triumph, Marijne was modest to admit that the team needs to improve a lot more to achieve the desired results at the December event.

He said, "Together we have to become more consistent. We have a tendency of dropping our level too low in a match where the opponent ends up coming back into the game. If we make too many technical errors the level drops and that's one of the things we have to improve and focus upon during this camp."

Emphasising on room for improvement, the Dutchman was also quick to draw positives from his team's abilities on the pitch.

"The team brings a lot of energy into matches. Our speed and fitness are strong points and if we combine this in a good way with our technical skills then we can be quite lethal," he stated.

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Akash Chikte, PR Sreejesh, Vikas Dahiya, Suraj Karkera

Defenders: Dipsan Tirkey, Pardeep Mor, Birendra Lakra, Kothajit Singh, Surender Kumar, Rupinderpal Singh, Harmanpreet Singh, Jasjit Singh Kular, Gurinder Singh, Amit Rohidas, Varun Kumar

Midfielders: Chinglensana Singh, SK Uthappa, Sumit, Satbir Singh, Sardar Singh, Manpreet Singh, Harjeet Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, Manpreet (Junior), Simranjeet Singh

Forwards: Ramandeep Singh, SV Sunil, Talwinder Singh, Mandeep Singh, Affan Yousuf, Nikkin Thimmaiah, Gurjant Singh, Akashdeep Singh, Lalit Upadhyay, Armaan Qureshi.

The Times of India

Jamaica begin quest today for spot at next year's CAC Games hockey tourney

BY GERALD REID

JAMAICA will bow into action as the 2017 Central and Latin American and Caribbean (CAC) Hockey Qualifiers get under way today at the Jamaica National (JN) Hockey Field at Mona.

The CAC Qualifier is a Pan American Hockey Federation qualifying event with the top two teams from the men's and women's competitions qualifying for the 23rd staging of the CAC Games to be held in Barranquilla, Colombia, next year.

The Jamaican men's team will first take on Panama at 10:30 am before their women compatriots do battle with Panama at 4:30 pm.

Both coaches — Nicholas Brown of the men's team, and Christine Bartley of the women's team — said they are mainly concentrating on today's matches while observing the other teams before assessing what strategies to apply for the remainder of the tournament.

Coach Brown said he would like to begin his quest for a qualifying spot on a winning note today.

He said he expects a victory but he won't be taking Panama lightly. “So far the players are confident and our aim is to be on nine points on Thursday before facing Guyana in our final match of the preliminary rounds, as we would have already qualified for the final and, in addition, book our place for next year's CAC Games,” said Brown.

“I told the players that I am not looking for any nail-biting finishes in the matches, but just go out there and play to win,” he added.

Jamaica's starting 11 should be chosen from Shiaeine Blake, Rahsaan Smith, Onique Salmon, Kemar Gobern, Nicholas Beach, Charles Burton, Brandon Clarke, Kardiff Davidson, Phillip Dawson, Andre Gardener, Giovanne Green, Oshane Haseley, Duvaughn Henlon, Xavier Hendricks, Jonte Johnson, George McGlashen, Kemar Mitchell, and Kishawn White.

The women's team is also ready for action, and the starting 11 should be chosen from Imauny Linton, Jonel Witter, Antonette Baxter, Chakira Airey, Shareeka Elliott, Kameisha Erskine, Ombretta Gordon, Sauwana Gordon, Kamille Griffiths, Krystal Holgate, Kareme Hudson, Trudy-Ann Knight, Lori-Ann McIntosh, Ebony McLean, Demi Nicholson, Pikeshia Powell, Dionne Smallhorne, and Shana-Kay Tullonge.

Meanwhile, the other matches scheduled today are Guyana vs Puerto Rico in men's action at 8:30 am; Guyana vs Panama in women's action at 12:30 pm, and Bermuda vs Puerto Rico at 2:30 pm in women's action.

Jamaica Observer

Surbiton beat East Grinstead to pull clear of the chasing pack


Nat Wray celebrates winner for Bowdon Hightown against Leicester. Credit Andy Smith

Defending champions Surbiton moved four points clear at the top of the Investec Women’s Premier Division after an important 2-0 victory at East Grinstead on Saturday.

The sides started the day as the top two but it was visitors who took the lead midway through the first half, Emily Atkinson converting a penalty corner.

Surbiton doubled their lead four minutes before the break through Emily Defroand, a lead that they would hang onto making it three wins on the bounce.

Bowdon claimed their first win in six after a last gasp 2-1 victory at Leicester to pull away from the bottom of the table.

Natalie Wray (pictured) opened the scoring on eight minutes, a lead that Bowdon held until seven minutes from time when Kathryn Lane’s penalty corner looked to have rescued the hosts a point.

It was Wray who had the final say, doubling her and Bowdon’s tally with a penalty corner with a minute to play to send the visitors home with all three points.

Buckingham moved second in the table after a 3-2 win at home to Clifton Robinsons.

Lauren Thomas struck first for Buckingham on 29 minutes, only to see her effort cancelled out by Abigail Porter two minutes later but the hosts would still go into the break ahead, Eloise Laity restoring the lead a minute later.

Natasha Marke-Jones again restored parity in the second half for Clifton, but again they were level for just one minute, Natasha James’ second of the season securing the points.

Erica Sanders scored the only goal of the game whilst Katherine Somerville kept a clean sheet to help send the University of Birmingham third after a 1-0 win at Slough.

Meanwhile, Canterbury picked up only their second point this term, coming from behind to draw 1-1 at home to Canterbury.

Both goals came in the second half, Eleanor Watton scoring for the visitors with Lucy Hyams hitting the equaliser for Canterbury, Holcombe having to settle for their fourth draw of the season.

Investec Conference East

Hampstead & Westminster eased to a 6-0 victory at home to Harleston Magpies to stay top of the Investec Conference East on goal difference.

Leading 2-0 at the break through Emily Maguire and Annabel Driver, the hosts took control after the break, goals from Lauren Turner (2), Annebeth Wijtenburg and Jasmine Clark sealing the win.

Sevenoaks join the leaders with a hundred percent record after coming from behind to beat St Albans 2-1, Maddie Thompson striking the winner.

Great Britain’s 2016 Olympic Gold Medal winners were in fine form on Saturday, Crista Cullen scoring four to move into double figures for the campaign as Wimbledon dispatched Chelmsford 9-0, whilst Helen Richardson-Walsh hit a double in Cambridge City’s 5-1 win over Southgate.

Meanwhile, Rachel Jackson converted a last-minute penalty corner as Bedford won 2-1 at Barnes for their first victory since the opening day of the season.

Investec Conference North

Beeston stretched their winning streak at the start of the Investec Conference North season to seven games after a 2-1 victory at home Ben Rhydding.

Alice Huddleston and Sophie Robinson both scored in the space of four first half minutes and despite Kelly Baxter pulling one back for Ben Rhydding with 10 minutes to play, the hosts held on.

Brooklands Poynton remain hot on the leaders heels after a 4-2 win at Timperley, Annie Mills scoring a brace for the visitors to take her tally for the season to seven.

Loughborough Students picked up their first points of the season with a 2-0 win at Wakefield, Annabel Sams and Cerys Miller on target, whilst a Tess Howard double helped lift the University of Durham to a 3-0 win over Sutton Coldfield.

Liverpool Sefton fell to the foot of the table after Loughborough’s win, they entertain mid-table Fylde on Sunday.

Investec Conference West

Trojans stayed top of the Investec Conference West after an impressive 4-0 win at Stourport.

The two sides were separated by just two points at the start of the day, but second half strikes from Jill Tombs, Emma Teague, Jenny Peebles and Hannah Leigh gave the visitors victory.

Sophie Shakespeare hit a first half brace as Reading stay a point behind the leaders after a 2-1 win at Isca.

Two goals in seven minutes for Jodie Beddow and Esme Gibson helped Cannock make it back to back wins with a 2-0 triumph at Olton & West Warwicks.

Elsewhere, Abi Flory scored the winner as Oxford Hawks won 2-1 at strugglers Team Bath Buccaneers whilst Swansea City defeated Gloucester City by the same scoreline.

England Hockey Board Media release

Goals aplenty in National League


Western Wildcats v Grove Menzieshill – photo by Duncan Gray

The top four in the Scottish Men’s National League 1 are unchanged but Grove Menzieshill improved their position after what eventually turned out to be a comfortable win at Auchenhowie. Edinburgh University are top of Women’s National League 1 after a sensational goals-laden victory at Kelburne.

A slightly under strength Western Wildcats more or less held their own at 2-3 early in the second half but Grove Menzieshill, with one of their better performances of the season, eased to a 5-2 victory. Roshan Anderson and Joe McConnell kept Western in touch but goals by Alex Blaikie, Cameron Golden, Hamish Rice, Olly James and Gavin Byers were ultimately too much for Western.

Kelburne’s 3-1 win over Edinburgh University keeps them in touch with Grange at the top of the division.  A goal apiece from Mike Christie, Chris Nelson and Chris Caldwell were sufficient against a single strike by Davyn Keuter.


Michael Christie scores for Kelburne – photo by Andy Lovat

Hillhead’s 3-2 win over Clydesdale moves them up level on points with their opponents and fairly well in mid-table. Michael Delaney netted from a penalty corner and Iain Duke and Graeme Campbell completed the task. A good win for Hillhead but they had to hang on as Clydesdale mounted a late challenge for an equaliser.

Grange and Uddingston fought out a 3-3 draw which sees Grange retain the lead by a point over Kelburne. Uddingston, still well in the relegation zone, have shown improved form recently and may well surprise other opponents.

The final game on the cards saw Dundee Wanderers come back from 2-0 down to earn a point against Inverleith.


Western Wildcats v Grove Menzieshill – photo by Duncan Gray

In Women’s National League 1 Clydesdale Western converted a 4-0 half time lead into a 6-2 victory over Hillhead with goals by Emma McGregor (2) while Lexi Sabatelli, Ali Howie, Lucy Lanigan and Millie Steiger added one each. That keeps Western well placed behind leaders Edinburgh University.

Edinburgh University maintained their lead in division 1 with a resounding win over Kelburne – 13-0 is impressive at any time. Zara Malseed scored four and Sophie Maunder, Amy Brodie and Laura Swanson bagged two each. Bridie Marlow, Louise Campbell and Ellie Hutcheson contributed one each. That does leave Kelburne struggling at the foot of the table with six straight defeats.
Goals at Kelburne v Edinburgh University


Amy Brodie of Edinburgh University strikes against Kelburne – photo by Andy Lovat

Glasgow High Kelvinside snatched a 2-1 victory away to Grange with a penalty corner strike, while Grove Menzieshill clocked up an impressive 3-0 win over Western Wildcats at Auchenhowie.

In the final game in Women’s National League 1 Dundee Wanderers had a solid 5-3 win away at Watsonians, which included a hat-trick for Ruth Blaikie.

Scottish Hockey Union media release

Teams ready for battle after Premier Hockey League draft

Ten coaches emerged from the pressure cooker of the player draft with their final teams that will do battle in the 2017 edition of South Africa's Premier Hockey League (PHL), starting later this month.

In a draft process reminiscent of the NBA and NFL, the coaches did battle for their preferred players. These players filled the remaining eight places after each side was allocated six marquee stars, chosen by the national high performance panel, to promote a level playing field. Coaches were required to release between four and eight players from their 2016 squads.

Head coach of the men’s defending champions, Maropeng Cavemen, Mark Sanders was a happy man after the conclusion of the draft.

“We’re very, very happy with the 2017 Cavemen,” he said. Speaking about some of the players he’d managed to snap up, Sanders added: “Thabang Modise, also known as Smiley, plays up here in Jo’burg at Wits University, and he is an exciting young player. Chad Fucher is also at Wits University and also very exciting. I’m happy. I think we’ve got some good quality youngsters and some fantastic players to help the older guys to retain their heads a bit sometimes.”

Sihle Ntuli, coach of the Drakensberg Dragons, said: “This year all teams have been given six marquee players which automatically brings extra quality to the teams. This concept is fantastic as some of the younger provincial players find themselves playing in the same environment as some of our senior international players. The national selectors in my opinion have split the marquee players up really well and the balance among the teams allows for a good contest over the three weeks.

“Going into year two I really believe the standard of the competition will pick up with both players and coaches having a better understanding of how to phase the tournament.”

Six men’s and six women’s team will contest the second edition of the PHL which gets under way on November 25 at the Randburg Astro in Johannesburg with further action on the following two weekends and the playoffs taking place on 11-12 December.

The respective under-21 teams had already been selected prior to the draft, but those not making the sides were available to be picked for the other squads.

Newly promoted to head coach of the Madikwe Rangers, who finished runners up last year, Tsoanelo Pholo, spoke about the pressure of the draft process.

“I’ve been in hot seats before as a coach next to the field but being in the draft room is something different – very, very exciting, on-the-edge stuff.

“I’m over the moon with every pick I got to make today. Long hours last night thinking about the players I wanted and I think I got every single one. I’m really excited to get going with a young and I think very talented team that I got to pick. It’s going to be a very competitive tournament and I’m looking forward to it.”

Coach of the Blyde River Bunters, 2016 champions of the women’s tournament, Lindsey Wright, meanwhile, was happy with the outcome of the draft.

“It was interesting. You’ve obviously got to make sure your plan is in order and look around players as to what the other teams were picking and then hopefully come up with alternative plans to meet the requirements of the team.

Speaking about the PHL in general, the former national captain added: “It’s an exciting concept. It fills a definite hole in South African hockey where competitive competition is needed. I think what was really exciting about 2016 was that every game was very closely fought and that’s exactly what SA hockey needs when they’re going into big events like World Cup and Commonwealth Games. You need to be playing consistently competitive hockey that brings out the right qualities in the national teams.”

Current national captain Nicolene Terblanche is one of the marquee players in the Bunters side.

“There are a lot of new players coming into the Bunters team which is cool. That’s the thing that makes the PHL so good – playing with different players from different provinces and I think the teams are more balanced this year so that’s exciting,” she said afterwards.

PHL schedule (all matches played at the Randburg Astro, Johannesburg):

November 25-26: Pool games
December 2-3: Pool games
December 9-10: Pool games
December 11-12: Playoffs

All matches will be broadcast live on SuperSport.

FINAL TEAMS:

MEN

Maropeng Cavemen: Clinton Panther, Rassie Pieterse, Tommy Hammond, Miguel De Graca, Lance Louw, Reza Rosenburg, Michael Abrahams, Hendy Seerane, Nicholas Berichon, Brynn Cleak, Ricky West, Bernard Greybe, Cameron MacKay, Lungani Gabela, Matthew Davies, Thabang Modise, Chad Futcher, Cerezo Comerasamy, Andrew Buckley, Brad Robertson, Coach: Mark Sanders

Drakensberg Dragons: Austin Smith, Gowan Jones, Jethro Eustice, Matt de Sousa, Melrick Maddocks, Nqobile Ntuli, Taylor Dart, Chad Cairncross, Nick Gonzalves, Dalan Phillips, Dylan Swanepoel, Cody van Wyk, David Agar, Mbuso Mgobozi, Tim Kirkman, Gareth Heynes, Amkelwe Letuka, Stephen McManus, Lance de Kock, Cameron Ryan, Coach: Sihle Ntuli

Addo Elephants: Julian Hykes, Ignatius Malgraaf, Robin Jones, Matthew Martins, Jonty Robinson, Dan Sibald, Sinoxolo Mbekeni, Onke Letuka, Jody Erasmus, Damian Kimfley, Andrew Manson, Jermaine Johnson, Joshua August, Brett Walraven, Chad Durrheim, Roberto Bosman, Winray Christoffels, Franco Carstens, Zamokuhle Ngubo, Bjorn Sorensen, Coach: Cheslyn Gie

Mapungubwe Mambas: Owen Mvimbi, Tevin Kok, Rusten Abrahams, Nduduzo Lembethe, Francois Pretorius, Richard Curtis, Travis Hardnick, Sizwe Mtembu, Kirwin Christoffels, Michael Marki, Callum Buchanan, Winchester Scott, Ross Gonzalves, Ross Hetem, Dillon Langeveld, Michael Forrest, Greg Last, Kewan Harries, Jarryd Jones, Steven Paulo, Coach: Krinesan Moodley

Garden Route Gazelles: Jean-Pierre De Voux, Keenan Horne, Lloyd Norris-Jones, Ryan Julius, Alex Stewart, Siya Nolutshungu, Reece Arendse, Satchi Reddy, Gerald Mpopo, Dylan Coombes, Michael Mulder, Lyndon Fredricks, Andile Ndlovu, Duncan Fischer, Le-Neal Jackson, Jayson Reed, Berne Burger, Shaun Baker, Brandon James, Craig Wiid, Coach: Mark Hopkins

Golden Gate Gladiators (U21):Muzzamil Sheik, William Eveleigh, Andrew Hobson, Tyson Dlungwana, Courtney Hallé, Jared Cass, Jacki Mohlaba, Sam Mvimbi, Connor Beauchamp, Chris Makaba, Ross Campbell, Mark Chong, Matthew Roman, Luke Schooling, Che February, Spencer Botes, Dayaan Cassiem, Max Pike, Brad Sherwood, Laython Coombs, Coach: Gareth Ewing

WOMEN

Blyde River Bunters: Phumi Mbande, Nicolene Terblanche, Izelle Verster, Natalie Esteves, Celia Evans, Marizen Marais, Elmien Marais, Anel Luus, Lauren Nina, Kaydee Miller, Christine Roos, Chrizelle Andries, Onthatile Segaole-Zulu, Julia Fleming, Sinalo Jafta, Carmen Smith, Nicole Kemp, Marissa Poolman, Meeghan Klomp, Hannli Hattingh, Coach: Lindsey Wright

Orange River Rafters: Cheree Greyvenstein, Dirkie Chaimberlaine, Tarryn Mallet, Amy Ethrington, Jessica de Bruyn Smith, Sulette Damons, Luche Klaasen, Zimasa Dunywa, Bronwyn Kretzman, Nicole Koenig, Sulize de Klerk, Cornelle Holtzhausen, Francisco Darkoh, Kelsey Minaar, Leratho Mahlangu, Jackie Scheepers, Donna Small, Chane Hartel, Amy Celeste Greaves, Georgia Grobler, Coach: Shaun Hulley

Madikwe Rangers: Mmatshepo Modipane, Lisa Deetlefs, Bernadette Coston, Toni Marks, Sylvia van Jaarsveldt, Lillian du Plessis, Louise de Jager, Lisa Hawker, Amore de Wet, Cheneal Raubenheimer, Isabella Da Rocha, Courtney Abrahams, Lelethu Ndakisa, Anel van der Venter, Shindre-Lee Simmons, Lezaan Janse van Vuuren, Kerry Eagleton (Pearton), Londeka Dlamini, Claire Gibbings, Robyn Pinder, Coach: Tsoanelo Pholo

St Lucia Lakers: Marileze van Tonder, Kara Stella, Shelley Jones, Quanita Bobbs, Erin Hunter, Stephanie Baxter, Heraldine Olin, Chardinay Penniston, Jenna Shuker, Karen Bowyer, Zimi Shange, Kelly Reed, Pollert Mashau, Bianca Wood, Kim Hubach, Ayanga Baleni, Megan Anderson, Tiffany Jones, Paige Phillips, Charne Hill, Coach: Inky Zondi

Wineland Wings: Nicole La Fleur, Jade Mayne, Ilse Davids, Jess O'Connor, Tarryn Glasby, Line Malan, Robyn Johnson, Cathrine McNaulty, Nomphilo Thenjwayo, Michelle Dias, Anche Nortje, Kaila Flemming, Thando Chiti, Sonika van Heerden, Kirsten Leigh Wagner, Hope Nkosi, Miche Bennett, Daniella Rhodes, Sasha Sivertsen, Lida Kotze, Coach: Ryan Pillay

Namaqualand Daisies (U21): Kirsty Adams, Monique Bartsch, Stephanie Botha, Frances Carstens, Ashleigh Datnow, Courtney du Preez, Tegan Fourie, Lizanne Jacobs, Mmamoagi Agi Kungoane, Charnè Maddoks, Sisipho Magwaza (gk), Ongeziwe Mali, Kristen Paton, Hannah Pearce, Jamie Southgate, Sadisiwe Tabata, Nomnikelo Veto Moya Smith (gk), Simone Gouws, Casey Jane Botha, Coach: Rob van Ginkel

SA Hockey Association media release

Champs Terengganu held by Penang in opener

By S. Ramaguru


Plotting his next move: Terengganu’s Muhammad Sufi Ismat (centre) being marked by two Penang players during their opening Division One match of the Razak Cup in Ipoh yesterday. — RONNIE CHIN / The Star

IPOH: Defending champions Terengganu survived a late fightback from Penang to share points after a 4-4 draw in their opening Division One match of the Razak Cup hockey tournament at the Azlan Shah Stadium.

The Group A match was a drab affair in the first three quarters with Terengganu leading 4-1 by the 54th minute. But Penang staged a remarkable comeback with three quick goals to secure a point.

Penang coach S. Prakash was full of praise for his players.

“It was a tremendous effort. Our players never gave up and fought till the end. I am pleased that the players are able to give such a performance and we hope to build on this display,” said Prakash.

Terengganu took the lead in the 26th minute through a field goal by Faizal Saari. Shahrin Mohamed then doubled the tally in the 37th minute.

Penang only managed to reduce their deficit in the 52nd minute through Mohamed Haikal Abdul Mutalib. But the east coast side surged further ahead with strikes by Shahrin in the 53rd minute and Nik Mohamed Aiman Nik Rozemi in the 54th minute.

It seemed like Terengganu were coasting to an easy win. But Penang netted three goals in five minutes, starting with Mohamed Haikal in the 55th minute. Muhammad Rashid Baharom then made it 4-3 a minute later with a field goal.

Haikal completed his hattrick and Penang’s equaliser by firing home a penalty corner in the 60th minute.

Terengganu coach Sarjit Singh flayed his defenders for the silly mistakes late in the game.

“We should have won considering that we were leading 4-1. But we gave away unnecessary penalty corners. Penang fought all the way and deserved credit for taking a point off us.

“I hope my players will learn from this and we should be thankful that we didn’t lose the match,” said Sarjit.

The other Group A match also ended in a draw with 19-time champions Kuala Lumpur being held to 2-2 by Melaka.

In Division Two, former champions Pahang kicked off their campaign in style by whipping Kelantan 6-1 in Group A.

Mohamed Hafiz Ismail scored a hattrick for Pahang. Mohamed Johari Sani, Mohamed Sybrie Shamsuddin and Mohamed Fakhri Ardillah added the other goals.

Kelantan’s consolation goal was scored by Mohamed Hanif Zahidi.

The Star of Malaysia

Ruthless Kenya Police go 15 points clear in hockey league

By BRIAN YONGA


KCA-U's Simon Peter (left) tussles for possession with Richard Birir of Kenya Police during their Kenya Hockey Union Premier League match at City Park Stadium on November 4, 2017. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU |  NATION MEDIA GROUP

Runaway leaders Kenya Police on Saturday opened a 15-point lead at the top of the Kenya Hockey Union men’s Premier League after a 4-0 win over Kenya College of Accountancy University (KCA-U) in their match at City Park Stadium, Nairobi.

A brace from skipper Oliver Echenje set the law enforcers on the path to victory, with Samuel Wokila and Robert Masibo also getting their names on the score sheet to give their team the three points.

The win saw Police maintain their unbeaten start to the season and they remain in pole position to reclaim the title they last won in 2013.

NAKURU BEAT KU

In another match, Nakuru came from a goal down to beat Kenyatta University Vultures 3-1 at the same venue.

Police coach Kenneth Kaunda believes the best is yet to come from his charges, challenging them to maintain their top form. “We were brilliant today and totally deserved the three points after an all rounded display. We were slow off the blocks but the goal allowed us to settle and we were able to pin them back,” Kaunda told Nation Sport.

“There are still a lot of matches to be played before the season ends. So far so good, everything is going according to plan,” the tactician added.

After a dull first quarter, Police went ahead three minutes after the second quarter as Echenje, who made his debut for the national team in last week’s Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, flicked Wokila’s cross past KCA-U keeper Collins Odongo.

The students had to wait until the third quarter to again break down the students’ defence as Echenje blasted home Willis Okeyo’s short corner. Three minutes later, the game was effectively over as Police showed their prowess in short corners with Wokila this time the scorer to make it 3-0.

KCA-U offered little in attack and their forwards Mitchel Kiara and Kevin Oduor were neutralised by the Police defence led by Sammy Oungo and Masibo. The students defence was caught napping in the 46th minute and Police picked them out to make it 4-0.

Police keeper Martin Agesa had little to do in the match as his side made it 17 wins from 18 matches.

The result saw Police complete a double over their opponents, having won their first leg meeting 3-1. In the second match, Vultures went ahead in the 15th minute courtesy of Kennedy Nyongesa’s penalty stroke.

However, the visitors hit back with a hat-trick from John Rioba to complete a remarkable win.

Daily Nation

Pauline Naise: the wild talent of fast-rising football, hockey maverick

By BRIAN YONGA


Pauline Naise of Amira Sailors drives the ball during their Kenya Hockey Union women’s Premier League match at City Park Hockey Stadium on July 23. The talented youngster has represented Kenya in Africa Cup of Nations in both football and hockey. She currently turns out for Kenya Hockey Union women’s Premier League side Amira Sailors, and Soccer Queens in the FKF Women’s Premier League. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU |  NATION MEDIA GROUP

Very few sportsmen and women have what it takes to compete in two or more disciplines and perform extremely well. Those that do it are a cut above the rest and belong to a different and rare class of players.

Pauline Naise Amutebi belongs to this group of multi-talented players, who have managed to juggle football and hockey and shining in both. The 23-year-old is an international football-cum-hockey player, leaving many amazed at just how she is able to play the two technical sports.

She currently turns up for Kenya Hockey Union women’s Premier League side Amira Sailors and Soccer Queens in the FKF Women’s Premier League.

She has followed in the footsteps of some the great names in Kenya who excelled in more than one sport. The likes of J.J Masiga (rugby and football), Aasif Karim (tennis and cricket), Carl Tundo (motorsport and golf), Collins Omae (rugby and athletics) and Hellen Chemtai (athletics and hockey) have all walked this path.

Naise made headlines in September last year, when she was called up to the national women’s football team Harambee Starlets that was preparing for the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations that was held in Cameroon.

“Prior to the Starlets call up, not many people knew me as a footballer but football was actually my first love since my days in High School,” Naise reveals.


Pauline Naise during a training session with the national women's football team. PHOTO | COURTESY |

Her call up sent tongues wagging, with many wondering why a hockey player was being called up to the national football team.

“I couldn’t believe the news, it was such a humbling experience to be considered. You know how many people dream of such a moment and here I was about to experience it?” Naise recalls. She joined the Harambee Starlets camp and weeks later made the team that went to Morocco for a series of friendlies ahead of the Nations Cup.

“The camp was amazing, not like the hockey training where you go with all your gear. There, everything was provided and this was quite impressive.”

In Morocco, Naise made her debut for Starlets, coming on as a second half substitute in the team’s 8-1 win over Moroccan club Wydad Casablanca. She also played some part in Kenya’s second friendly against a second Moroccan club CAK Khanifra, which Starlets won 6-1.

“Just wearing the national team jersey was a proud moment, and making it to the pitch to play was the icing on the cake. I was grateful to the coach for giving me such an opportunity.”


Amira Sailors forward Pauline Naise reacts during the interview with Nation Sport at Nation Centre on November 2 2017. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU | NATION MEDIA GROUP


Amira Sailors forward Pauline Naise smiles during the interview with Nation Sport at Nation Centre on November 2 2017. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU | NATION MEDIA GROUP

She had been tipped to make the final team to Cameroon but a miscommunication breakdown saw her miss the final team. Starlets failed to qualify from their group after losing all their group matches on their debut appearance at the continental showpiece.

“It was not really a disappointment in failing to make the team, just being called up to the national team and managing to earn two caps was an achievement in itself, there were better players than me in the squad,” she adds.

LOVE FOR SPORT

Naise’s love for sport started at St Cecilia Misikhu Girls High School in Bungoma County. While in Form One and Form Two, she played football but a misunderstanding with the football coach would see her cross over to hockey.

“Before Form Three, I had not gone anywhere near a hockey pitch and I considered it a very dangerous sport and couldn’t possibly imagine myself playing the sport. I needed a place to keep fit before returning to football and the hockey team provided that opportunity for me. I learnt the sport from watching the other players and learning the game at my own pace helped a lot.”

In 2008, she made her hockey debut at annual tournament at St Anthony’s Kitale Day High School, where she finished as the top scorer. The same year, she led her school to a third place finish at the National Secondary School Games.

The following year, her school went all the way to the final but lost to Lwak Girls, but managed to win the East African title in Fort Portal, Uganda, with Naise again finishing top of the scoring charts.

“The awards and goals developed my love for the sport and that attracted scouts.”  After finishing secondary school education in 2009, Naise was spotted by United States International University-Africa (USIU) scouts during the annual Nabongolo tournament at St Anthony’s Kitale Day High School.

She impressed the scouts and they offered her a sports scholarship at the university where she was to pursue a degree in International Relations, while playing hockey in 2010. “I had an opportunity to play with players I looked up to like Lorraine Nondi and Barbara Simiyu.”

During the same year, she was called up to Kenya Under-16 hockey team and in 2011 at just 17 years, she made the senior team.

“Getting called up to the national team as a teenager was also another memorable moment, I felt unworthy considering I was up against some very experienced players in the team.  Her first international assignment was the 2012 Olympic qualifiers in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe where Kenya finished third behind the hosts and Ghana.


Pauline Naise of Amira Sailors drives the ball during their Kenya Hockey Union women’s Premier League match at City Park Hockey Stadium on July 23. The talented youngster has represented Kenya in Africa Cup of Nations in both football and hockey. She currently turns out for Kenya Hockey Union women’s Premier League side Amira Sailors, and Soccer Queens in the FKF Women’s Premier League. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU |NATION MEDIA GROUP

CAPTAINED THE TEAM

She scored one goal playing alongside Telkom’s veteran striker Jackline Mwangi. In 2012, she captained the Under-21 team at the Africa Hockey Championship held in South Africa where the team placed third.

“The experience I gained from these matches was immense for many of us who were still rookies and this helped build our confidence and exposed us,” she says.

In 2013, she was also in the Kenyan team that again finished third at the Africa Cup of Nations held in Nairobi. Kenya hammered Tanzania 11-0 to claim bronze, with Naise scoring four goals.

The following year was glorious one for Naise on the international scene. Kenya hosted the World League One Series in Nairobi, and the women’s hockey team put in one of their best performances. The team beat rivals Ghana 1-0 and hammered neighbours Tanzania 22-0 to qualify for the World League Two Series.

Naise was the top scorer of the competition with 13 goals, capping off a brilliant performance.

“Helping the team seal qualification to the next round still ranks as my best moment in hockey because it showed that we were on the right track as a team."

The same year, she helped her side USIU Spartans finish third in the league.

The next year proved a tough one for Naise, both on and off the pitch. A dismal performance by Kenya at the World League Two Series in Uruguay after missing the opening two matches saw Naise take a break from the sport at the end of that season.

“I felt like I was mentally drained and needed time off just reassess my options, I was hoping to help the team in Uruguay but that was not be and that made me feel like a failure.”

Later in the year, Naise broke her leg while playing football in a local tournament in Sigalagala, Kakamega County, and before the year ended, a move to play professionally in Germany fell through after she was denied a visa.

“For me, the deal was to go and play and also study at the same time but it did not materialise and that further put me down,” she added. In 2016, Naise joined Kakamega High School as the fitness coach for both the rugby 15s and hockey sides.

Kakamega’s 15s rugby team, nicknamed ‘the Barbarians’ went on to finish third at the national games held at Friends School Kamusinga but redeemed themselves at the East African secondary school games, winning gold. It is at her time in Kakamega during rehabilitation that she rekindled her love for football and joined Vihiga Leeds.

“So this one day I’m jogging in Sigalagala and I spot a group of ladies training for football. One of them happens to be a friend I had not seen for a long time and she convinced me to join the team. I decided to give it a try and she introduced me to the coach, Kenneth Bramley."

“Initially, the coach didn’t see much of a footballer in me because of my small body, and I had a pony tail and make-up. It wasn’t an image anyone would have for a footballer but I went on and trained with the team anyway.

She made her mark during a memorial match in honour of one of Leeds players. Naise scored a hat-trick to help the team win 3-1 and that saw her become a permanent fixture in the team. She went on to feature regularly for the side, helping them to fifth place finish in Kenya women’s football premier league.

It is during a league match where she was spotted by Starlets scouts and earned a call-up to the national team. But 2017 saw Naise return to hockey, signing for Amira Sailors after a move to Strathmore Scorpions fell through.

“It took some convincing for me to come back (to hockey) and the coach (Collins Asimba) was persistent and I eventually gave in and agreed to join,” Naise reveals.


Chase Amira's Pauline Naise dribbles the ball during their Kenya Hockey Union women's Premier League match against Telkom Orange at City Park Stadium on March 11, 2017. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU | NATION MEDIA GROUP


Elizabeth Ngombo of Strathmore University (left) drives the ball with Pauline Naise of Amira Sailors in pursuit during their Kenya Hockey Union Women's Premier League match at City park Stadium on May 1, 2017. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU | NATION MEDIA GROUP

And her impact has been remarkable, she is currently the team’s top scorer with 14 goals. The team is third in the league standings. She also moved from Vihiga Leeds to Nairobi-based Soccer Queens.

“So far the schedules for the two sports have not collided and balancing has proved to be just fine.

“I am glad to be back playing hockey, it was hard at first but I have adjusted pretty well and I want to help my team finish in the top two,” said Naise, who looks up to Naomi Van Ness of Holland.

A return to the national team came in last month’s Africa Cup of Nations in Ismailia, Egypt. Kenya men’s and women’s teams finished a disappointing fourth, missing out on qualification for next year’s World Cup.


National hockey team player Pauline Naise during a past training session. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU |

Naise attributes the dismal display to poor preparations.

“Our opponents had their trainings in Europe, while we only played local sides, we have got to be better prepared for international competitions if we hope to succeed. She scored in Kenya’s 1-0 win against Nigeria.

Asked which of the two sports she enjoys more, the last born in a family of 10 says she loves football more than hockey. She is scheduled to go for trials in Bordeaux, France next year and remains optimistic that her future is in football.

“Football is my first love and I think it has the potential to get me far coupled with hard work and discipline. She calls for better treatment of sportsmen and women in Kenya, challenging federations to do more in developing sports.


Amira Sailors forward Pauline Naise a point during the interview with Nation Sport at Nation Centre on November 2 2017. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU | NATION MEDIA GROUP

Naise admires playing alongside Scorpions forward Gilly Okumu, fellow Amira player Yvonne Madowo and also singled out Jane Muragu (Scorpions), Caroline Guchu and Cynthia Onyango (both Telkom) as players she enjoys watching play.

Outside sports, Naise loves cooking, music, spoken word, and fashion. She is also a motivational speaker to high school students.

“I am generally a social person and I enjoy making a difference in people’s lives in the time given to me in this world,” she adds.

Daily Nation