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All the news for Thursday 9 November 2017

Bermuda now tied on 7 points with Jamaica. Puerto Rico scores in Women CAC Qualifier.

Puerto Rico scores 4 goals against Panama. Guyana shifted third place after a draw with Jamaica



PAN 0 vs BER 4

The CAC Qualifier in Kingston, Jamaica, resumed on Day 3 with Bermuda going up against Panama for a chance to sit at the top of the table.

The first period found Bermuda on a scoring streak, starting in the 8th minute with Maya Palacio. With more goals 2-3 minutes apart, Renee Greenslade, Jasmine Patterson and Azari Thomas made it 4-0 just before the first period ended.

Panama turned up their defending a notch to prevent Bermuda from capitalizing on the number of chances presented to them. One such chance was a penalty stroke taken by Thomas and saved by Daryeli Castro. This win now puts Bermuda on 7 points.

GUA 0 vs PUR 4

Mariso Miro made 3 attempts at goal in a first period penalty corner, but Sandra Sis and Norma Quevedo held it together for Guatemala. Both teams went into the half time break without scoring.

Third period began with a high press from the Puerto Ricans and three back to back saves from Quevedo.

In the 24th minute, Captain Josefina Freaney scored a remarkable reverse stick shot into the top left of the goal to give Puerto Rico their first goal of the competition and the lead over Guatemala. Lyneishka Leon and Kayla Chapman scored from penalty corners in the 46th and 49th minute to widen the gap. The final goal came in the last minute of the game from Marisa Batista.

JAM 0 vs GUY 0

The midday sun at the JN Hockey Field caught Guyana and Jamaica battling for a chance to end the day with maximum points. Jamaica was awarded a penalty stroke in the first quarter; Demi Nicholson takes the shot to the right of Briawna Gordon who makes a save to deny Jamaica of the early lead. Kerensa Fernandes got off a shot at goal in a penalty corner, but it was blocked by Trudyann Knight. Despite a dominant first half by Jamaica, they failed to get pass the Guyanese defence.

Guyana began to apply some pressure on the Jamaicans, winning four consecutive penalty corners; however, none resulted in a goal.  Jamaica is now tied on 7 points with Bermuda, leading on goal difference. Guyana has been shifted to third place after ending with a goalless draw for the second time.

Pan American Hockey Federation media release

Guyana wins their second game of the CAC Qualifiers. Puerto Rico scores on Day 3.

Guyana now tied on 6 points with Jamaica. Puerto Rico scores 5 goals against Panama.


Photo: John Williams

GUY 4 vs GUA 0

Guyana and Guatemala were tied on 3 points going into Day 3 of the CAC Qualifiers in Kingston, Jamaica having only played one game thus far. A deliberate clearance over the backline by goalkeeper Jorge Lopez resulted in a penalty corner for Guyana. The backboard echoed as Jamarj Assanah quickly converted penalty corner to goal in the 8th minute to give Guyana the lead.

A reverse stick shot by Guatemala’s Didier Monterroso went just above the crossbar. Xavier Steven did well to break down their counterattack moments later and stop them from equalizing.

Jorge Ramirez held the defence together until the 47th minute when Aryody Brandford found his way to goal. Guyana celebrated again in the 54th and 58th minute when Robert France and Orlando Semple made it 4-0 for Guyana. Guyana is now tied on 6 point with Jamaica.

PUR 5 vs PAN 2

The final game of the day featured Puerto Rico and Panama who have been struggling to find the goal since the start of the competition. A penalty corner gave Kenneth Rodriquez the first shot at goal which bounced off goalkeeper Aldahir Ornano. Ottus Feliciano went for the rebound and was successful in giving Puerto Rico the lead just before the end of first period.

Both teams returned to the second period with a fighting spirit. Manuel Colon scored the second goal of the match and Yomar Martinez of Panama followed shortly after.

Kenneth Rodriquez, Yaphet Melendez and Henzor Motta brought the score to 5-1. In the 57th minute, Eduardo Gordon scored to make it two goals for Panama.

Pan American Hockey Federation media release

Is hockey the beautiful game?

Hubert Lawrence


Jamaica's Nicholas Beach (right) shoots to score while Panama's Jefferson Cerrud takes evasive action in their 2017 CAC Games qualifier, at the JN Hockey Field on Sunday. Ricardo Makyn

Even now, even with tikka-takka in our faces courtesy of FC Barcelona and television, the epitome of beautiful football may well be Brazil in the 1970 World Cup. Pele, Gerson, Tostao, Rivelino, Jairzinho and company captivated fans with a delightful balance between individual skill and imaginative team play. In the 1970s, Holland, with Cruyff, Neeskins and Rep put a European spin of the same concept with each man in orange being a field marshal in both attack and in defence.

Understandably, Jamaica has always idolised Brazilian football. Now decades after Cruyff and his Dutch mates reformatted football at FC Barcelona, that team is the model Jamaicans aspire to. Yet there are other ways to play football. Where the talent pool is smaller as in Jamaica's case, where pitch conditions mitigate against slick play, and where the player's assets are different, other pathways to success beg to be chosen.

The prime asset of the Jamaican athlete was on display on the first two days of the CAC Hockey qualifying tournament in Kingston. Both of Jamaica's teams played from a solid defensive backbone with yellow shirts speeding forward once the ball was recovered. This lightning transition from defence gave Jamaica two wins from two starts and the early advantage in the race to qualify for the 2018 CAC Games hockey tournament.

That quest continues until Sunday. That will give football coaches a chance to see what Nicholas Brown, the national men's team coach, and his women's team counterpart, Christine Bartley, are doing. The yellow shirts rush back to help in defence and burst forward to attack. Speedy legs are everywhere.

That gives Jamaica's passers of the ball multiple targets at which to aim.

Perhaps in an attempt to model Brazil and Barca, our football lacks pace in an apparent swap for displays of artful skill. The goal should be a balance between entertaining creativity and the Jamaica asset of blazing sprint speed. In these early days of the new Jamaica Football Federation administration, finding a workable blend, a playing philosophy tailor-made for Jamaica, is mission critical.

Hockey and football are similar and different at the same time. The former allows unlimited substitution of five players and shrewd coaches use this to keep fresh legs on the pitch. Football permits three substitutes a one-time entry into play. Hockey is played in quarters and not halves like football. Still, it is still eleven versus eleven with goals winning games. That last element makes the CAC Games hockey qualifying tournament a worthwhile watch for football's think-tank.

An injection of speed may not be highlight reel football. The outcome might very well not be Barca clothed in black, green and gold. What appears more likely, after a two-day glimpse at the CAC Hockey qualifying event, is a decisive counter-attacking style cut to fit Jamaica. In the middle of it might well be the next Allan 'Skill' Cole feeding the ball to the next Lindy Delaphena with the next Ian 'Pepe' Goodison leading the defence in front of current Jamaican stopper Andre Blake. As with the methodical world champions Germans, that type of winning football has a beauty all of its own.

- Hubert Lawrence has been making notes at track side since 1980.

The Jamaica Gleaner

2017 Melbourne 4 Nations

Men
NZL v JPN 1 - 1
AUS v PAK 9 - 1    

Women
USA v JPN 0 - 0
AUS v NED 0 - 2

FIH Match Centre

Kookas Hammer Pakistan In Melbourne Opener

Ben Somerford



The Kookaburras have opened the Melbourne leg of the International Festival of Hockey with a crushing 9-1 win over Pakistan on Wednesday evening.

Blake Govers scored a hat-trick, while Melbourne boy Aaron Kleinschmidt hit a double in the comprehensive win at the State Netball and Hockey Centre.

The result sets up Australia for Sunday’s gold medal match ahead of Thursday’s meeting with Zealand and the final group game against Japan on Saturday.

Kiran Arunasalam, who scored Australia’s sixth goal, commended Australia’s performance.

“It feels great to get a good win,” Melbourne-raised forward Arunasalam said.

“Nine goals is pretty special. We played well. Pakistan play hard so to score nine goals is perfect.”

Pakistan had the first chance of the game when Qadir Muhammad Arslan pushed his deflection wide.

Australia responded with two goals before quarter-time, with Jeremy Hayward scoring again from a penalty corner in the eighth minute.

Jake Whetton doubled the Kookaburras’ lead four minutes later with a fine angled effort.

Australia keeper Tristan Clemons denied Abu Mahmood from a penalty corner early in the second, before Kleinschmidt made it 3-0 with a tidy finish on the turn.

Kleinschmidt, Tom Wickham and Matt Dawson were all denied before the main interval as Australia piled on the pressure, but Pakistan pulled a goal back shortly after the break when Mahmood scored from a penalty corner.

Australia immediately responded through Kleinschmidt, before Govers made it 5-1 with a goal from a penalty corner in the 43rd minute.

Arunasalam added the sixth after Kleinschmidt’s good lead-up play, with Govers grabbing two final quarter goals to complete his hat-trick. Wickham also got the scoresheet.

Hockey Australia media release

Australia score nine in Pakistan's worst-ever defeat

Abdul Ghaffar

Pakistan were ripped apart by hosts Australia in their first match of the International Festival of Hockey at Melbourne's State Netball and Hockey Centre.

The 1-9 defeat is Pakistan's worst-ever in its hockey history. Pakistan's previous worst came when Holland defeated Pakistan 9-2 at the 2006 Champions Trophy in Terrassa, Spain. The team are a record four-time World Champions.

Australia, the reigning world champions, dominated the proceedings almost throughout the game.

Blake Govers, who scored a hat-trick, took two goals off penalty corners and a mesmerising field goal. Aaron Kleinschmidt had a brace for Australia.

The Kookaburras' first goal came in the eighth minute, off their first penalty corner, when an excellent top of the circle drill baffled Pakistan's defence and Hayward put his team ahead.

Within four minutes, Whetton doubled the advantage. After robbing a defender, he entered the circle from the left, immediately swerved and rattled the board.

The first half's last goal came off a wonderful Whetton assist. His inch perfect ball from the circle's top beat a crowded defence and Kleinschmidt easily scored from the middle of the scoring area.

In the first 30 minutes, Pakistan had just one open play attempt, when Arslan Qadir's full stretch effort eluded the target. They also wasted one penalty corner with the score at 3-0 at the end of the first half.

Two minutes into the second half, Abubakr brought a glimmer of hope for Pakistan when his forceful flick went high into the net off Pakistan's second penalty corner.

However, within a minute, the Aussies restored the three goal lead: Kleinschmidt had his second of the evening with a superb first time reverse-hander from the left of circle's edge which went into the roof of the far net.

Govers made it 5-1 with a penalty corner conversion with a flat forceful push.

Though Australia had most of the exchanges in the third quarter of the game, it still was the green shirts' best 15 minutes of the game. They had open play opportunities and a couple of penalty corners, and scored off one of them.

Pakistan's sloppy defending seemed to be theme of the day but in the last quarter, it completely melted away and conceded four more goals.

Arunasalam dived to avail a parallel pass sent from left before Govers scored the most memorable goal of the day.

Standing on the left side of the circle, the body feinted the defence and netted the ball, finding the narrowest of the narrow gaps between the near post and the net minder, all in one movement.

Soon, a reverse shot by Govers, across the face of the goal, was well flicked into the goal by Wickham.

Govers completed the tally and also his hat-trick in the last minute when his hard low push went past goalkeeper Amjad's left pad, off another penalty corner.

In the four-nation event, Pakistan play Japan — which held a strong New Zealand side 1-1 in their last match — on Thursday.

Scorers:

Australia: Blake Govers (3), Aaron Kleinschmidt (2), Jeremy Hayward, Jake Whetton, Kiran Arunasalam, Tom Wickham

Pakistan: Abubakr Mahmood

Dawn

Australia crush Pakistan 9-1 in International Festival of Hockey



LAHORE: Pakistan were crushed by hosts Australia 9-1 in their first match of the International Festival of Hockey at Melbourne’s State Netball and Hockey Centre on Wednesday. The defeat is Pakistan’s worst-ever in their hockey history. Pakistan’s previous worst came when Holland defeated Pakistan 9-2 at the 2006 Champions Trophy in Terrassa, Spain. The Green Shirts are a record four-time world champions. Australia, the reigning world champions, dominated the proceedings almost throughout the game. Blake Govers, who scored a hat-trick, took two goals off penalty corners and a mesmerising field goal. Aaron Kleinschmidt had a brace for Australia.

The Kookaburras’ first goal came in the eighth minute, off their first penalty corner, when an excellent top of the circle drill baffled Pakistan’s defence and Jeremy Hayward put his team ahead. Within four minutes, Jake Whetton doubled the advantage. After robbing a defender, he entered the circle from the left, immediately swerved and rattled the board. The first half’s last goal came off a wonderful Whetton assist. His inch perfect ball from the circle’s top beat a crowded defence and Kleinschmidt easily scored from the middle of the scoring area. In the first 30 minutes, Pakistan had just one open play attempt, when Arslan Qadir’s full stretch effort eluded the target. They also wasted one penalty corner with the score at 3-0 at the end of the first half. Two minutes into the second half, Abu Baker Mahmood brought a glimmer of hope for Pakistan when his forceful flick went high into the net off Pakistan’s second penalty corner.

However, within a minute, the Aussies restored the three goal lead: Kleinschmidt had his second of the evening with a superb first time reverse-hander from the left of circle’s edge which went into the roof of the far net. Govers made it 5-1 with a penalty corner conversion with a flat forceful push. Though Australia had most of the exchanges in the third quarter of the game, it still was the green shirts’ best 15 minutes of the game. They had open play opportunities and a couple of penalty corners, and scored off one of them.

Pakistan’s sloppy defending seemed to be theme of the day but in the last quarter, it completely melted away and conceded four more goals. Kiran Arunasalam dived to avail a parallel pass sent from left before Govers scored the most memorable goal of the day. Standing on the left side of the circle, the body feinted the defence and netted the ball, finding the narrowest of the narrow gaps between the near post and the net minder, all in one movement. Soon, a reverse shot by Govers, across the face of the goal, was well flicked into the goal by Tom Wickham. Govers completed the tally and also his hat-trick in the last minute when his hard low push went past goalkeeper Mohammad Amjad’s left pad, off another penalty corner. In the four-nation event, Pakistan play Japan – which held a strong New Zealand side 1-1 in their last match – on Thursday (today).

Scorers:

Australia: Blake Govers (3), Aaron Kleinschmidt (2), Jeremy Hayward, Jake Whetton, Kiran Arunasalam, Tom Wickham

Pakistan: Abu Baker Mahmood.

The Daily Times

Vantage Black Sticks secure draw in Melbourne


Photo: Grant Treeby

The Vantage Black Sticks Men have recorded a 1-1 draw with Japan in their opening game at the International Festival of Hockey in Melbourne.

New Zealand dominated much of the second half but couldn’t find a winning goal with Japan showing desperation in defence, particularly in the fourth quarter.

Japan opened the scoring in the 19th minute when Hirotaka Zendana sent a penalty corner flick low and hard into the side of the goal.

The Kiwis were quick to respond though with George Muir equalising the score three minutes later through a stunning forehand shot of the back foot from the top of the circle.

With the score level 1-1 at halftime, the Black Sticks controlled possession in the second half and created plenty of scoring chances but weren’t able to make them count.

Head coach Darren Smith said it was a slow start from both sides in their first game of the tournament but a pleasing second half.

“It was a bit of a feeling out process for us in the first half but George scored a great goal and we did get into our work in the latter stages of the game,” he said.

“We showed some real quality in the fourth quarter playing up tempo hockey, showing efficiency on the ball and generating opportunities. We could have snatched the result but just couldn’t get the finishing touches.”

The Vantage Black Sticks are back in action against hosts Australia at 8:00pm tomorrow night (NZ time), with live coverage on SKY Sport.

VANTAGE BLACK STICKS: 1 (George Muir)

JAPAN: 1 (Hirotaka Zendana)
Halftime: 1-1

Hockey New Zealand Media release

Hockeyroos Downed By World’s Best Dutch

Ben Somerford



The Hockeyroos have suffered a 2-0 defeat against world number one Netherlands at Melbourne’s State Netball and Hockey Centre on Wednesday night.

Caia van Maasakker’s first quarter penalty corner goal and Maartje Krekelaar’s third quarter strike on the break clinched the win for the Dutch.

However, Australia grew into the game after a first-half of few chances, with Brooke Peris coming close in the third when in one-on-one.

Hockeyroos skipper Emily Smith was enthused by the display.

“Obviously they’re the benchmark of international hockey so we’re going to learn a lot,” Smith said.

“Every time we come up against them it’s a fast-flowing game. To stay with them for such a long time was promising, now we’ve got to get a few more goal scoring opportunities and limit there’s which I thought we did quite well.

“Obviously they’re very skilful once they get in the circle so they punished us a couple of times.”

Van Maasakker opened the scoring in the ninth minute with the visitors having the better of the chances, while Australia had plenty of possession without bite.

Krekelaar fizzed a shot wide before half-time in a warning sign, converting a chance on the break in the 35th minute.

Peris almost responded for Australia three minutes later but dragged her shot wide when in one-on-one.

Rachael Lynch made some good saves to keep it at 2-0, before Renee Taylor had a good chance go narrowly wide.

Hockey Australia media release

USWNT and Japan Battle to a Draw in Opening IFOH Match



MELBOURNE, Australia – In the opening match of the 2017 International Festival of Hockey (IFOH), the now FIH Hero World Ranked No. 7 U.S. Women’s National Team faced No. 12 Japan. After splitting advantage in the first two quarters, the third and fourth saw promise but neither team scored in the contest to finish 0-0.

The USWNT came out providing a lot of hustle and pressure on Japan’s defensive unit, forcing them on their back foot early. It took a bit for both teams to gain control and get used to the pitch. A close chance came for USA in the 9th minute when Jill Witmer (Lancaster, Pa.) intercepted the ball, moved it forward with speed and got a hard shot off on goal. Japan’s Megumi Kageyama made the save and Loren Shealy (Charlotte, N.C.) gathered the rebound and sailed a backhand shot wide. In the last minute of the quarter, Japan’s Minami Shimizu worked possession deep into their attacking circle but USA’s goalkeeper Jackie Briggs (Robesonia, Pa.) was forced to make the save to keep it at a deadlock.

Quick off the second quarter starting whistle, Michelle Vittese (Cherry Hill, N.J.) went quickly, dumped a ball behind Japan’s defense to Anna Dessoye (Mountaintop, Pa.) who extended to send the ball across. Quick ball movement in the 20th minute lead to Japan’s first penalty corner that was dragged wide. USA continued to push the ball forward through the midfielders as they searched for open lanes but Japan’s defense shut down positive circle entries. In the final five minutes of the half Briggs was tested multiple times, once when a miss clear lead to a backhand shot and again when a shot sailed over the crossbar. A near chance came for Japan in the final minute of the quarter when Yuri Nagai received the ball right in front of Briggs but solid protection kept it at 0-0.

The beginning of the third quarter started static with a lot of play happening between the 25 yard lines. Possession started to open up 9 minutes in when USA had a close break after M. Vittese skillfully maneuvered forward and threading the ball into the circle where Erin McCrudden's (Yorktown Heights, N.Y.) cross went unanswered. Another chance came when Taylor West (Princess Anne, Md.) weaved through two Japan defenders and the ball ended up behind Japan’s goalkeeper but no result. Persistent, USA earned their first penalty corner in the 42nd minute. The unsuccessful attempt turned into a counter attack for Japan but Ali Froede (Burke, Va.) came up strong on defense.

Early on in the fourth quarter Japan stayed composed earning a few chances but Briggs was there to make the crucial saves. Continuing to absorb the pressure, USA’s defense dispossessed circle entry after circle entry before shifting control the other way. As the clock ticked down, USA put it into gear and charged forward searching for any circle outcome but the final drive fell short as the horn sounded with the score 0-0.

"We definitely showed growth from our first game versus Australia and were able to connect and create some good opportunities," said Janneke Schopman, USWNT Head Coach. "We were too inconsistent though and will focus on maintaining a higher level throughout the game against Australia tomorrow."

The U.S. Women’s National Team’s next game of IFOH is Thursday, November 9 at 3:30 a.m. ET against Australia. For more information about the 2017 International Festival of Hockey, including event schedule, results and live stream information, visit the IFOH Event Page by clicking here. #IFOH2017

USFHA media release

Danson named GB and England captain


Photo: Koen Suyk

Alex Danson has been named Great Britain & England’s women’s hockey team’s captain having been voted in by her teammates.

She will now lead England at the Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup in London next summer, as well as the Commonwealth Games in April.

The 32-year-old took the captaincy reigns for England on a temporary basis this summer and 16 years after making her international debut will now lead both England and Great Britain.

Alex made her first international appearance back in 2001 and has gone on to represent Great Britain and England a combined 286 times scoring 105 goals.

The forward's first task will be to lead England at the World League Finals in New Zealand between the 17 and 26 November with all England's matches being shown live on BT Sport.

Meanwhile Rio 2016 Olympic gold medallists Hollie Pearne-Webb and Laura Unsworth have both been appointed as vice-captains for England and Great Britain.

Danson said: "It is an unbelievable honour. I never thought that I would take on that kind of role. It’s a huge honour to have that mandate from the staff and players.

"To hear that from players, it’s the only place I hear their feedback and it’s important. It felt very, very special. I found out on the field and we had an email through from our sport psychologist and all the players came and gave me a massive hug. It was amazing and very special indeed.

"I try and encourage others to take the lead and to do our jobs as a team and lead by example and that’s very much how I’ll do it. It’s about showing responsibility, continuing to work so hard - that will be the main thing."

Head coach Danny Kerry added: “We have invested good time in looking at leadership and what it means for our context and our vision. The athlete squad have considered the qualities and skills needed, and the model of leadership that will serve us well over the next period.

“As part of that process the squad have given Alex Danson a huge mandate to be the captain of the squad. I’d like to put on record how well the athletes engaged in this process over many hours of discussion.

“On a personal level I am delighted for Alex, her depth of experiential learning, her understanding of herself and her passion for the game, the team, the players, will serve her and the team incredibly well over the next period.

“In High Performance Sport there is nothing more certain than the fact that there will be difficult times. Alex has the qualities and skills that will help us navigate those times and we all look forward to working and supporting each other in that endeavour."

Performance Director Ed Barney added: "The first year of the Tokyo cycle has been exciting, rewarding and demonstrated the potential that lies within the women's programme for repeated medal winning success. I wish Alex and the leadership group all the very best over the coming months and years - what will I'm sure, be an exciting time."

England Hockey Board Media release

Canterbury face fellow strugglers Bowdon Hightown


Bowdon Hightown's Julie Whiting in action against Leicester. Credit Andrew Smith

After holding local rivals Holcombe to a draw last weekend, Canterbury will be looking to use their improved form to beat second-bottom Bowdon Hightown in the Investec Women’s Hockey League Premier Division on Sunday.

With just two draws and two points to their name so far this season Canterbury are five points adrift at the foot of the table, but a victory on Sunday could ease their worries.

“We’re looking to take the form from the win last weekend and start building a bit of a run,” said Helen Fagg, co-captain of a Canterbury side who have several new young players in the squad as well as a new coach in Australian double Olympic gold medal-winner Kate Starre.

“The table shows that the gap between teams is very thin and anyone can beat anyone else. I don’t think the points we have reflect our performances so far, we’ve been unlucky with some results.”

Elsewhere, leaders Surbiton face an in-form Buckingham side who lie third but could move up to second with a victory and if the University of Birmingham lose at home to Leicester.

Other top flight action sees two matches featuring four teams who are all level on ten points; East Grinstead go to Clifton Robinsons, while Holcombe host Slough.

Currently third in the Investec Conference East, last season’s champions Wimbledon play host to leaders Hampstead & Westminster who will want to preserve their 100% record. Meanwhile, second-placed Sevenoaks entertain bottom of the table Chelmsford as they bid to keep pace with the leaders.

Beeston head to Sutton Coldfield with the aim of maintaining their perfect record in the Investec Conference North, while Brooklands Poynton are at home against Fylde and could go top if Beeston falter.

Meanwhile, bottom of the table Loughborough Students head to Liverpool Sefton side on Saturday in a match which is important to both side’s hopes of keeping clear of the relegation zone.

Trojans have conceded just two goals so far this season in the Investec Conference West and they will be looking to continue that form as they entertain Olton & West Warwicks on Saturday afternoon.

Elsewhere, an unbeaten Reading will host Oxford Hawks on Sunday, while third-placed Stourport go to Isca.

FIXTURES

Saturday, November 11 2017

Investec Women’s Hockey League

Investec Premier Division
Univ of Birmingham v Leicester 13:45
Surbiton v Buckingham 16:00

Investec Conference North
Brooklands Poynton v Fylde 11:45
Liverpool Sefton v Loughborough Students 14:00

Investec Conference East
Southgate v St Albans 14:00

Investec Conference West
Trojans v Olton & West Warwicks 12:00

Sunday, November 12 2017

Investec Premier Division
Canterbury v Bowdon 12:30
Clifton Robinsons v East Grinstead 13:00
Holcombe v Slough 14:00

Investec Conference North
Sutton Coldfield v Beeston 12:30
Timperley v Ben Rhydding 12:40
Wakefield v Univ of Durham 13:00

Investec Conference East
Bedford v Harleston Magpies 13:00
Barnes v Cambridge City 13:30
Sevenoaks v Chelmsford 13:30
Wimbledon v Hampstead & Westminster 14:00

Investec Conference West
Isca v Stourport 12:00
Swansea v Cannock 12:00
Gloucester City v Team Bath Buccaneers 13:00
Reading v Oxford Hawks 14:30

England Hockey Board Media release

Character of true champions

By S. Ramaguru


You’re going nowhere: Terengganu’s Muhammad Firhan Ashaari (right) stopping Kuala Lumpur’s Muhammad Ramadan Rosli in the Razak Cup match yesterday. — SAIFUL BAHRI / The Star

IPOH: Defending champions Terengganu came back from a two-goal deficit to edge Kuala Lumpur 3-2 and qualify for the semi-finals from Group A in Division One of the Razak Cup hockey tournament at the Azlan Shah Stadium.

KL shocked the east coast side by scoring two first-half field goals for a 2-0 lead. Mohd Shahril Saabah put the City boys ahead in the ninth minute before Mohd Amirul Aideed doubled their lead in the 15th minute.

Stung, Terengganu hit back through Faizal Saari (20th, penalty corner); Fitri Saari (41st, penalty); and Mohd Sufi Ismat (last minute, field goal).

Terengganu coach Sarjit Singh was hugely relieved after the match.

“The early goals put us under pressure and it was a battle all the way.

“My players managed to stay cool and take their chances.

“Every team has improved this year and we cannot take any team lightly.

“We have a two-day break before the semi-finals. We need to use it well to regain our focus and work on our game plan,” he said.

KL coach I. Vicknesweran said “it was our best game but we failed to make it count”.

“We held the lead but gave away soft goals.

“We allowed them back into the game instead of killing them off,” he said.

Melaka also had to come back from a goal down to stun Penang 2-1 and clinch the other semi-final spot from Group A.

Penang took the lead in the 19th minute through former national midfielder Jiwa Mohan’s penalty conversion.

Melaka equalised in the 33rd minute through Ismail Abu’s field goal.

Mohd Afifi Akmal then scored Melaka’s winner off a penalty corner set-piece move in the 52nd minute.

In Division Two, Selangor and Pahang qualified for the semi-finals from Group A.



The Star of Malaysia

Telkom coach Jos Openda seeks to restore team's winning mentality

By Elizabeth Mburugu


Telkom Jacky Mwangi(l) and sleeps as Vickings Carol Okoth(r) blocks (Jenipher Wachie)

Telkom coach Jos Openda has his work cut out as he seeks to restore a winning mentality in his team.

With the Africa Cup for Club Championships set for January 20 to 28 in Accra, Ghana, there is little room for any slip-ups.

The undisputed Africa hockey champions will be looking to defend their title and win a record 10th African gong.

However, they face an uphill task if Kenya’s performance at this year’s Africa Cup of Nations held in Ismailia, Egypt, a fortnight ago, is anything to go by.

The Kenyans performed poorly in the event, as South Africa, Ghana and Nigeria called the shots. Kenya finished fourth.

Openda, who will be out to guide Telkom to their fifth consecutive title, told The Standard Sports that Kenya’s poor show was a call to his charges to train harder.

“When Ghana and Nigeria beat Kenya, it boosted their confidence and was a warning to us. We need to work harder.

"We expect stiff competition from them because they have proved they are better than us at the national level, but at Telkom, we do things differently,” he said.

Openda admitted that after watching video footage of his players in action at the continental event, he realised they all struggled throughout the competition.

“A lot needs to be done, especially with my nine players, who were part of the national team, because they all struggled and failed to get it right in all aspects of the game.”

He added that they had intensified their training after Kenya’s dismal output in Egypt, with the aim of having the players back in shape ahead of the tough task.

“I had players in every unit and we need to work on all aspects of the game from goalkeeping, defence, midfield and attack because nothing seemed to work out.”

The nine-times Africa champions will face stiff competition from bitter rivals Ghana Revenue Authority, who they have beaten in the past five finals to lift the national crown.

Telkom Assistant coach Josephine Ataro said playing in Ghana would be a tough test.

“Playing in Ghana is not easy. The last time we were there, the results did not go our way. But we have matured in the game and I believe we have what it takes to defend our title,” Ataro said. 

Meanwhile, Kenyan men have dropped six places to 42nd in the recently released International Hockey Federation (FIH) world rankings.

This follows their dismal show at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations that saw them finish fourth behind winners South Africa, Egypt and Ghana.

South Africa (15) top the continental standings.

Egypt are second in Africa and Ghana third.

Kenyan women retained their third-place slot in Africa and are 40th in the world.

The Standard Online

African triumph a big deal for UJ hockey star


University of Johannesburg hockey star Tyson Dlungwana has set his sights on keeping his place in the national squad for the Commonwealth Games and World Cup next year. Photo: Saspa

University of Johannesburg hockey star Tyson Dlungwana has described his role in South Africa’s triumph in the Africa Cup as the biggest moment of his fledgling career.

The 20-year-old midfielder was a member of the national squad which annexed the continental title last month, overturning a 1-0 deficit to defeat hosts Egypt 2-1 in the final in Ismailia.

That triumph secured the men’s team a place in the World Cup next year, while Dlungwana said he would also be working hard in the months ahead to fight for a spot in the Commonwealth Games squad.

“This is the best achievement of my career so far,” said the second-year education student, who grew up in Maritzburg but is now in residence at UJ. 

“It is a big step forward for me and I just hope I’ve done enough to solidify my spot in the side.

“My major goals for next year are to be in the team for the Commonwealth Games in Australia (in April) and the World Cup in India (November-December).”

Dlungwana said he enjoyed the experience of playing in Egypt and had learnt to handle several challenges.

“One of the first things I realised was how fortunate we are in South Africa to have the infrastructure we do for hockey,” he said.

“There were some adjustments we had to make, such as getting used to the local food, which was a bit different from home.”

He added that there was also the matter of gelling with his teammates as they were together for just three days prior to the tournament.

Before the UJ player turns his attention to next year’s goals, he said his focus would be on the second edition of the Premier Hockey League, which begins on November 25.

In this competition, the country’s leading players are divided into franchises that play a series of matches until December 12.

Dlungwana said he would be turning out for the Golden Gate Gladiators.

“The Premier Hockey League is a massive step forward for SA hockey. We really appreciate the sponsors who have got involved as it provides a lot more exposure to hockey.

“It will definitely help the sport to grow and will encourage more children to take up the game.

“Last year’s inaugural competition was great and I’m really looking forward to it again.”

Dlungwana was delighted to receive an accolade at the UJ Sports Gala last month, being named the age category sportsman of the year.

“For me, that means I was consistent during the year and also brings a sigh of relief knowing that my hard work has paid off. I’m honoured and grateful to be recognised in this way.”

Fullstop Communications media release

Savita will get govt. support, says Sports Minister Rathore


Savita Punia. 

Unemployed for the last nine years despite her on-field exploits, there is good news for Savita Punia as Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore on Wednesday assured the Indian women’s hockey team goalkeeper of all the support she needs.

“Have asked my team to obtain details on our #AsiaCup2017 star, Savita Punia. Will ensure she receives all the support possible from Govt. Our motto: #SuvidhaAurSamman,” Rathore, an Olympic silver medallist in shooting, tweeted.

Savita played a crucial role in India’s triumph in the recent women’s Asia Cup and secure a berth in next year’s World Cup, pulling off the final winning save against China.

India had failed to qualify for the last World Cup and finished ninth in the 2010 edition.

Savita, who hails from Hisar, made her international debut in 2008 and has completed 150 caps in Asia Cup. She started playing hockey as per the wish of her grandfather Mahinder Singh and starred in India’s bronze medal effort in Junior Asia Cup in 2009.

“I am very happy that I could contribute in team’s win. I (will) work harder to bring more laurels and will not let my unemployment affect my game,” Savita had said after the team’s return from Japan. “I have been trying for a job for the last nine

The Hindu

Ireland's Mikie Watt Retires From International Hockey



Mikie Watt has announced his retirement from international hockey. Watt amassed an impressive 201 caps for the Green Machine, having earned the first of those against Poland in July 2006. Watt scored 54 times for Ireland and sits 6th on the Green Machine all time goal scorers list.

Watt heaped praise on those who influenced his early hockey-playing days “It is very difficult to thank everybody as there are so many people who have helped me throughout my hockey career. I would like to give a special mention to Graeme Francey, David Wilson and Haydn Taylor who got me started in the sport and continued to offer guidance and support whenever I needed it. These individuals together with a number of guys at Instonians hockey club have had a huge impact on my development since I was a youngster and have continued to support me over the years, despite me not being able to give them full pay back by representing the club. For this I am very grateful”.

Mikie Watt was an ever-present member of the Green Machine that made history over the past few years, both at the Europeans and the Olympics “The obvious highlight of my career was lining out at the Olympics in Rio 2016. After 2 failed attempts where we came so close, this agony made it feel even more special to play on the biggest stage of all with a group of guys so deserving. Winning bronze at the Europeans in 2015 was another career highlight and seeing the team climb up the rankings over the years has been a joy”.

Head Coach Craig Fulton was quick to praise the role Watt has played for the Green Machine “We would like to congratulate and thank Mikie wholeheartedly on a fantastic International hockey career with the Irish Senior Men’s Team. The time commitment that goes into being an Irish international hockey player and managing a career in the modern era is a big ask.

Michael played an integral part in helping the team qualify for and compete in the 2016 Rio Olympics, and help get Irelands ranking to its highest ever of 9th in the world.

We wish Mikey all the best with his future endeavours”.

Mikie continued by paying tribute to the staff behind the scenes “I would like to thank all the coaches and management who I worked with for their tireless work and patience with a special mention to Dave Passmore, Paul Revington, Craig Fulton, Jonny Caren, Peter Jackson, Stephen Barry, Lisa Costley and Niamh Maguire who have had such a huge influence on my career”.

Green Machine captain David Harte also recognised Mikie’s contribution "I would like to commend Mikie for everything that he has brought to the Irish Senior Men’s Team. I was fortunate enough to play alongside Mikie for over 15 years, from Irish u16 boys right through to walking out 'shoulder to shoulder' at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. In that timeframe, I saw his growth as a dedicated, top quality hockey player with an incredible internal drive that enabled him to represent Ireland over 200 times. Mikie's qualities as a clinical striker are known throughout the hockey world and he will be missed within our squad, both on and off the pitch. I wish Mikie all the very best for the future."

Watt in turn concluded by acknowledging his team mates “Finally I must thank all the players during my 12 years in the squad. The senior guys when I first entered the squad, but especially the group of guys I have played with since a very young age. I am very lucky to have played in a time with such a high level of talented and driven individuals, and this is something I do not take for granted and I view as a massive privilege. I look forward to seeing the squad continue to climb the rankings and wish them all the best for the upcoming World Cup in India”.

All at Hockey Ireland thank Mikie for his commitment to Irish hockey and wish him every success in the future.

Irish Hockey Association media release

Wonder Woman Act: USA Umpire Driscoll Improves in FIH Ranks

Content Courtesy of Junior Premier Hockey



Have you ever wondered about the umpires you see on television during the Olympic Games? Who are you? How did they get there? Why would they ever want to endure the stress behind the whistle? We stopped to talk with Junior Premier Hockey (JPH), USA Field Hockey and newly upgraded FIH Promising List Umpire Mary Driscoll about her journey and some of these questions: Why umpire?

Driscoll started her career in hockey in sixth grade in a physical education class.  “I fell in love with hockey and signed up the following year to play,” stated Driscoll.  She had a tough choice in high school though, as she had grown up swimming and had always dreamed of attending Penn State University as a swimmer. Driscoll told us, “as my love for hockey grew, I decided in tenth grade I wanted to play field hockey there instead of swim.” Score one for the hockey community!

After she graduated college in 2004, she wasn’t quite sure where to go with the sport.  She stated, “[after] college I coached [hockey], but as I started a family I felt like coaching was really difficult. I had no control over my schedule.” The one place she never expected to go next fell right in her lap.

“One night I was looking online for other ways to give back to the game of hockey, and my husband and I were laughing talking about becoming an umpire,” remembered Driscoll. “As a joke, I decided to take the high school test to umpire and then the next season I started. It was funny for me to even consider umpiring, because I was the player on the field who was always giving the umpire the mean looks and occasionally getting put in time out.”

Occasionally getting put in time outs?  Haven’t we all been there?



Driscoll’s career as an umpire took off, despite her reputation of ‘giving the umpire mean looks’. Not shortly after her high school rules test ‘joke’, Driscoll got a call from USA Field Hockey’s Director of Umpiring, Steve Horgan, asking if she was available to umpire at the Pan American Hockey Federation’s (PAHF) 2012 Junior Pan American Games in Guadalajara, Mexico. As is only right, Driscoll said she needed some time to discuss this with her family.  “Since I have three kids, I must ask my ‘team’ of help first, and not once have they said no.”  Being a Division I and Big Ten athlete, Driscoll only knows one way to compete, and that’s all in. With her family and ‘team of help’ on board, she accepted her first appointment in September 2012 and immediately took off.

Driscoll earned her FIH badge, the first step in the international umpiring ladder, at her very first tournament. Shortly after, she was off on another appointment to Australia for the Australian Youth Olympics Festival. From there, she’s umpired at the Pan American Cup, Pan American Youth Championships, two FIH Hockey World League Round 1 tournaments, Hawke’s Bay Cup, and multiple indoor and outdoor test matches.

The FIH ladder that Driscoll had just begun is a steep one. Her FIH badge is the first step of a five-step ranking.  From FIH International Umpire, a mark of 7.0, you must increase your score in increments of 0.5 to attain the next grade: Promising Umpire List, 7.5; Grade 1, 8.0; World Development Panel, 8.5; and World Panel, 9.0.

Driscoll’s career, not unlike any other athlete or umpire, has had its highs and lows.  Most recently in April 2017, she received some fantastic news. During the Hawke’s Bay Cup, a four nations series with some of the top teams in the world, she received her Promising Umpire List mark of 7.5. Driscoll, however, did not react with excitement immediately. During her past two tournaments, she had already received evaluations of 7.5 twice, and twice did not receive the upgrade to the Promising Umpire List (PUL). These two disappointing moments gave Driscoll some doubt.

“I was very disappointed when I received the score the second time and didn't receive my PUL,” stated Driscoll. She didn’t give up though and she used these experiences to push her forward, stating, “You grow from those experiences and it's all about opportunities.”  When she finally received her PUL letter she recalls shedding a quick tear and then she emailed her team to thank them.

“I had a great last tournament at a Four Nations in New Zealand and I felt like if I wasn't given my PUL after that tournament, then I was never going to get it,” said Driscoll. “Umpiring four top teams in the world with an amazing [Umpire Manager], I felt like this was the best opportunity to get my upgrade. Getting my PUL just meant a small step closer to my bigger goals.”

How does she do it all?  This real-life Wonder Woman plays the role of PUL umpire, wife, mother and small business owner in the form of a personal trainer.  Driscoll told JPH, “Balance - my house is very organized or we wouldn't survive. We use calendars and charts to get us through our busy schedule. I have three kids (11, 9, 7) and they are into every sport you can imagine!”  This alone sounds like a lot. How can she possibly fit hockey into this daily schedule?  “I think having a family and business makes my hockey career stay in perspective,” continued Driscoll. “I think if I only had hockey I would drive myself crazy waiting for my next appointment. I love that I have so much in my life and that hockey, though it's a major part, it's not my entire life. I know at the end of a tournament I have a lot to come home to, and that makes me work even harder at tournaments.”

With being away so often during the NCAA collegiate season and then even more for FIH and PAHF tournaments, it must take a toll on her family. How do her kids respond to her being away for tournaments?

“I sacrifice so much at a tournament and miss so many of my kids’ activities, that I want to make the most of my time when I'm away from home,” said Driscoll. “I also have a deal with my kids that when I return from a trip I come into their classrooms and talk about where I have just visited. I bring candy from that country and I know my kids feel pride that their mom has big dreams and works hard for them.”

She recently started her own business, Mary’s Health and Fitness, where she offers services as a personal trainer. How does being a personal trainer help her umpiring?

“Being a Personal Trainer is a huge advantage for the physical aspect of umpiring,” commented Driscoll. “I am working out a lot through my week as well as training for triathlons. When I travel to tournaments, I have the tools to keep my body healthy and ready for games.”

When asked what’s next, Driscoll had a great response, “Waiting for the next opportunity!”

Junior Premier Hockey and USA Field Hockey would like to congratulate Driscoll on her recent promotion and wish her the best of luck in her future appointments. We look forward to seeing you on the courts at JPIL 2018 and beyond!

At the beginning of October, USA Field Hockey highlighted four USA representatives who moved up in FIH Official Ranks. Below is the most up to date USA Rankings:

FIH Umpiring Committee Representation in the USA (as of November 2017):

Outdoor Hockey

    World Panel – Amy Baxter (W)
    World Development Panel – Gus Soteriades (M) & Maggie Giddens, Suzi Sutton (W)
    Grade 1 – Saleem Aaron, Grant Hundley (M) & Stephanie Judefind (W)
    Promising Umpire List – Maggie Befort & Mary Driscoll (W)
    International – Ridge Bair, Benjamin Peters, Lance Sarabia (M)

Indoor Hockey

    Grade 1 – Gus Soteriades (M) & Stephanie Judefind (W)
    International – Maggie Giddens (W)

FIH Tournament Directors/Technical Officers Representation in the USA (as of September 2017):

    Category 2 – Lurah Hess (W)
    Explanation: TD FIH World Level Events (Tier 2 Properties/CF Championships/Qualifying Tournaments for World Level Events

    Category 3 – Rene Zelkin (W)

FIH Umpires Managers Representation in the USA (as of September 2017):

    Grade 1 – Steve Horgan (M Outdoor)
    Potential for International – Dean Wenrich (M Indoor)

FIH Video Umpires Representation in the USA (as of June 2017):

    International – Grant Hundley (M) & Amy Baxter (W)

USFHA media release