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News for 12 October 2019

All the news for Saturday !2 October 2019


Griffiths reaches 100 caps but GB's men lose final Test to Spain


Chris Griffiths

Chris Griffiths’ 100th international appearance did not quite go to plan as Great Britain’s men lost their second and final Test to Spain as the series finished level at 1-1.

Having seen three of his compatriots achieve milestones in a 1-0 victory yesterday, today saw the turn of the forward as he reached a century of caps for England and GB.

Fellow attacker Alan Forsyth found himself on the scoresheet at the end of the first quarter, levelling seconds after Marc Bolto had given Spain the lead.

Ricardo Sanchez restored the advantage for the hosts midway through the second quarter and the game remained that way until the final 47th minute when Alvaro Iglesias doubled their lead.

Roc Oliva then added a fourth six minutes from time to give Spain a first victory over GB in normal time since 2014.

Next up for Danny Kerry’s side it’s the FIH Olympic Qualifier, where they will take on Malaysia in two matches at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre on 2-3 November as they bid to book their spot at Tokyo 2020.

Spain 4 (2)
Bolto (14', FG); Sanchez (23', FG); Iglesias (47', FG), Oliva (54', PC)

Great Britain 1 (1)
Forsyth (15', FG)

Starting XI: Gibson, Ames, Weir, Ward, Roper, Dixon (C), Condon, Sanford, Sorsby, Calnan, Draper
Subs (used): Willars, Forsyth, Martin, Griffiths, Waller, Gall
Subs (unused): Pinner, Sloan, Ansell

Great Britain Hockey media release



GB Hockey team beaten 4-1 by Spain as Test series is drawn


GB are hoping for another Olympic opportunity, having not progressed from the group stages at Rio 2016

Great Britain's Test series in Spain finished level at 1-1 after the hosts secured a 4-1 victory in Valencia.

GB won the Thursday's first match 1-0 but were a goal down after 14 minutes.

Alan Forsyth levelled seconds later but Spain regained the lead midway through the second quarter and scored again after 47 minutes, before Roc Oliva added a fourth six minutes from time.

GB next face Malaysia in two games at Lee Valley on 2-3 November as they bid to book an Olympic place at Tokyo 2020.

Following Ian Sloan's 100th combined appearance for England and GB and Phil Roper's 50th GB cap on Thursday, there was another milestone in the British team.

East Grinstead's Chris Griffiths appeared as a substitute to record his 100th international appearance for England and GB but his team could not deny Spain a first victory against them in normal time since 2014.

BBC Sport



Kane Russell bags four goals as Black Sticks Men put together a clinical performance



Kane Russell has scored four goals in match two of the TSB Community Trust Series as the Vantage Black Sticks have run away with a 6-3 win over a determined Japanese side. Russell was named the Kowalewski Holdings Limited Man of the Match for his massive effort on both ends of the turf. 

The Vantage Black Sticks still smarting from the first match came out in match two focused and determined, their screen was outstanding and in the first minute they forced a Japanese turnover, Kane Russell then eliminated several Japan defenders before smashing a reverse shot into the goal. Moments later Stephen Jenness finished off some classy passing in the attacking circle as he made the score 2-0 to the Vantage Black Sticks. The Japan side completed a highly entertaining first quarter when in the fifth minute Hiromasa Ochiai jumped on a New Zealand turnover and crashed a forehand shot into the Kiwi goal bringing Japan back within touching distance in the match.

New Zealand then continued to show their attacking flair at the start of the second quarter as Jacob smith found himself on the end of some more outstanding passing by the New Zealand team as his goal put New Zealand in a commanding position in the match. Kane Russell scored his second off a powerful drag flick that Yusuke Takano couldn’t keep out of the goal. Heading into the half time break the Vantage Black Sticks had put themselves into a 3-1 position. 

Japan opened the scoring at the start of the second half when a powerful low drag flick found its way past the New Zealand runners and squeezed into the goal. The Black Sticks bounced back and earned a penalty corner, the subsequent drag flick found the foot of the Japan defender resulting in a penalty stroke. Kane Russell then calmly stepped up to the spot and converted the stroke to reestablish the kiwi lead. The kiwis continued playing with speed on the attacking end of the field and went close on several occasions as the third quarter wound down.

The New Zealand team went into the final quarter with a 5-2 lead and looking like a rejuvenated team in the second match of the TSB Community Trust Series. Russell scored his fourth goal of the match in the 48th minute when he converted his second penalty corner of the game. Japan managed to score a second drag flick goal at the end of the match, however, it was too late as the New Zealand side ran away with the contest 6-3.

The series will return for the third match of the TSB Community Trust Series on Monday at 6:30 pm.

Vantage Black Sticks Men 6 (Kane Russell, 1, 29, 34, 48 min, Stephen Jenness 2 min, Jacob Smith 19 min)
Japan 3 (Hiromasa Ochiai 5 min, Hirotaka Zendana 33, 60 min)

Hockey New Zealand Media release



Kane Russell four-goal haul helps Black Sticks bounce back to level series with Japan


Kane Russell bagged four goals as the Black Sticks men's hockey team scored a series-levelling win over Japan in Stratford on Saturday. (FILE PIC) DAVID ROWLAND/PHOTOSPORT

A four-goal haul from Kane Russell has helped the Black Sticks men's hockey team to a series-levelling 6-3 win over Japan in Stratford on Saturday.

Still smarting from their 2-1 defeat in the opening test on Thursday night, the hosts came out focused and determined, and that translated into a dominant bounce-back performance.

Right from the outset, New Zealand were in the ascendancy, with a first-minute turnover seeing Russell pounce, beat several defenders and smash a reverse shot into goal.

And in the blink of an eye, the Kiwis doubled their advantage in just the second minute, as Stephen Jenness finished off some classy passing in the attacking circle.

Not to be outdone, though, Japan completed the scoring in a highly entertaining first quarter, with a fifth-minute response from Hiromasa Ochiai, who jumped on a Black Sticks turnover and crashed a forehand shot into goal to bring the visitors back into it.

The hosts continued to show their attacking flair at the start of the second quarter, with Jacob Smith finding himself on the end of some more outstanding passing, with his goal putting the Sticks two goals ahead once more.


The Black Sticks had plenty of goals to celebrate as they bounced back in style in the second test of the series. (FILE PIC) IAN HITCHCOCK/GETTY IMAGES

Russell then scored his second from a powerful drag flick that Yusuke Takano couldn't keep out, and the home side had themselves a 4-1 halftime lead.

Japan kept hanging in, opening the second-half scoring when a powerful low drag flick from Hirotaka Zendana found its way past the New Zealand runners and squeezed between the posts.

But the Black Sticks responded just a minute later, with a drag flick from a penalty corner connecting with a Japan foot, and Russell then converting the ensuing penalty stroke for his hat-trick, as the hosts went to three-quarter-time 5-2 ahead.

Russell then bagged his fourth goal in the 48th minute, after converting his second penalty corner, before Zendana grabbed a consolation double on fulltime from a drag flick.

The third match of the series is on Monday evening, with the fourth and final test a day later.

Stuff



Malaysia look to return to Olympic hockey after 20 year absence



Continuing our series of video interviews with the teams that will participate in the upcoming FIH Hockey Olympic qualifiers, Malaysia (FIH World Ranking:11) captain Mohamad Sukri Abdul Mutalib and goalkeeper Subramiam Kumar look ahead to his team’s all-important two-match clash with Great Britain (WR:7), with a place at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 on the line. The crucial matches will take place at the Lee Valley Hockey Stadium, London on 2/3 November 2019, with the matches taking place at 16:30 (GMT) and 15:00 (GMT) respectively. A transcription of the interview can be found below. 

The FIH Hockey Olympic qualifiers will be taking place very soon. How is your team preparing for these hugely important matches?

Mohamad Sukri Abdul Mutalib: So far the team preparation has been really, really good. We are all looking forward to the game. It is a big game and it is a crucial game.

What are your thoughts about your opponent in the FIH Hockey Olympic qualifiers and how is your squad feeling about these matches?

Subramiam Kumar: These are the Olympic Qualifiers which means they are not easy, they are always tough. And of course, everyone is out to win the qualifiers because they want to be at the Olympics. We will be competing against Great Britain which is never easy but for me, whether you meet Canada or New Zealand or Spain or Great Britain it will be tough. So we will need consistency in our upcoming two matches in London. For us the preparation, focus and confidence will be very important for these coming two matches.

What can we expect to see from your team at the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers?

Mohamad Sukri Abdul Mutalib: Spirit and desire because we really want to win the game and qualify for [Olympic Games] Tokyo 2020

What would qualifying for the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 mean to you and your team?

Subramiam Kumar: It is very, very important for us. Not only for me but also for the team. For 19 years we have been away from the Olympic Games. Everybody knows the last time was in Sydney [2000]. For me, this is my fifth Olympic Qualifier so it is very important for me and also some senior players who really want to make it for this Olympics and have a good ending [to their careers]. And also for the hockey squad, the future hockey squads and Malaysia Hockey, it is very important to qualify for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic [Games].

Each qualifier consists of two back-to-back matches which will be played in the same venue. The winners of these FIH Hockey Olympic qualifiers will qualify for the 2020 Olympic hockey tournaments which will be staged in Japan’s capital city from 25 July to 7 August next year and involve 12 Men’s and 12 Women’s teams.

#Tokyo2020
#RoadToTokyo
#GiftOfHockey

FIH site



Focus on qualifying for the Olympics, Agong tells Malaysian Tigers


Al-Sultan Abdullah was speaking at a Hi-Tea hosted by him and the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah for the national hockey squad at Istana Negara today.-Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: The Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah wants the national hockey team to forget about the failure to qualify for 2016 Rio Olympics and instead focus on playing in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Al-Sultan Abdullah said the team, under head coach Roelant Oltmans, needs to win two play-off matches against Great Britain for a 2020 Olympics slot at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre in London on Nov 2 and 3.

He said it is the hope of all Malaysians to see the national squad qualify for the largest multi-sport event in the world and he prayed victory would favour the Malaysian Tigers.

"I hope all players will continue to give their best.

"Make sure that you are all super fit...eat sufficiently. InsyaAllah, after departing (for London), you will all play for the country, play for the whole rakyat of Malaysia and not forgetting for the king and queen of Malaysia," he said.

Al-Sultan Abdullah was speaking at a Hi-Tea hosted by him and the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah for the national hockey squad at Istana Negara today.

The royal couple were met by the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal.

In this regard, Al-Sultan Abdullah who was MHC president from 2008 to 2015, also planned to invite other national athletes to attend similar programmes during his reign as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

"I am looking forward to today's event...to invite athletes or national players. Not just the hockey team.

"Nonetheless, today is rather special. Just to let you know you are the first team to come to Istana Negara to have tea with me," he said.

For the record, Great Britain under coach Danny Kerry will be featuring players from world number seventh, England, Wales (18th) and Scotland (19) while the national squad are now ranked 11th in the world.

Malaysia last qualified for Olympics in the Sydney 2000 edition.

New Straits Times



Rizwan Sr to lead Pakistan in 2020 Olympic qualifier against Holland

Mohammad Yaqoob



LAHORE: The national selection committee, headed by former Olympian Manzoor Junior, has announced a 19-member Pakistan squad for the challenging Olympics-2020 qualifying round, to be played against world hockey giants Holland in Amsterdam on Oct 26 and 27. Rizwan Ahmad Senior has been named as captain.

Pakistan is currently placed at a poor 17th spot in the world hockey rankings but has been handed a very tough draw by FIH against third-placed Holland, mainly due to PHF not fulfilling its commitment of national team’s participation in the first Pro League early this year due to lack of funds.

It was due to this offense that FIH penalised Pakistan who went down from 13th to 17th place in world rankings and now face the formidable Holland in qualifiers.

Earlier, the national selection committee comprising Kaleemullah, Khalid Hameed and Nasir Ali watched the one-day trials at the outer ground of the National Hockey Stadium. After watching 35 probables in the trials, chief selector Manzoor Junior announced the 19-member teams, including seven new players.

Muhammad Irfan as 19th player will join the national team in Germany, but currently he is facing some visa problems. Before competing against Holland, Pakistan will play two practice matches against Germany on Oct 22 and 23 before leaving for Amsterdam via road.

Manzoor Jr who was captain of the Pakistan team which won the gold medal at 1984 Olympics, said the strong Dutch team are a force to be reckoned. However, he hoped Pakistan would play its best game to book a place in Olympics which will be held in Tokyo, Japan in 2020.

He said the team was selected in consultation with head coach Khawaja Junaid and added that the boys are fit after attending the 40-day long training camp in Lahore.

It may be mentioned here that in their last clash, Holland thrashed Pakistan in the World Cup 2018 in India by 5-1.

Meanwhile, head coach Khawaja Junaid disclosed that seven new players have been included in the squad.

He said both the matches against Holland are of important nature as it is Pakistan’s last chance to qualify for the Olympic Games 2020.

Pakistan had failed to qualify for the last Olympic Games 2016 held in Brazil.

Squad:

Rizwan Ahmad Senior (captain).

Goalkeepers: Amjad Ali, Waqar Ahmad.

Full-backs: Mubashar Ali, Imad Shakeel Butt, Rizwan Ali.

Half-backs: Moin Shakeel, Tasawar Abbas, Rashid Mahmood, Abu Bakar, Azfar Yaqoob.

Forwards: Ijaz Ahmad, Muhammad Irfan, Umar Bhutta, Rana Sohail, Rana Waheed, Ali Shan, Ghazanfar Ali, Immad Anjum.

Dawn



PHF names national squad for Olympic 2020 qualifiers

Pakistan team will play Olympic qualifying matches against Netherlands on October 26 and 27



LAHORE - Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) on Friday announced the 19-member national squad for the Olympic 2020 qualifiers after the conclusion of the trials held here at National Hockey Stadium.

Total 35 camp players were tested in five sessions of 15 minutes each. The trials were observed by the national selection committee comprising Manzoor Hussain Junior (chief selector), Kaleem Ullah, Ayaz Mahmood, Khalid Hameed, Nasir Ali and Waseem Feroze (members).

PHF President Brig (R) Khalid Sajjad Khokhar and Secretary Muhammad Asif Bajwa were also present on the occasion. Pakistan will play two friendly matches against Germany on October 22 and 23. They will then depart for Netherlands to compete in the Olympic qualifying matches against the hosts on October 26 and 27. Rizwan Senior will lead the side.

The 19-member national team includes Waqar (gk), Amjad Ali (gk), Mubashar Ali, Rizwan Ali, Ammad Butt (vc), Abu Bakar Mahmood, Moin Shakeel, Tasawar Abbas, Azfar Yaqoob, Rashid Mehmood, Ali Shan, Ajaz Ahmad, Umer Bhutta, Muhammad Rizwan Senior (c), Rana Sohail, Rana Waheed, Ghazanfar Ali, Hammad Anjum. Irfan Senior will be stand by.

The team management includes Olympian Khawaja Junaid (manager/head coach), Wasim Ahmed, Zaheer Ahmad Babar, Ajmal Khan Lodhi and Sameer Hussain (coaches), Nadeem Lodhi (video analyst), Asad Abbas Shah (doctor) and Jesse Wilson Workman (trainer).

Talking to The Nation, Chief Selector Manzoor Hussain Junior said that Pakistan hockey is on consistent decline due to lack of funds. “The government and private sector have to come forward to the rescue of the national game, which if gets proper patronage by the government as well as corporate sector, it is my promise that Pakistan hockey will be back to track and our team will start producing better results and hopefully, they will pose serious challenges to top teams in 2024 Olympics.”

Manzoor, golden player of his era, said: “Our main focus is on grassroots level and under the dynamic leadership of PHF President Brig (R) Khalid Sajjad Khokhar, we are trying to find and groom the best talent, which if provided the best facilities and maximum international exposure, will be more than capable of beating any given opponent at international level.”

The Nation



Nor Saiful's boys eye podium finish

By Jugjet Singh


Nor Saiful Zaini (2nd-left) gives instructions to his players during the training session in Johor Baru. - NSTP/Hairul Anuar Rahim.

The Sultan of Johor Cup in Johor Baru, which starts today, will be a good test for Malaysia ahead of the Junior World Cup qualifiers.

Nor Saiful Zaini’s team will be up against defending champions Britain, Australia, India, New Zealand and Japan in the annual Under-21 event.

And these players will be eligible for the Junior Asia Cup in Dhaka on June 4-14 next year, which is a Junior World Cup qualifier.

“We will try to finish on the podium to erase the memory of finishing fifth last year. This is important as some of the best junior teams in the world are competing here,” said Saiful.

Malaysia will open against India today (8.35pm) at the Taman Daya Stadium.

India coach B.J. Kariappa was confident of his team’s chances, saying: “The players have been put through strenuous training and have improved. However, they will have to find a way to apply what they have been doing in training on the field,” Kariappa told Times of India.

After India, Saiful’s boys will take on Australia tomorrow, followed by New Zealand (Tuesday), Britain (Wednesday) and Japan (Friday).

New Straits Times



India face hosts Malaysia in campaign opener with eyes set on going one step further than last year


India face hosts Malaysia in their opening fixture of the 2019 Sultan of Johor Cup. Image credit: sultanjohorcup.com.my

Johor Bahru, Malaysia: Eyes firmly set on completing last year's unfinished task, a determined India will open its campaign against hosts Malaysia in the ninth Sultan of Johor Cup junior hockey tournament at Johor Bahru on Saturday.

India, led by the talented defender Mandeep Mor, would look to start the prestigious tournament on a winning note.

After a highly-successful round-robin stage last year, India lost to Great Britain in the final and come this year, the Indians would be eager to go one step further.

India defeated Malaysia 2-1 in their opening match last year before registering convincing 7-1, 1-0, 5-4 wins over New Zealand, Japan and Australia respectively.

But Great Britain proved to be a thorn in the flesh for the Indians last year as they lost 2-3 against them in the last round-robin match before succumbing again in the final.

"We did win the silver medal in the last edition but we were not satisfied at all. We felt we were the best team in the tournament, and our performances in the round-robin stages showed that. But eventually we lost two matches against Great Britain narrowly. This year we are determined to produce consistent performances and win the tournament," said Mandeep.

The Indian captain said they are looking to put up some quality performances in the tournament.

"It is a huge tournament at the junior level. We start against the hosts, and we are hoping we can repeat last year's feat as we beat them 2-1 to start our campaign on a positive note," he said.

"We have worked hard in the national camp and the team is really excited to produce quality performances here."

India and Malaysia have faced each other on 10 previous occasions since 2011 at the junior level, out of which the Indians have won the last seven matches, while the hosts have only registered one win while two matches ended in draws.

The ninth Sultan of Johor will feature the same six teams from last edition.

After Malaysia, India will play New Zealand on Sunday, Japan on 15 October, 2017 winners Australia on 16 October and Great Britain on 18 October.

Firstpost



Premiership and Scottish Cup weekend action awaits



Titwood is again the centre of attraction in this weekend`s Premiership action, first up is the women`s clash between league champions Edinburgh University and unbeaten Clydesdale Western, to be followed by Grange`s visit for the men`s encounter to see if they can bounce back from their recent EHL experience.

A perennial problem for the students` coach Sam Judge is the sizeable turnover of players at the start of each new season, and the issues that causes. For example, her new charges were caught cold on the opening day with a reversal at the hands of Watsonians.

However, since then they have imposed two sizeable victories over Hillhead and Merlins Gordonians, and now sit in third spot in the table.

Judge said:  “We`re looking forward to the game this weekend.   We`re not quite at full strength yet but not far off.

“We`ve got a lot of new faces so it`s taken us a few games to gel, but we`re getting there.”

But the Edinburgh coach is under no illusion about the task ahead at Titwood.

“Clydesdale will be confident as they are unbeaten and had a good victory against Western Wildcats. Titwood is always a difficult place to go and we`re expecting a tough game.”

Certainly Clydesdale`s single goal win over Western Wildcats was an important outcome for coach Derek Forsyth, Jen Eadie`s penalty corner strike separated the sides, and he maintained they just deserved to edge it.

Ironically, the sides meet again on Sunday, this time on Scottish Cup business at Peffermill.

Whatever the result at Titwood, leaders Dundee Wanderers will hope to hold on to pole position, perhaps only on goal difference, with a win at Merlins Gordonians.

The Aberdonians have conceded 21 goals in their three matches to date in the top flight, and will face the lethal finishing of Vikki Bunce, Lucy Williamson and Heather Howie. But, to be fair to Gordonians, their baptism in the top flight has been against Western Wildcats, Clydesdale Western, Edinburgh University and now Dundee Wanderers – the top four sides of last season.

In the other fixtures, Watsonians, in sixth place, will look to see off Glasgow University. Although coach Keith Smith will maintain that there are still some rough edges in the performance, recent victories over Edinburgh University and Grove Menzieshill are clear grounds for optimism.

Grove Menzieshill lost their unbeaten record to Watsonians last week and have the chance to regroup this Saturday against Hillhead.

Grove Menzieshill have opened up a two-point lead at the top of the men`s Premiership, and will be out to sustain that advantage away to Uddingston.

Tayside coach Neil Allan did admit that he felt his side were somewhat fortunate to take the three points against Watsonians last weekend, he paid tribute to the Edinburgh side`s fighting spirit, yet at the same time gratefully accepted the three points despite playing below par.

Six goals in three games is not bad shooting for Grove Menzieshill striker Keir Robb, and it was his sole strike that took the points last weekend. But the Taysiders will be without the influential Jamie Golden, he is in Malaysia with the GB under-21 side at the Sultan of Johor tournament.

It is difficult to guess what Uddingston`s destiny will be this season, a draw against Dundee Wanderers and a 5-1 reversal at the hands of Edinburgh University is a tough start.

Western Wildcats will hope to hold on to second spot at home to Kelburne. Their youngsters –  Andrew and Joe McConnell, Rob Harwood and Fraser Moran – have been mostly behind the 17 goals already in their three outings so far.

It has not been an easy start for Kelburne coach Gordon Shepherd – Grange, Grove Menzieshill and now Western Wildcats – although his side got their first point against Hillhead last weekend.

Grange, after a tough EHL outing, will need to pick up the domestic cudgels at Titwood against Clydesdale to maintain their challenge.  At the moment the Edinburgh side trail Grove Menzieshill by three points, but they do have a game in hand against Uddingston to come.

Clydesdale on their own patch could be a challenge, as Western Wildcats found out on the opening day of the season. The Titwood-based outfit have match-winners emerging, Struan Walker from open play and Andrew Allan in the set piece department.

Graham Moodie`s Edinburgh University have quietly slipped into fourth spot after wins over Uddingston and Clydesdale, and the students will be out to maintain their momentum away to a Dundee Wanderers` outfit with a single point to their name.

If Watsonians can demonstrate the form that almost caused a shock at Grove Menzieshill last weekend at home to Hillhead, then the Edinburgh side could start to progress up the table.

The first round of the men`s Scottish Cup is on Sunday with six ties – the other sides have byes.

The pick of the bunch is at Bothwell Castle Policies where Uddingston entertain Clydesdale in an all-Premiership encounter. In the other ties Premiership sides Watsonians, Edinburgh University, Dundee Wanderers and Western Wildcats will be hoping to progress at the expense of sides from the lower divisions.

The women`s cup have sixteen ties involving 1st as well as 2nd and even 3rd teams in the mix.

Scottish Hockey Union media release



USIU stalk Lakers as Wazalendo battle Greensharks

By AGNES MAKHANDIA


Kenya Police's Brian Saina (right) dribbles past Western Jaguars' Conrad Wafula during their Kenya Hockey Union men's Premier League match at City Park Stadium on October 6, 2019. PHOTO | CHRIS OMOLLO |  NATION MEDIA GROUP

There is all to play for when United States International University of Africa (USIU-A) host Lakers in the Kenya Hockey Union women's Premier League at the City Park Stadium.

Both teams players to a barren draw in the first leg in Kisumu.

Lakers will then wrap up their weekend tour of the capital with a tie against Sliders on Sunday.

While USIU will be keen to win and topple rivals Strathmore University - who are not in action this weekend - from the second position in the league standings, Lakers on other hand will be seeking to move into third place.

USIU are placed third on 17 points from nine matches, while Lakers are fourth on 15 points from the same number of matches.

Strathmore are second with 18 points from 11 matches.

Lakers captain Linah Barasa said the stakes are high as each team wants to prove their superiority.

“We have always given our best shot in every match we have played and this one against USIUA is not any different. It’s only that the battle for superiority is on the cards on Saturday and therefore we are determined,” noted Barasa.

CAUTIOUS

Her opposite number Harriet Omindi said they will approach the match cautiously.

“It’s a big match but we remain positive that we will be the eventual winners. The players are all fit and available for selection,” said Omindi.

in other matches on Saturday, Jomo Kenyatta University Agricultural Technology (JKUAT) play Thika Rovers as Multi Media University welcome Bungoma Farmers in national men’s league.

In the men’s Premier League, former champions Kenya Police will be keen to keep alive their slim hopes of reclaiming the title when they play USIU-A in the late kick off.

The law enforcers beat Western Jaguars 2-1 last weekend.

On Sunday, Wazalendo have a chance to close in on league leaders and champions Butali, who are not in action again this weekend, when they parade against Greensharks.

Wazalendo are second on 29 points from 14 matches and a win against the Sharks will move them to 32 points one behind Butali although they have played one more match.

Greensharks are third with 23 points from 14 matches.

Oranje Leonas battle Technical University of Kenya in women’s Super League, before Wazalendo Masters play Bungoma in the men’s Super League.

JKUAT have a date with Karate Axiom in the men’s National League as Kenya College of Accountancy University (KCAU) take on Multimedia (MMU) in the men’s Super League.

FIXTURES

Saturday

JKUAT v Thika Rovers (City Park, 12pm)
Multimedia v Bungoma Farmers (City Park, 2pm)
USIU A v Lakers (City Park,4pm)
Kenya Police v USIUA (City Park, 6pm)

Sunday

Oranje Leonas v TUK (City Park, 8am)
Sliders v Lakers (City Park, 9am)
Wazalendo Masters v Bungoma (City Park, 11am)
JKUAT v Karate Axiom (City Park, 1pm)
KCAU VS MMU (City Stadium, 3pm)
Greensharks v Wazalendo (City Park, 5pm)

Daily Nation



Greensharks plot to attack Wazalendo lads

By Elizabeth Mburugu


GreenSharks celebrate after scoring against Parkroad when they played Men Premier League at City Park. (Jenipher Wachie, Standard)

Greensharks take on Wazalendo in one of two Kenya Hockey Union men’s Premier League matches lined up at City Park tomorrow.

Sharks will be out to end their poor show against Wazalendo who they have lost to in their last three encounters.

They will also be looking to bag maximum points and maintain their third spot on the standings.

However, they must be at their best as they face off with Wazalendo who are in their best form ever. Wazalendo thrashed Greensharks 3-0 in the first leg encounter in March this year.

Their brilliant form has seen them win nine out of 13 league encounters.

They are currently second on the standings with 29 points four less than champions Butali Warriors who will not be in action this weekend.

Greensharks on the other hand have played 14 matches, chalking seven wins, two draws and five losses garnering 23 points. They are two points above former champions Kenya Police who are fourth and ten adrift of leaders Butali.

Sharks captain Victor Osiche said tomorrow’s clash was a must win as bid to maintain second place.

“There is a lot at stake for us in the match against Wazalendo because we will not only be on the pitch to avenge our first leg 3-0 defeat but we will also be fighting to keep our season’s objectives on the right track. We aim for a top two finish and a win will boost our chances,” Osiche said.

Today, 2017 champions Kenya Police will take on United States International University of Africa (USIU-A). The law enforcers will be looking to overpower the students who held them to a 2-2 draw in June.

In the women’s title chase, Lakers will be in Nairobi to lock horns with USIU-A Spartans and Sliders.

The Standard Digital



In battle of Big Ten’s best, No. 2 Maryland field hockey prevails over No. 6 Iowa, 3-0

David Suggs


Maryland field hockey celebrates during its 3-0 win over No. 6 Iowa on Oct. 11, 2019 at the Field Hockey & Lacrosse Complex. (Julia Nikhinson/The Diamondback)

With the third quarter coming to a close, there was nothing but green turf in front of Maryland field hockey midfielder Brooke DeBerdine. So she took off.

DeBerdine — a central figure in the Terps’ counterattack — has always been a talented dribbler, so it was no surprise to see her drive at the Iowa defense with reckless abandon.

But with no goals or assists through her first 12 games of the season, there were question marks surrounding DeBerdine’s ability to create goal-scoring opportunities for herself and her teammates.

Those concerns were quickly assuaged, though, as DeBerdine delicately flicked the ball toward the goalmouth, finding sprinting midfielder Taylor Mason, who summarily put the ball past goalkeeper Grace McGuire to push the Terps’ lead to two goals — one they wouldn’t relinquish in Friday’s 3-0 win over No. 6 Iowa to take control of the Big Ten.

“It’s huge for us,” forward Madison Maguire said, “the team that’s first in the Big Ten gets a bye in the Big Ten tournament, so that’s key. You don’t want to play three games in a weekend.”

It was a war of attrition in the opening 15 minutes, with both teams flying across the pitch. But for all the effort, neither side carved out a breakthrough.

“I think that they play a little chaotic with their field hockey,” Maguire said. “We were playing down to what they were playing.”

Maryland goalkeeper Noelle Frost flashed her pad to deny forward Leah Zellner early in the first frame. A minute later, forward Bibi Donraadt was called into action, stretching to deflect defender Anthe Nijziel’s effort away from goal.

The Terps created the most dangerous chance in the first, capitalizing on a lethargic Iowa transition from attack to defense. After a free hit, a long ball found forward Emma DeBerdine down the field as she streaked toward the cage. The freshman wasn’t able to get the ball out of her feet, though, as McGuire dealt with the threat.

Both teams found more joy in their attacking thirds in the second quarter, with the Terps breaking the deadlock within two minutes of the game restart. Maguire swiveled her way through the Hawkeyes’ backline before backhanding the ball past an out-of-position McGuire.

After the first quarter, we said ‘Alright guys, let’s play Maryland hockey. Let’s get the ball and we’ll possess it,” Maguire said. “We did that.”

But as the game neared halftime, it was Iowa that was in control. Frost — named the NFHCA’s Division I Player of the Week for the second time this season — made three saves to ensure Maryland would head into the intermission holding a one-goal edge.

“Noelle had a great game,” Meharg said, “she had seven saves and is doing the stuff that she’s been doing.”

Despite the Terps’ lead, the game felt decidedly even through the first 30 minutes — Iowa managed to outshoot the Terps, 5-3.

Coach Missy Meharg’s squad held the lead, though, and they doubled it in the third frame.

DeBerdine rumbled down the right flank, taking the ball wide before floating a pass in front of the Hawkeyes’ goalmouth. Mason got the vital touch, squeezing the ball past McGuire’s desperate pirouette to push the Terps’ lead to two.

It was Mason’s first goal of the season and the second of her career.

“I saw that nobody was up there,” Mason said, “I was [thinking] ‘Brooke’s going for it, I really, really want to get it.’ … So I was just like ‘Okay, I’m going to go support her, just so we can get outcomes.’”

And that was all the Terps needed, handling Iowa’s improved threat in the fourth. The Hawkeyes eventually opted for an empty net in an effort to pull a goal back. But Maguire dashed any hopes of a Hawkeyes comeback, flicking the ball into the empty cage with three minutes left to extend Maryland’s win streak to nine games.

“Games like this are funky,” Meharg said. “You don’t need a lot of stats but if you’re opportunistic, you’re going to make it come.”

The Diamondback



Penn State Field Hockey Upsets No. 8 Northwestern 3-2 In Double Overtime Thriller

By Matt Paolizzi


Alysa Rubin | Onward State

Penn State field hockey (3-8, 2-1 Big Ten) took No. 8 Northwestern (10-5, 3-2 Big Ten) to the distance Friday night at home. It took two overtime periods and a slew of stressful moments, but the Nittany Lions hung on for the upset thanks to an overtime goal from Ana Simon.

It was a gritty game throughout, with a combined four green cards and three yellow cards sent out by the referees.

How It Happened

Despite chances for both teams in the first quarter, neither had much to show for their efforts. Both goalkeepers stopped everything in their way and both defenses were able to clog up their respective zones enough to make clean shots on goal difficult to come by. Simon came close, launching a rocket off her stick with three minutes left to play that just missed the mark.

The second quarter had play similar to first, with gritty, defensive play and plenty of action in the midfield. Both squads had three shots in the quarter, but none of them could find the mark.

After the last few seconds of the first half ticked away, a golden opportunity was placed on Penn State’s front door. A corner was given to the Nittany Lions after an out of bounds call was reviewed, but the Wildcats keeper was able to block it and send the ball over the net.

The second half started with some action right away. The Nittany Lions pushed right into Northwestern’s zone and got a penalty corner out of it. Their first shot didn’t get where it needed to go, but after some jostling in front of the net, Grace Wallis snuck a shot in for the first goal of the game.

A second corner for Penn State came right after Wallis’ goal and it got another score in, but it was waved off almost right away before the score could be changed from 1-0. Penn State’s control was ripped away after those two offensive attacks however, as Northwestern got itself back into the game.

The Wildcats went after it, sending shot after shot at Brie Barraco before a corner opened things up, leading to two more shots. Northwestern finally got one past the freshman goalie, leveling things at 1-1 as the third quarter came to a close.

It was all Northwestern as the fourth quarter started up, as the Wildcats sent another ball past Barraco to give the visitors a 2-1 lead. After giving up its lead, Penn State looked hungry to get it back. The Nittany Lions got three straight corners and a few other close shots, but that tying goal eluded them.

However, after a yellow card on Northwestern and a fourth corner given to Nittany Lions, they finally got their chance as Meghan Reese put one in to make it a 2-2 game. Northwestern responded with two straight penalty corners of its own, but great goalkeeping by Barraco and a perfectly placed stick kept the Wildcats from regaining their lead. Overtime was in the cards as the fourth quarter came to an end with the score tied.

The first overtime had its fair share of close calls as well, with both teams getting chances at the win. Bree Bednarski was especially active, getting both of Penn States shots, one flying high above the net and another just missing its mark in the lower right corner.

The second overtime period saw Northwestern on the offensive, but more great goaltending by Barraco stopped the Wildcats cold. A counter attack by Penn State saw its frustrations finally sated as Simon got the winning goal from far out, just slotting it into the lower corner for the 3-2 Penn State win.

Player of the Game
Ana Simon | Defense

What more can you say? The sophomore continues her dominance on both ends, helping out freshman goalie Brie Barraco on defense and scoring game winners on offense.

What’s Next

The Nittany Lions will continue their weekend homestand against No. 6 Iowa on Sunday. The game will start at noon.

Onward State



No. 3 field hockey returns home looking for bounce back

By Andrew Morrison


The UConn field hockey team is eager to get back on the winning track after losing last weekend to No. 2 Maryland. Photo by Michael McClellan / The Daily Campus.

Last time the UConn field hockey team lost a game, it rattled off six straight wins, half of which came against ranked opponents. After the second loss of the season to No. 4 Maryland last Sunday, the Huskies will look to have the same kind of bounce back this weekend, returning home to welcome Providence and No. 10 Delaware.

Maryland, now the No. 2 team in the country, gave UConn fits last weekend, the first time the Huskies have been shut out all season. UConn (10-2, 3-0 Big East) remains at No. 3 as previous No. 2 Duke has lost three of its last four. The Huskies are fourth nationally in RPI.

UConn has a long history against Friday’s opponent, Big East foe Providence. The schools have faced off 48 times, with UConn leading the all-time series 37-8-3. The Huskies have won the last 16 meetings, last suffering a defeat at the hands of the Friars in 2006.

The Huskies are one of two teams still undefeated in Big East play along with No. 22 Liberty. Providence (7-4, 2-1 Big East) is not far behind, having suffered a single loss to No. 20 Old Dominion in a shootout. 

The Friars have won three of their last four, falling to No. 6 Louisville on Sept. 29 before back-to-back dominant victories over Villanova and Dartmouth. Providence doesn’t allow many goals, averaging just 1.36 goals allowed per game, but at times it has also struggled to score its own (2.18 per game). 

Senior Izzy Mendez is Providence’s most dangerous forward with a team-leading 16 points on seven goals and two assists. She had two goals against Dartmouth last time out. Grad transfer Lydia Rice has started all 11 games in goal, compiling four shutouts and a .714 save percentage.


The Huskies will host Providence and No. 10 Delaware at the George J. Sherman Sports Complex, where they have yet to lose. Photo by Kevin McClellan / The Daily Campus.

The Huskies will host Providence and No. 10 Delaware at the George J. Sherman Sports Complex, where they have yet to lose. Photo by Kevin McClellan / The Daily Campus.

Sunday’s game against No. 10 Delaware will have some added emotion as UConn celebrates former-Husky Ginny O’Neil, who passed away in May. It’s the Pink Game, so fans are encouraged to wear pink. 

Delaware (8-2, 1-0 CAA) is coming off a 5-1 beatdown over No. 25 Northeastern, though these Huskies may provide a little more of a fight. The Blue Hens have excelled despite a tough nonconference schedule, going 4-2 against top-25 opponents. Delaware boasts an even stingier defense than UConn or Providence, surrendering just nine total goals in 10 games.

No surprise, redshirt senior goalkeeper Sydney Rhodes has been superb with a .82 goals against average. But it really starts at the Blue Hens’ backline, as Rhodes has only been forced to make 28 saves this season. For reference, UConn star goalie Cheyenne Sprecher has made 56. 

Junior Femke Strien is 11th in the country with nine goals, including three game-winners. However, Delaware is quite multidimensional, as nine different players have scored and five different players have multiple assists.

Unlike UConn’s extensive history with Providence, the Huskies and Hens have squared off just once, a 1-0 victory for UConn in 2017.  

UConn looks to extend its flawless home record to 6-0. Friday’s game, originally scheduled for 6 p.m., has been moved up to 3 p.m. due to concerns over EEE. Sunday’s Pink Game gets going at noon, both at the Sherman Family Sports Complex on campus.

The Daily Campus

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