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All the news for Friday 2 February 2018

5 Nations Invitational Tournament (M) - Day 4
Malaga (ESP)

SCO v IRL 1 - 5

FIH Match Centre

Green Machine Too Strong For Scotland



Scotland got off to an almost ideal start as they earned the first penalty corner of the game inside the opening 2 minutes but Alan Forsyth’s straight strike from the top of the circle flew wide. Minutes later they had their second PC but Johnny McKee was out at pace to put Forsyth under pressure and again send his shot wide. Much of the rest of the half was dominated by the Green Machine as they retained possession for large chunks and put Scotland under relentless pressure whenever the Bluesticks had the ball. Shane O’Donoghue got his first goal of the game in the 13th minute thanks to one of his trademark drag flicks high into the corner, and he doubled his sides lead in the 21st minute with a similarly unstoppable drag.

The blistering pace of the Green Machine didn’t let up in the second half and Julian Dale made it 3-0 just 3 minutes into the third quarter. Daragh Walsh evaded 2 defenders to send the ball into the circle and an error by Scotland saw the ball fall to Dale who slipped between the defenders to score from close range. Scotland again appeared to struggle with the unwavering tempo with which the Irish were playing at, perhaps an indication of the 13 places between the two sides in the world rankings. Conor Harte added to the tally in the 40th minute with another PC drag flick that was simply unstoppable despite Thomas Alexander’s best efforts. Dale cemented the victory further with his second goal as he tapped in at the back post, following Neal Glassey pouncing on a Scottish error to set up the Cork Church of Ireland player. Scotland got a deserved consolation goal late in the proceedings as Kenny Bain scored from a PC in the 56th minute.

Ireland’s final match is against the USA on Saturday at 1pm (Irish time). Watch here!

Rewatch the match below:
https://youtu.be/Da2cmU3Cyj8

5 Nations, Spain

Ireland 5 (O’Donoghue x2, Dale x2, Harte)
Scotland 1 (Bain)

Starting: M Bell, C Cargo, J Dale, S O’Donoghue, J McKee, M Robson, D Fitzgerald, P Gleghorne, C Harte (captain), S Loughrey, S Cole

Subs: L Madeley, S O’Connor, M Nelson, N Glassey, D Walsh, J Duncan, M Ingram

5 Nations Match Details in Spain:

January 29th at 2:30pm Ireland 4 vs 1 Canada in Carranque
January 30th at 5pm Ireland 2 vs 3 Spain in Carranque
February 1st at 5pm Ireland 5 vs 1 Scotland in CHP Benalmadena
February 3rd at 2pm Ireland vs USA in CHP Benalmadena

*All times listed are local

Irish Hockey Association media release

Dale double sees Ireland ease to win over Scotland


Julian Dale scored his first international goals. Pic: Adrian Boehm

Julian Dale’s first two internationals helped propel Ireland to a comfortable 5-1 win over Scotland in Malaga, making it two wins from three in the Five Nationals Invitational tournament.

The Cork man showed his predatory instincts from close range twice in the second half, adding to a pair of Shane O’Donoghue penalty corner goals and another from Conor Harte.

Scotland almost got off to an almost ideal start as they earned the first penalty corner of the game inside the opening two minutes but Alan Forsyth’s straight strike from the top of the circle flew wide.

Minutes later they had their second PC but Johnny McKee was out at pace to put Forsyth under pressure and again send his shot went wide.

Much of the rest of the half was dominated by the Green Machine as they retained possession for large chunks and put Scotland under constant pressure whenever the Bluesticks had the ball.

O’Donoghue got his first goal of the game in the 13th minute thanks to one of his trademark drag flicks high into the corner, and he doubled his sides lead in the 21st minute with a similarly unstoppable drag; 2-0 at half-time.

Three more goals arrived in the second half. The first was a bizarre piece of opportunism when a Scottish tackle turned in a direct back pass from the top of the circle to the lurking Dale to slam home first time.

Conor Harte added to the tally in the 40th minute with another drag flick. Dale cemented the victory further with his second goal as he tapped in at the back post, following Neal Glassey pouncing on a Scottish error to set up the Cork Church of Ireland player.

Kenny Bain pulled one back for the Scots with five minutes left but the tie was perhaps indicative of the diverging fortunes of the two countries in recent times.

It is now 11 years since Ireland have lost to Scotland, unbeaten in 20 matches, during which time the green machine has risen to 10th in the world.

Ireland complete their warm-weather trip on Sunday when they meet USA. To win the title, they need Spain to slip up against either Canada or the Scots.

Five Nations Invitational
Ireland 5 (J Dale 2, S O’Donoghue 2, C Harte)
Scotland 1 (K Bain)

Ireland: D Fitzgerald, M Bell, C Cargo, J Dale, S O’Donoghue, J McKee, M Robson, P Gleghorne, C Harte, S Loughrey, S Cole
Subs: S O’Connor, L Madeley, M Nelson, N Glassey, D Walsh, J Duncan

Scotland: T Alexander, C Duke, M Bremner, A Forsyth, C Grassick, R Anderson, G McIntyre, K Bain, W Marshall, J Wong, C Golden
Subs: C Fraser, B Cosgrove, W Adams, M Collins, D Riddell, R Shepherdson

The Hook

Scotland beaten in Malaga by Ireland

Scotland men lost to Ireland 5-1 in their third match of the 5-Nations in Malaga. The tournament comes in preparation for the Commonwealth Games with Scotland’s Gold Coast squad being announced on 14 February.

It was a bright and breezy start for the Scots in Malaga. An early penalty corner for Scotland was rifled past the right post by Alan Forsyth as the Scots looked to get off to a flying start.

Scotland then broke down the right through Alan Forsyth and he almost squeezed the ball under the goalkeeper for a goal, but won a penalty corner in the process. Forsyth again rattled the penalty corner but it was deflected clear on the line.

Then Kenny Bain attacked down the left but his sliding effort was blocked by the advancing David Fitzgerald in goal.

Ireland’s first chance of the match produced a goal. From a penalty corner Shane O’Donoghue sailed a delightful drag flick into the top right corner.

In the second quarter Ireland went 2-0 up through a goal identical to the opener. O’Donoghue again sent a drag flick into the top right corner to double Ireland’s advantage.

An even second quarter came to a close with Ireland edging the contest on expertly converted drag flicks.

Ireland started strongly in the third quarter and put the Scots under pressure. Julian Dale capitalised on a defensive error to fire Ireland 3-0 ahead from close range.

Ireland again proved deadly from penalty corners when Conor Harte converted into the bottom left corner, under the diving goalkeeper. 4-0.

William Marshall had a penalty corner saved well at the bottom right corner as Scotland battled hard to get on the scoresheet.

In the final quarter Ireland squeezed home a fifth goal when they burst into the Scotland D and Dale knocked home the rebound after David Forrester saved. Forrester then saved a penalty corner as the Irish went hunting for a sixth.

Scotland battled to the end and Bain pulled one back for Scotland in the final quarter when he slammed a penalty corner into the bottom left corner to make it 5-1.

Scotland 1-5 Ireland (K. Bain)

Scottish Hockey Union media release

Kookaburras Denied As Dutch Storm Back For Draw

Ben Somerford



The Kookaburras have squandered a three-goal lead to draw 3-3 with the Netherlands in game three of their Test Series at Perth Hockey Stadium on Thursday night.

In goalkeeper Tyler Lovell’s 100th game, Australia held a 3-0 lead late in the third quarter after goals from Tom Craig, Flynn Ogilvie and Blake Govers but the Dutch pushed the Kookaburras the whole way.

FIH World Player of the Year nominee Mirco Pruyser pulled one back prior to three-quarter time before final term goals to Thijs van Dam and Thierry Brinkman.

It might have been worse for the Kookaburras with Brinkman converting a low ball at the back post, but only seconds after the final siren had gone, denying the Dutch an unlikely win.

The result means the Dutch remain ahead in the series after Saturday’s 3-3 draw and Sunday’s 3-2 win in Narrogin.

Ogilvie said: “We started off really well, the first half we dominated. In the second half we got a bit frantic, they put some pressure on us and we didn’t cope with that as well as we wanted, so plenty of work for Saturday.”

The Kookaburras opened the scoring in the fourth minute when Craig converted from close range after Govers’ blind turn shot on the baseline forced a save from Pirmin Blaak.

The Dutch responded with the first penalty corner of the game which was blocked, before Govers fired wide with a drag flick.

Govers came close twice early in the second from two penalty corners, while Dylan Wotherspoon’s fine run set up Trent Mitton for a near post shot which was saved by Blaak.

Australia doubled their advantage in the 23rd minute when Ogilvie, in his third game back after a long-term injury, pounced when Blaak spilled a low cross from Jake Harvie to fire into the backboard.

The visitors applied pressure after the break with a Valentin Verga cutback and a penalty corner, while Daniel Beale came close twice, with one goal disallowed.

But Australia went further ahead when an unmarked Govers deflected Aaron Kleinschmidt’s drive in the 43rd minute.

The Netherlands ensured it would be a tense final quarter, when Billy Bakker found Pruyser to convert at the back post in the 44th minute.

The Dutch made it 3-2 in the 53rd minute when van Dam produced an expert tomahawk finish from a penalty corner.

And the visitors levelled the contest in the 57th minute when Brinkman swooped on a defensive error to fire past Kookaburras keeper Andrew Charter.

The two sides will meet in the series decider on Saturday at Perth Hockey Stadium from 7pm WST.

Australia 3 (T. Craig 4', Ogilvie 23', Govers 43') Netherlands 3 (Pruyser 44', van Dam 53', Brinkman 57')

Hockey Australia media release

Ogilvie Thrilled To Be Back After Injury

Ben Somerford



Flynn Ogilvie is loving being back in competitive action after scoring in his third game back from a long-term injury in the Kookaburras’ 3-3 draw with the Netherlands on Thursday night.

Ogilvie hadn’t played for the Kookaburras since May last year when he suffered a serious hamstring tear at the Azlan Shah Cup.

The 24-year-old midfielder returned to action in Saturday’s 3-3 draw with the Dutch in Narrogin and has played the following two matches, scoring Australia’s second goal in Thursday’s draw.

“It felt really good. I don’t get on the scoresheet too much these days,” Ogilvie said.

“I’ve moved my way back on the field. It’s good to get on the scoresheet in an early game back from injury. The hammy is going perfect.”

Ogilvie said he had felt no ill-effects from the hamstring during his comeback matches.

“It’s really good. It’s probably the best part of my body at the moment after all the rehab I’ve done,” he said.

“The rest is hurting after the three games. I’m just getting used to international hockey again.”

The University of Wollongong product added that he was thoroughly enjoying his return to action after more than eight months on the sidelines.

Ogilvie had to watch on as Australia won the Oceania Cup, International Festival of Hockey and World League Final to round out a strong 2017 where they re-claimed their number one ranking.

“It’s great fun being back. Sitting out for so long was hard watching the boys,” he said.

“They did well last year without me. Hopefully I can add a bit now that I’m back.”

The Kookaburras are next in action on Saturday for the Test Series decider against the Netherlands at Perth Hockey Stadium, before the Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia in early March.

Australia squandered a three-goal lead in Thursday’s 3-3 draw and Ogilvie said they needed to adjust their attitude if they were to claim the series decider.

“We need to do more of what we did in the first half,” he said.

“I think it’s more attitude. We came out with intent and we were smart.

“Whereas in the second half, we had the intent but weren’t as smart as the first half.”

The Australia-Netherlands Test Series will be live streamed at www.epicentre.tv.

PURCHASE TICKETS FOR THE AUSTRALIA-NETHERLANDS TEST SERIES

Hockey Australia media release

T&T gets Warm-up victory

T&T Men’s hockey team won 8-4 against Venlo Heren after Jordan Viera scored four times, his team-mate Akim Toussaint helped himself to a double, Marcus James also scored in open play while Jordan Reynos sank a penalty. T&T led 4-1 at half-time. The Team will continue its preparation before arriving in Berlin Germany on Sunday.

The Trinidad Guardian

stilwerk, Berlin revealed as host of Hockey Stars Awards



The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has revealed that stilwerk Berlin will be hosting this year's Hockey Stars Awards on 5 February 2018.

With the Indoor Hockey World Cup 2018 taking place shortly afterwards, the FIH felt the German capital would be the perfect setting to host this year's event.

Located in the west of the city between Zoo station and Savignyplatz, the concept store which focuses on international design provides a unique location to celebrate 2017's hockey stars.

Despite over one million people visiting this venue throughout the year, the evening of 5 February will be reserved exclusively for this special occasion. There, the winners of 2017's men's and women's Player, Goalkeeper, Rising Star, Coach and Umpire of the Year awards will be revealed.

The venue itself fits perfectly with the occasion. Distinctly internationally and inspiring, it reflects values embodied by the superstars of hockey who will be recognised at this annual awards ceremony.

Speaking about this announcement, FIH Interim CEO Delf Ness said: "stilwerk was founded on principles that embrace the best quality from across the world. This fits perfectly with the Hockey Stars Awards which celebrate those who have been the best performers in our events across the planet over the past year. Knowing the venue well, I'm certain they will put on a fantastic stage to showcase our sport's global stars. All those attending will enjoy a memorable evening in this cultured venue."

Owner of stilwerk, Alexander Garbe, added: "As a hockey player myself I am honoured to host this prestigious event in stilwerk. We have built a truly international collection of talent and creativity within the centre therefore we believe this aligns perfectly with the attributes that make all of the awards winners the best in the world. We are working closely with FIH to put on a truly fantastic show fitting for the top hockey players, goalkeepers, coaches and umpires in the world and look forward to hosting them in stilwerk next week."

Based on an internationally unique concept, stilwerk has developed over the past 20 years for brands, retailers and customers into an exclusive platform with a unique selling point, whose appeal extends beyond the industry and stands for absolute quality. Since 1999 stilwerk Berlin has been the perfect place for lovers of good design. From the kitchen to the study, the exclusive single piece to the classic - all premium brands, all of which are represented in over 50 stores across a total of 20,000 square meters. For more information about the venue, visit their website here.

Fans looking to catch a glimpse and perhaps an autograph from some of the world's top hockey stars should arrive at the venue around 19:00 to see the guests arriving. The ceremony will conclude around 21:30.

With the Indoor Hockey World Cup taking place in the city in only a few days time, Berlin really is the centre of the hockey world's attention over the next few days. You can find the latest ticket news for the Indoor Hockey World Cup here.

#HockeyStarsAwards

FIH site

Hockeyroos To Play China In Practice Matches

Ben Somerford



Hockey Australia today announces that the Hockeyroos will play world number eight China in five practice matches in Perth in February as preparation for the 2018 Commonwealth Games.

The fifth-ranked Hockeyroos last week clinched a Test Series win over Spain and will meet China from Sunday 4 February to Saturday 10 February ahead of the Gold Coast games where they chase a fourth straight gold medal.

Hockeyroos coach Paul Gaudoin said: “China are an excellent team and were at the World League Final. We’ll expect some pretty tough games against them.”

Selection for the 18-member Hockeyroos team for the Commonwealth Games is expected to be announced in mid-March.

The Hockeyroos are grouped with New Zealand, Canada, Ghana and Scotland at the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast which runs from 5-14 April.

Gaudoin added: “Hopefully the China matches allow us to narrow our squad for selections for Commonwealth Games.”

Australia last met China at the FIH World League Semi-Finals in June, losing 2-0 in the quarter-finals after the Hockeyroos had topped their pool.

The two sides last met in Australia when the Hockeyroos triumphed 3-1 in a one-off Test match in Perth in March 2016.

The practice matches will not be official Tests but have been sanctioned by the FIH.

Australia v China practice matches:
Sunday 4 February, 6pm WST/9pm AEDT – Hale Hockey Club
Monday 5 February, 4.30pm WST/7.30pm AEDT – Hale Hockey Club
Wednesday 7 February, 6pm WST/9pm AEDT – UWA Hockey Club
Friday 9 February, 6pm WST/9pm AEDT – Guildford Grammar Turf
Saturday 10 February, 6pm WST/9pm AEDT – Guildford Grammar Turf

Hockey Australia media release

Injured Bone Hopes For Commonwealth Games Experience

Ben Somerford



Hockeyroos defender Eddie Bone was part of the Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay this week in her home town of Orange.

Bone, 29, is a Commonwealth Games gold medallist from the 2014 Glasgow Games, while she also competed at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

She is currently sidelined due to injury, but was able to run as part of the relay on Tuesday and is hoping to be part of the quadrennial event which will be on home soil on the Gold Coast.

“The Commonwealth Games are something that’s really special,” she said.

“Having competed at one of the games before in Glasgow, it’s something where you get the whole Australian team together and everyone backs you in no matter sport or discipline you’re competing in.

“It’s something really special for the Australian community. I think these ones are going to be even better because they’re on Australian soil.

“Having the whole of Australia behind you, plus the Australian team in the village is going to be an unreal experience.”

The Hockeyroos are gunning for their fourth straight Commonwealth Games gold medal.

The Commonwealth Games run from 5-14 April, with the Hockeyroos grouped with New Zealand, Scotland, Canada and Ghana.

Hockey Australia media release

Ansley excited for GB's Argentina tour


Giselle Ansley

With the Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup and Commonwealth Games rapidly approaching on the horizon, 16 England athletes are travelling out to Argentina for their first competitive fixtures of 2018 as Great Britain.

The GB squad will face the tough test of five matches against Las Leonas in the famous heat and hostility Argentina has to offer, however Giselle Ansley is excited for the challenge ahead.

Ansley believes the matches will provide the perfect next step in the players' preparations as they build towards major tournaments this summer.

Ansley said: “It’s going to be fantastic. A trip to Argentina is one that everyone wants to be on. The fans out there are incredible. The stadiums are literally rocking with fans stamping their feet and the metal structures sometimes look like they could fall down!


Giselle Ansley

“They are so passionate about hockey and their players are like celebrities, you see them on the big billboards, you have police escorts to games, it’s something that you just never really experience but it’s absolutely fantastic.

“It’ll be a great series against a top team and a good experience in February at the start of a huge year. What better opposition is there to come up against?”

Ansley admits that the major tournaments this summer are on the England squad’s mind but that these provide them all with the perfect motivation, she added: “The big events coming up this year are really motivating for us and every time we step on the pitch they are in the back of our minds. This is what we are training for and everyone trains for those big moments and big tournaments.”

Looking further ahead Ansley also believes that 2018 will be a brilliant chance for the whole squad moving forward together she said: “Travelling the world, playing and training in different temperatures and all of those little things that go to the back of your mind, they are crucial.

“Not just for the World Cup but also moving towards 2020 and the Olympic Games. The more experience we have of playing on the international stage, against different teams, in different conditions will be so important.

England Hockey Board Media release

Vantage Black Sticks squads confirmed



The Vantage Black Sticks National and Development Squads for both men and women have been confirmed.

It’s a crucial year for both New Zealand squads ahead of the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games from 5-14 April along with Women’s Hockey World Cup (21 July - 5 Aug, London) and Men’s Hockey World Cup (28 Nov - 16 Dec, Bhubaneswar).

VANTAGE BLACK STICKS MEN

The Men’s National Squad retains plenty of strength with an experienced core of players who have more than 200 tests to their name in Shea McAleese (258), Arun Panchia (248), Hugo Inglis (203) and Stephen Jenness (201).

Dane Lett has been brought back into the National Squad while young forwards Daniel Harris and Aidan Sarikaya are included for the first time.

Experienced midfielders Simon Child and Blair Hilton are both recovering from long term injuries and have been retained as an extension to the National Squad.

Neither Child (hip) or Hilton (knee/leg) have played for the Vantage Black Sticks since the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, but will continue to be supported in their road back to the turf.

It’s also a new-look Development Squad which includes seven uncapped players alongside striker Mac Wilcox (15 tests).

2018 MEN’S NATIONAL SQUAD

EXTENDED NATIONAL SQUAD

2018 MEN’S DEVELOPMENT SQUAD

VANTAGE BLACK STICKS WOMEN

The Women’s National Squad is highlighted by the return of Anita McLaren, who was recently named in the Vantage Black Sticks team to play Argentina in February.

McLaren (nee Punt), with 247 internationals, is the Vantage Black Sticks Women’s leading all-time goal scorer having found the back of the net 96 times.

Striker Michaela Curtis has earned a re-call to the squad while 19-year-old North Harbour defender Kate Ivory will also be part of the group.

2018 WOMEN’S NATIONAL SQUAD

2018 WOMEN’S DEVELOPMENT SQUAD

Hockey New Zealand Media release

Rizwan Sr appointed captain for tri-nation hockey tournament

Zeeshan Ahmed

Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) on Thursday announced a 21-man squad for the upcoming tour of Oman, where the team will play a tri-nation tournament, also featuring the hosts and Japan.

The squad was finalised following the two-day trials held at the Abdul Sattar Edhi Hockey Stadium in Karachi.

Captain Mohammad Irfan had made himself unavailable for the tour of Oman due to personal commitments. As a result, Rizwan Senior was appoint the new skipper of the Green Shirts, Arsalan Qadir set to serve as his deputy.

Hassan Sardar, who was handed the dual coach/manager position for the recent visit of a World XI side, has reprised that role. He will be assisted by Rehan Butt and Muhammad Saqlain.

The team will leave for Muscat on Feb 10th or 11th, whereas the event is scheduled to take place between Feb 14 and 20.

Full squad:

Abu Bakar Mahmood, Ajaz Ahmad, Ali Shan, Amjad Ali (GK), Ammad Shakeel Butt, Fareed Ahmad, Imran Butt, Mubashar Ali, Muhammad Arslan Qadir (VC), Muhammad Atif Mushtaq, Muhammad Atiq, Muhammad Azfar Yaqoob, Muhammad Faisal Qadir, Muhammad Rizwan Jr., Muhammad Rizwan Sr. (Captain), Muhammad Toseeq Arshad, Muhammad Umar Bhutta, Shafqat Rasool, Shajeeh Ahmad Saeed, Tasawar Abbas, Tazeem ur Hassan

Stand-bys: Alim Billal, Junaid Kamal, Samiullah, Khizar Akhtar and Mazahar Abbas.

Dawn

Rizwan named captain for tri-nation hockey tournament on Oman



KARACHI: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) on Thursday announced a 21-man squad for the upcoming tour of Oman, where the team will play a tri-nation tournament, also featuring the hosts and Japan. The squad was finalised following the two-day trials held at the Abdul Sattar Edhi Hockey Stadium in Karachi. Captain Mohammad Irfan had made himself unavailable for the tour of Oman due to personal commitments. As a result, Rizwan Senior was appointed the new skipper of the green shirts while Arsalan Qadir will serve as his deputy. Hassan Sardar, who was handed the dual coach-manager position for the recent visit of a World XI side, has reprised that role. He will be assisted by Rehan Butt and Muhammad Saqlain. The team will leave for Muscat on Feb 10th or 11th, whereas the event is scheduled to take place between Feb 14 and 20.

Pakistan squad: Abu Bakar Mahmood, Ajaz Ahmad, Ali Shan, Amjad Ali (GK), Ammad Shakeel Butt, Fareed Ahmad, Imran Butt, Mubashar Ali, Muhammad Arslan Qadir (VC), Muhammad Atif Mushtaq, Muhammad Atiq, Muhammad Azfar Yaqoob, Muhammad Faisal Qadir, Muhammad Rizwan Jr., Muhammad Rizwan Sr. (Captain), Muhammad Toseeq Arshad, Muhammad Umar Bhutta, Shafqat Rasool, Shajeeh Ahmad Saeed, Tasawar Abbas, Tazeem ur Hassan.

Stand-bys: Alim Billal, Junaid Kamal, Samiullah, Khizar Akhtar and Mazahar Abbas.

The Daily Times

Jaffa Super 6s winners East Grinstead aim to continue good form outdoors


Ashley Jackson in action for East Grinstead. Credit Simon Parker

After winning the Jaffa Super 6s Finals last Sunday, East Grinstead will be aiming to take their indoor form into the outdoor programme as the Men’s Premier Division outdoor programme resumes.

Currently fifth in the table, East Grinstead could climb into the top four and play-off contention if they win and other results go their way.

A 1-0 win over Hampstead & Westminster in the last game before the winter break was East Grinstead’s first win in six league games and came after winning five of their first six matches earlier in the season.

“Beating Hampstead in the last match before Christmas gave us a boost, because it came after a string of defeats,” said East Grinstead’s 1st XI Manager James Leman. “But they were mostly away from home and against all the teams above us.

“We look forward to playing them all at our place in the coming weeks, and hopefully we can get into the play-offs.

“We’ve got plenty of experience of taking our form from the indoor to the outdoor programme. The majority of the squad have been playing hockey through the winter, and keeping fitness levels up, and we’ve got good momentum from that.

“Having Ashley Jackson back gave us a boost for the indoor, and he’s going to be a big help for the outdoor season, but also we’ve got Chris Griffiths back as well as David Condon and Liam Ansell, so they will all give us a big boost.”

Just one point above East Grinstead, Hampstead & Westminster entertain Wimbledon on Sunday as they bid to retain fourth spot. And third-placed Reading could drop out of the play-off spots if they lose at Canterbury.

Beeston are hosting Holcombe in Sunday’s other top flight game, with leaders Surbiton going to Sevenoaks in the Saturday evening match.

In the Men’s Conference East leaders Oxted have a home clash with Teddington, while Cambridge City – who are second only on goal difference – go to Chichester.

The University of Nottingham travel to Cannock in the Men’s Conference North as they aim to preserve their lead, while second-placed Loughborough Students are just one point behind and could take top spot if they beat Deeside Ramblers.

Having seen their six-match winning run broken by defeat to the University of Birmingham just before the winter break, leaders the University of Exeter will be aiming to get back to winning ways when they go to Havant on Sunday. Elsewhere, second-placed Cardiff & Met travel to play Isca.

FIXTURES

Saturday, February 3 2018

Men’s Premier Division
Sevenoaks v Surbiton 17:00

Men’s Conference East
Old Loughtonians v Richmond 18:00

Sunday, February 4 2018

Men’s Premier Division
Beeston v Holcombe 14:00
East Grinstead v Brooklands MU 14:00
Hampstead & Westminster v Wimbledon 14:15
Canterbury v Reading 14:30

Men’s Conference East
Oxted v Teddington 13:00
Chichester v Cambridge City 14:00
Old Georgians v Brighton & Hove 14:00
Southgate v West Herts 14:30

Men’s Conference North
Cannock v Univ of Nottingham 14:00
Doncaster v Univ of Durham 14:00
Loughborough Students v Deeside Ramblers 14:00
Preston v Sheffield Hallam 14:00
Bowdon v Leeds 14:30

Men’s Conference West
Cheltenham v Team Bath Buccaneers 12:30
Clifton Robinsons v Fareham 13:00
Havant v Univ of Exeter 14:00
Isca v Cardiff & Met 14:00
Univ of Birmingham v Olton & West Warwicks 14:30

England Hockey Board Media release

Bowdon aim to transfer indoor form to outdoor programme


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

Having won the Jaffa Super 6s Finals in thrilling style last weekend, Bowdon Hightown will be aiming to take that form outdoors as the Investec Women’s Hockey League resumes after the winter break.

They face Holcombe on Saturday – a team they beat twice in the indoor programme, including a 4-3 comeback win in the semi-final last Sunday – and are optimistic of victory.

“It’s going to be a tough match as they always are,” said Bowdon Hightown 1st XI Manager Sam Leckey. “But strong outdoor form helps the indoor and vice versa. We should be able to take our indoor form into this match because we did ourselves justice this year.

“Bowdon Hightown has a proud history in the indoor competition, but the outdoor programme is equally important to us.

Currently seventh, Bowdon need to start securing points if they are to move away from the relegation zone and challenge for the League Finals Weekend and Leckey added: “We beat East Grinstead and Surbiton in the outdoor programme before Christmas, so hopefully we can build on that and climb the table.”

Elsewhere leaders Surbiton head to Jaffa Super 6s beaten finalists Leicester as they bid to maintain top spot, while Buckingham go to the University of Birmingham on Sunday and could take the lead if they win and Surbiton falter.

East Grinstead travel to Slough as they aim to maintain their push for the top four and a play-off spot, while Clifton Robinsons play host to bottom of the table Canterbury.

In the Investec Conference East leaders Hampstead and Westminster face a tough home match against third-placed Wimbledon on Sunday. The two sides are the division’s equal top scorers with 43 goals from ten games so far, while their defences are also among the best.

Second-placed Sevenoaks go to bottom of the table Chelmsford as they bid to keep the pressure on the leaders.

Beeston will be looking to maintain their 100% record in the Investec Conference North as they go to Wakefield, while second-placed Brooklands Poynton host Loughborough Students.

And in the Investec Conference West Trojans go to Olton and West Warwicks as they bid to stay top, while Stourport go to Gloucester City and could leapfrog Trojans if they win.

FIXTURES

Saturday, February 3 2018

Investec Women’s Hockey League

Investec Premier Division
Slough v East Grinstead 12:30
Clifton Robinsons v Canterbury 13:00
Bowdon Hightown v Holcombe 13:45
Leicester v Surbiton 14:00

Investec Conference East
Harleston Magpies v Barnes 14:00
Southgate v Cambridge City 14:00
Bedford v St Albans 14:30
Chelmsford v Sevenoaks 15:00

Investec Conference North
Brooklands-Poynton v Loughborough Students 12:00
Sutton Coldfield v Ben Rhydding 12:30
Timperley v Univ of Durham 12:30
Wakefield v Beeston 13:00

Investec Conference West
Gloucester City v Stourport 12:00
Isca v Cannock 12:00
Olton & West Warwicks v Trojans 12:00
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Sunday, February 4 2018

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England Hockey Board Media release

THT and KLHC battle for League title

By Jugjet Singh

TERENGGANU Hockey team (THT) coach Sarjit Singh does not want to be third time unlucky, as he prepares his team for the Malaysia Hockey League  (MHL) League title decider Friday.

THT had lost the Charity Shield and the Alagendra Cup to Kuala Lumpur Hockey  Club (KLHC) on shoot-outs after being held to 2-2 and 3-3 draws respectively.

THT, on 21 points, and KLHC, on 20 points, will square off at the Kuala Lumpur HA Stadium today, and THT only needs a draw while KHLC a win to lift their 10th League title, and third crown of the season.

"We have yet to lose a match this season (six wins and three draws) and need to keep this record in the final league match against KLHC tomorrow to lift the league title.

"We lost the Charity and Alagendra Cup to KLHC on shoot-outs, and I don't plan to be third time unlucky," said THT coach Sarjit Singh.

Argentinian Olympian Gonzalo Peillat is the MHL top scorer with 13 goals for THT, while KLHC's South Korean Jang Jonghyun is No 2 on 10 goals -- and both of them are penalty corner aces.

"We have been winning matches because of penalty corners, but can't rely on it tomorrow. We need to score field goals as well to snatch the title from KLHC," said Sarjit.

As for KLHC coach Lim Chiow Chuan: "The players know what is at stake as we cannot afford a draw. We have to be intelligent in our tackles (inside the 25-yard) as THT are deadly in penalty corners.

“The plan is not to concede soft penalty corners and to play a patient game.

“When we lost to TNB (Tenaga) and drew with UniKL (Universiti Kuala Lumpur), most wrote off our chances of retaining the League title.

“However The team showed guts and determination by winning every match since, and I can only salute their dedication and commitment.

"It’s down to this match, and we will not give up our title without a fight.”
 
FRIDAY: Premier Division -- Tenaga v UniKL (National Stadium Pitch II, 6pm), Maybank v Thunderbolts (National Stadium Pitch II, 8pm), KLHC v THT (KLHA, 5pm).

Jugjet's World of Field Hockey

Terengganu won’t play second fiddle to KLHC again

By Aftar Singh

KUALA LUMPUR: Terengganu are fed up of losing to KL Hockey Club (KLHC) not once – but twice – in the Malaysia Hockey League (MHL).

And the team’s penalty corner specialist Gonzalo Peillat from Argentina is all fired up to get it right in the third attempt when both sides clash today for the Premier Division title at the Kuala Lumpur Hockey Stadium.

The East Coast team were denied two titles – the Tan Sri P. Alagendra Cup and Charity Shield by KLHC in less than a month.

KLHC edged Terengganu 4-3 on penalty shootout after a 3-3 deadlock in regulation time in the Alagendra Cup and won 5-4 on penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in the Charity Shield.

Terengganu top the six-team standings with 21 points from nine matches while defending league champions KLHC are second with 20 points.

Terengganu just need a draw to win their first silverware this season while KLHC will be going all out to collect full points to win their 10th league title.

Peillat said Terengganu had learnt from the past two defeats.

“It’ll be an interesting match. Both are gunning for the league title. KLHC are a solid team and they will be going all out to retain the league title,” said Peillat.

“We just need a draw. We’re wiser and we’ll go all out to secure a win,” added Peillat, dubbed as the best penalty corner drag flicker in the world.

The 25-year-old defender has scored a total of 13 goals in nine matches.

“I’m happy with my conversion rate and hope to continue delivering the goals to help my team win the league title,” he said.

KLHC coach Lim Chiow Chuan said: “We’ve to be intelligent in our tackles as they have good penalty corner flickers. The plan is to play a cautious game and not to concede penalty corners.

“Most people thought that our chances of retaining the league title was virtually over after we lost to Tenaga (4-2) and drew (3-3) with Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL).

“But the team showed guts and determination by winning every match since then. I can only salute their dedication and commitment.”

The Star of Malaysia

Battered Strathmore battle USIU in must-win hockey league tie

By BRIAN YONGA


USIU Spartans midfielder Rachel Wangui drives the ball during their Kenya Hockey Union Premier League match against Telkom on November 26, 2017 at the City Park Stadium, Nairobi. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU |  NATION MEDIA GROUP

United States International University of Africa Spartans (USIU-A) Spartans will be looking to seal second place in the Kenya Hockey Union women’s Premier League when they take on vanquished Strathmore University Scorpions at the City Park Stadium, Nairobi on Friday.

Spartans need just a point to secure second place behind champions Telkom and a place in this year’s Africa Cup for Club Championship tourney. Scorpions, who are placed third in the log, trail their second placed opponents by six points and cannot afford to drop points.

Both teams have two games left and pressure will be on the Scorpions to win all their remaining matches convincingly starting with Friday evening’s contest against their rivals. Their first leg meeting ended 2-2 and Friday’s encounter is once again expected to be a close contest.

Spartans come into the match on the back of four successive wins that have seen them on the brink of qualifying for their first ever continental event.

Spartans coach Willis Okeyo has been impressed with his team’s campaign and believes finishing in second place is their reward.

“We have been very consistent this season and the results speak for themselves. We have great team work and the charges can secure second place with a good result against Scorpions,” Okeyo said on Thursday.

Spartans’ goof form has been occasioned by the impressive displays of their top scorer Rhoda Kuira, skipper Beatrice Mbugua as well versatile players Sandra Vodoti and Rachel Wangui. Spartans will welcome back Vodoti for this match as they seek a win that will take their tally to 49 points from 19 matches.

Kuira will lead the attack as she seeks to add to her tally of 15 goals scored this season. Scorpions on other hand come into the match on the back of a disappointing fifth place finish at last week’s Africa Cup for Club Championship in Accra, Ghana.

Scorpions coach Meshack Senge admits it will be hard to rally his charges mentally after an embarrassing continental campaign.

“We picked a lot of positives in Accra and hopefully they can help the team in our last two matches of the season,” Senge said.

Anything other than a win will see their dream of returning to yet another continental championship go up in smoke. International Gilly Okumu, who scored three goals in Ghana, will lead Scorpions’ attack.

Daily Nation

Mumtaz leads UP to facile win, Punjab, Haryana earn full points

NEW DELHI: Spearheaded by skipper Mumtaz Khan, who scored three goals, Uttar Pradesh commenced their campaign with a facile 7-0 win over Chhattisgarh in the girls' hockey competition of the Khelo India School Games at Dhyan Chand stadium in New Delhi on Thursday.

In the first match of the day in Pool A, the Haryana girls overpowered Jharkhand 4-2 while in the afternoon Punjab had to wage a battle before downing Chandigarh 3-1 in Pool B.

For Uttar Pradesh, who led 3-0 at half time, besides Mumtaz Khan, the other goal scorers were Simran Singh (2), Sawarnika and Vinamrta Yadav (one each). The UP team served notice to their rivals with a super display of attacking hockey and outpaced their rivals in all departments of the game.

Chhattisgarh players put up a good resistance for first 18 minutes but once they conceded a goal in the 19th minute they became defensive allowing Uttar Pradesh to take over the possession of the mid-field.

Uttar Pradesh strikers took full advantage and surged ahead in the 19th through Sawarnika, Vinamrata made it 2-0 and then Mumtaz converted a penalty corner to make it 3-0. In the second session, the winners pumped in four more to complete the rout.

Earlier, Haryana outpaced Jharkhand and converted two penalty corner to lead 2-0 at half-time. The winners pumped in two more goals before conceding two in the dying minutes of the game. Captain Sharmila scored two goals while Nidhi and Anu chipped in with a goal each. For Jhaskhand, Ropni Kumari and Subhani Bhengra scored a goal each to reduce the margin.

In the third match, a brace by Harpreet Kaur enabled Punjab to overcome Chandigarh 3-1. Chandigarh took the lead through Akshita Yadav in the 26th minute but Harpreet Kaur drew parity for Punjab just before half-time.

In the second session, Harpreet converted a penalty corner in 55th minute to make it 2-1 and six minutes before the end Simranjeet Kaur made it 3-1 to seal the match in Punjab's favour.

The Times of India

Hockey Ireland needs ‘major investment’ ahead of World Cups

Overall, senior teams will get extra €50,000 this year to compete in tournaments

Johnny Watterson


Hockey Ireland chief Jerome Pels: “We’re very grateful for the support we receive from Sport Ireland.” Photograph: Presseye/Rowland White/Inpho

For a sport that has managed to qualify two senior teams for World Cups this year in England and India, the men’s team, who are currently involved in a Five Nations event in Spain, must feel a little underwhelmed that their high performance funding programme has been cut by €10,000 this year from last.

It was €530,000 last year and is €520,000 this year.

Everyone who has been around long enough knows one thing: Sport Ireland’s allocation of funding is as clear as Stephen Hawking’s Black Holes and Baby Universes.

On the upside, the teams will receive an additional €60,000 for participating this year in the tournaments. But why €60,000? And why does Horse Sport Ireland deservedly draw €110,000 for the World Equestrian Games?

Why are the numbers different? What are the grants based on? Participation rates? World rankings? General costs? Tournament qualification? All combined?

What would be helpful is a criteria list that is transparent and that everyone can see and understand.

“We’re very grateful for the support we receive from Sport Ireland and the additional €60,000 to help our squads prepare for their World Cups is greatly appreciated,” said Hockey Ireland chief executive Jerome Pels.

Bridge the gap

“However, two World Cups will require a significant investment and we are still actively seeking sponsors for both teams to bridge the gap.”

Hockey Ireland also received a core grant of €260,000 and another revenue stream from the women in sport programme worth €35,000. Overall, from each of the sources a total of €875,000 goes into the sport, which has a participation rate of about 50,000 people.

In essence, the 32 World Cup athletes (two 16-person squads) receive an extra €50,000 this year to compete in two World Cup events.

There is no registration system yet in place for hockey to know exact participation numbers but that anomaly may be rectified later this year. But the costs of administration and participation are huge with the men’s team finishing off their tournament in Spain tomorrow against the USA.

In March the team play in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup with heavy hitters Australia, England, Argentina, India and hosts Malaysia before various other commitments prior to the World Cup in December.

The Irish Times