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News for 10 March 2018

All the news for Saturday 10 March 2018


27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup (M) - Day 5
Ipoh (MAS)

ENG - MAS 7 - 2   
IRL - IND 3 - 2
ARG - AUS 1 - 3

Final Pool standings

Rank Team Played Wins Draws Losses Goals For Goals Against Goal Difference Points
1 Australia 5 5 0 0 18 6 12 15
2 England 5 2 2 1 14 9 5 8
3 Argentina 5 2 1 2 11 11 0 7
4 Malaysia 5 2 0 3 10 17 -7 6
5 India 5 1 1 3 12 12 0 4
6 Ireland 5 1 0 4 9 19 -10 3


Final day fixtures (GMT+5)

15:30 IND v IRL (5th/6th Place)
18:00 ARG v MAS (3rd/4th Place)       
20:30 AUS v ENG (Final)

FIH Match Centre



England thrash Malaysia to book place in final


England v Malaysia SAS 2018

England sealed a spot in the final of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup with a devastating victory over hosts Malaysia.

Barry Middleton stole the show with two stunning efforts, while Sam Ward and Mark Gleghorne also found the back of the net twice as England controlled the game from start to finish, with Ollie Willars also scoring.

Tengku Tajuddin and Marhan Jalil reduced the arrears in the final quarter but it was merely a consolation, only taking the smallest of shines off what was a great occasion for Harry Martin to celebrate his 100th England appearance.

The result means England will play Australia on Saturday 10 March in what promises to be a cracking scrap for the gold.

With both teams needing victory to qualify for the final, England began firmly on the front foot as Ward forced 'keeper Hafizuddin Othman into action in the fifth minute.

George Pinner then pulled off a stunning save – flinging himself high to his right – to keep out Malaysian captain Razie Rahim’s penalty corner before Liam Ansell lifted an effort over the bar after nine minutes.

The game was not going to remain goalless for long and Gleghorne opened the scoring in the tenth minute, rifling a penalty corner into the top left corner before Willars smashed in a second less than sixty seconds later after being given oodles of time to pick his spot.

David Condon had the ball in the net shortly after – although it was off his body and therefore disallowed – before Middleton unleashed a reverse stick screamer from the top of the circle on the quarter hour mark.

England had plenty more chances in the second quarter but could not convert their lead, Chris Griffiths coming close twice, while Harry Gibson also produced a smart save with his feet in the 23rd minute.

It then took just 58 seconds in the second half for Middleton to find the net once again, beautifully turning James Gall’s inch perfect cross above Othman for his second and England’s fourth.

Brendan Creed took one for the team to block Firhan Ashari’s effort before Ward came into his own, sliding an effort past Othman in the 38th minute before smashing home a penalty corner three minutes later, with a cheeky reverse stick attempt in between going just wide.

Gleghorne then dispatched a penalty stroke with consummate ease in the 48th minute before Malaysia hit back twice in three minutes, Tengku deflecting Razie’s corner past Gleghorne before Marhan added another.

The final will be played at 1230 on Saturday 10 March live on the BBC Sport website.

England 7 (3)
Gleghorne (PC, 10; PS, 48), Willars (FG, 11), Middleton (FG, 15; FG, 31), Ward (FG, 38; PC, 41)

Malaysia 2 (0)
Tengku (PC, 50), Marhan (FG, 52)

England Starting XI: Pinner (GK), Martin, Griffiths, Sloan, Ward, Gleghorne, Roper (C), Dixon, Middleton, Creed, Sanford

Subs: Gibson (GK), Willars, Goodfield, Ansell, Condon, Gall

England Hockey Board Media release



England rule Malaysia, again

By Jugjet Singh

IPOH: MALAYSIA blew a super chance to play in the final of the 27th Azlan Shah Cup, when they crumbled 7-2 to England Friday.

Earlier in the day Australia had beaten Argentina 3-1 to shut the door on the South Americans, and all Malaysia had to do was to beat England.

Malaysia will now play Argentina for the bronze, while England and Australia will battle for the gold.

Malaysia had beaten Argentina 2-1 at the group stages, but going by current form, the Olympic champions start as favourites for bronze.

Yesetrday, after missing two early penalty corners, coach Stephen van Huizen's men were a defensive nightmare and conceeded three goals in the first quarter itself.

For the record, England had hammered Malaysia 7-3 in the World League Semifinals Group A match, and then beat Malaysia 4-1 in the Third-Fourth placing match.

The English goals were scored by Mark Gleghorne (10th, 48th), Ollie Willars (11th), Barry Middleton (15th, 31st), Sam Ward (38th, 41st),  .

Razie Rahim (50th) and Marhan Jalil (52nd) scored for Malaysia.

World champions Australia beat Olympics champions Argentina 3-1 with goals from Aaron Kleinschmidt (25th, 56th) and Trent Mitton (55th).

Gonzalo Peillat scored for Argentina off a 21st minute penalty corner.

Australia has been enjoying winning streaks against the Argentinians since the 2012 London Olympics. They last defeated Argentina 2-1 at the 2017 Orrisa Men’s Hockey World League final in Bhubaneswar, India.

Australia coach Colin Batch said: "Looking back at the five games played, we have been consistent with what we do and today we did not start as well as we wanted, and Argentina obviously got in front.

"They are playing well and good credit to my players in the comeback to level firstly and then win the game in the last couple of minutes of the fourth quarter.

"We know that good consistence performance is what we want in our team. We are never a team that just rely on one player. We are pleased with that result and scored the goals under difficult situations and conditions.

"We also know that penalty corners are important for Argentina and Andrew Charter made some good saves at the back. We know we can rely on both our goalkeepers.

"We are looking forward to Saturday's final."
 
RESULTS: Argentina 3 Australia 1, Ireland 3 India 2, Malaysia 2 England 7.

SATURDAY: Final -- Australia v England (8.30pm), Third-Fourth: Argentina v Malaysia (6.0pm); Fifth-Sixth: India v Ireland (3.30pm).

STANDINGS
                  P  W  D  L  F  A  Pts
AUSTRALIA         5  5  0  0  18 6  15
ENGLAND           5  2  2  1  14 9  8
ARGENTINA         5  2  1  2  11 11 7
MALAYSIA          5  2  0  3  10 17 6
INDIA             5  1  1  3  12 12 4
IRELAND           5  1  0  4  9  19 3

Jugjet's World of Field Hockey



Malaysia torn apart!

By Aftar Singh


Close call: Malaysia’s Tengku Tajuddin (right) fails to get past England’s Mark Gleghorne and goalkeeper George Pinner during their encounter in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh. England won 7-2. — RONNIE CHIN/The Star

KUALA LUMPUR: It was a night to forget as Malaysia were hammered 7-2 by England in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.

The men’s team, who are in the Podium Programme, are to be blamed for their porous defence at the Azlan Shah Stadium in Ipoh yesterday.

Conceding three goals in the space of five minutes in the first quarter was a big blow for Stephen van Huizen team's preparation for the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia from April 4-15.

To make matters worse, they let in another four in the space of 17 minutes in the last two quarters.

England completed the round robin fixtures with eight points from five matches and will face world champions Australia in the final.

The Oceania champions chalked up their fifth consecutive win when they came back from a goal down to defeat reigning Olympic champions Argentina 3-1 in the first match of the day.

Malaysia, who needed a win over England to qualify for the final, finished with six points from two wins and three defeats.

Malaysia will face Argentina in the bronze medal playoff today.

The Malaysian defence had conceded 12 goals in their last two matches. On Wednesday, they were outplayed by India 5-1.

World No. 6 England played to their true form to take the lead in the 10th minute off their third penalty corner.

Mark Gleghorne’s high drag flick hit the stick of goalkeeper Muhd Hafizuddin Othman before it hit the net.

The Star of Malaysia



Green Machine Beat India In Azlan Shah Cup



It was an even contest for much of the fixture with both sides creating chances and both goalkeepers called upon to make some strong saves. Jamie Carr was in action first as he controlled his circle with an important boot to intercept a cross ball. But there was nothing he could do about India’s opening goal as Ramandeep Singh dove in at the post to deflect home from Varun Kumar’s initial penalty corner shot in the 10th minute. But the Green Machine weren’t deterred as Sean Murray, a threat from start to finish, sent a shot just wide and that was closely followed by Shane O’Donoghue forcing a diving save from Suraj Karkera. It was O’Donoghue that got the equaliser as he calmly placed the ball past the oncoming keeper; following a pinpoint pass from Chris Cargo to start the move and a skilful slip from Kirk Shimmins to the waiting O’Donoghue. The world number 6 side took the lead again minutes later as Amit Rohidas sent a PC drag high into the corner to ensure India held a 2-1 lead at half time.

The Green Machine were quick out of the blocks in the second half and Murray got the equaliser in the 36th minute. Shimmins sent a ball across goal and Murray stepped his marker to deflect home from close range. The momentum remained with the Irish for much of the half despite the energy sapping heat and humidity, and Lee Cole gave his side the lead 5 minutes later. Murray won his team their second PC of the contest and the variation saw O’Donoghue’s low drag deflected past the keeper by the diving Cole. India withdrew their keeper and pushed for 2 goals, a draw no good for their hopes of reaching the final. They won further PC’s but resolute Irish defence saw the shots wide or cleared. 

The two sides will meet again tomorrow in the 5th/6th place match at 7:30am Irish time.

Azlan Shah Cup

Ireland 3 (O’Donoghue, Murray, L Cole)
India 2 (Ramandeep Singh, Amit Rohidas)

Starting: J Carr, J Bell (Captain), C Cargo, E Magee, K Shimmins, S O’Donoghue, J Dale, M Robson, P Gleghorne, L Cole, S Loughrey

Subs: M Bell, S O’Connor, S Murray, J McKee, M Ingram, S Cole

Ireland Schedule (all times listed are local - GMT+5):

March 3rd at 20:30 Ireland 1 vs 4 Malaysia
March 4th at 18:00 Ireland 3 vs 5 Argentina
March 6th 16:00 Ireland1 vs 4 England
March 7th 16:05 Ireland 1 vs 4 Australia
March 9th 18:05 Ireland 3 vs 2 India
March 10th Final Placing Matches

Irish Hockey Association media release



Cole heats up Ireland in Malaysia as domestic games hope to thaw out

After a rough opening four games, Ireland ground out a morale-boosting 3-2 win over world number six side India at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia.

Lee Cole slid in to get the winner in the third quarter from a cleverly disguised Shane O’Donoghue penalty corner move.

Earlier, Ireland had trailed twice, firstly to Ramandeep Singh’s touch to an early corner. O’Donoghue levelled in exquisite style from Kirk Shimmins’ under-the-arm pass from Chris Cargo’s initial pump into the circle.

Amit Rohidas restored the Indian advantage, making it 2-1 at half-time but Ireland showed real guts in the Ipoh heat and humidity.

Shimmins delivered a bouncing ball from the right that evaded the Indian defender at the front post, allowing Sean Murray to get in front of his man to tap home.

Murray – a stand-out performer this week along with Shimmins – then won the corner from which the winner came.

There was defending to do in the closing quarter but the defensive unit did well to shut down a set piece with four minutes to go to secure the win.

Craig Fulton’s side had lost their first four games, conceding 17 times, against sides primarily in the closing phases of Commonwealth Games preparation.

For Ireland, the series is more developmental as Fulton looks to widen his panel for November’s World Cup.

Ireland will now look to finish on a high on Saturday morning in the fifth-sixth place playoff game against the Indians once again (7.30am, Irish time).

Sultan Azlan Shah Cup
Ireland 3 (S O’Donoghue, S Murray, L Cole)
India 2 (R Singh, A Rohidas)


Corinthian meet UCD in a cruical Leinster Division One tie. Pic: Adrian Boehm

On the domestic front, Three Rock Rovers will play Railway Union in a back match in the EY Hockey League. For Rovers, Conor Quinn comes in for Jamie Carr who is currently with the national team in Malaysia in what is their first league game since February 11.

Railway, meanwhile, come into the game off the back of their 3-2 result against Cookstown with Aran Rooney back in the line-up after a spell in Australia.

Pembroke II, meanwhile, take on Banbridge II in the Irish Junior Cup semi-final after they were reinstated. Lisnagarvey eliminated Pembroke in a shoot-out but were deemed to have played an ineligible player, giving Pembroke their second chance.

In Leinster Division One, Corinthian meet UCD in a huge game at Whitechurch Park early in the day at 11.45am. Both are level on points – along with YMCA – with the reds having the slight advantage of a game in hand.

As such, avoiding defeat is paramount for Trevor Dagg’s side if they are to win the provincial crown for a third successive sason. But they will have their hands full from a student side featuring Jazze Henry, the innovation of Andrew Ramsay and Dutch Erasmus student Joran Schulte.

For Corinthian, Ian Stewart has been banging in the goals while Davy Howard is another top corner option in a dynamic side. YM have a tricky task on the road at Kilkenny.

To take into account last weekend’s snowed off fixtures, the games from March 3 will now be played on April 7 unless sides wish to bring the games forward. This is the same for all leagues down to Division 6 while Division 7 will now finish on April 14.

Ireland: J Carr, J Bell, C Cargo, E Magee, K Shimmins, S O’Donoghue, J Dale, M Robson, P Gleghorne, L Cole, S Loughrey
Subs: M Bell, S O’Connor, S Murray, J McKee, M Ingram, S Cole

Men’s weekend fixtures (all Saturday)
EY Hockey League: Three Rock Rovers v Railway Union, 3pm, Grange Road
Leinster Division 1: Kilkenny v YMCA, 2pm, Kilkenny College; Corinthian v UCD, 11.45am, Whitechurch Park; Rathgar v Dublin University, 12.30pm, High School; Weston v Avoca, 1.15pm, Griffeen Valley Park; Dublin North v Clontarf, 3pm, NSC

Munster Division 1: Limerick v Bandon, Villiers, 1pm.

Irish Junior Cup, semi-final: Pembroke II v Banbridge II, 12.20pm, Serpentine Avenue

The Hook



Defensive woes, midfield worries continue to haunt India as Ireland douse medal hopes

Sundeep Misra


File image of the Indian hockey team in action at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup. Image courtesy: Twitter/@TheHockeyIndia

With team sheets rejigged, younger legs introduced, close games against better opposition providing a mirage-like effect, it was up to Ireland, a team ranked four places below India at tenth to give us a lesson in realism. To say that Ireland's 3-2 victory was an aberration would be showing them disrespect. And giving India’s young legs the credibility they didn’t deserve.

Rankings kept away, the Indian team plays intense and a trunkful of matches through the year to understand the difference between a gritty and fluent win. Against hosts Malaysia, India’s 5-1 win had set up all the melodrama of a possible final and in the worst case, a bronze medal play-off. In that context, coming into a fifth match in the tournament, India should have understood the nuances of a win, flowing or scratchy was not the question; as with most things, the truth lies somewhere in the middle.

India’s start didn’t give anybody a peek into what would follow. They played through the middle, cut the ball in, stretched the flanks and made the Irish defence probably imagine a four-quarter match of constant defending. India’s aerial deliveries started early as Shilanand Lakra, Sumit Kumar and Gurjant Singh trapped immaculately. Moving skilfully, the Indians were showing glimpses of settling in early and picking at the Irish defence. And when India got its first penalty corner in the 10th minute, things looked on track.

Varun Kumar fired it low and Ramandeep Singh, also the man who pushed, dived and deflected it in. It was a wonderful indirect penalty corner, which lifts the team that creates it and completely destroys the opposition defence. And when India got its second penalty corner, the flick sent wide off the post didn’t frustrate many. It was still the first quarter. And India looked like building.

But within minutes of the second quarter, things started unravelling. The play was ragged. India were passing to Irish sticks. The turn-over rate of India losing the ball increased. Play was lost in the midfield and Ireland sniffed at the Indian defence. They saw a jittery bunch of players trying to clear the ball without authority. Amit Rohidas has played the HWL Finals and he was expected to hold the ball. But he appeared constantly in a hurry. Varun Kumar and Dipsan Tirkey played the HWL alongside Rohidas and they started to crumble into the middle of the second quarter. Only Nilam Xess showed some spunk. In fact, he tried overlapping. India were fast losing structure.

You can understand that when the opposition is attacking and creating counters every 40 seconds of turn-overs. But to see India not bringing in fluency was jarring. Sjoerd Marijne later said, “India needs to be consistent.” But those are the very remarks after losses to England and Germany in the HWL, and that by the way was the senior team. So to which team are we looking for consistency?

In the 24th minute, the Indian defence grouped together on the left side, fending off an Irish attack. But the Irish intelligently swapped positions, saw the yawning gap with Shane Donoghue, left without a marker, and sent in a cross. Shane trapped neatly and flicked it into high into the right side of the net. Karkera had absolutely no chance of saving it. At 1-1, the seeds of doubt had been sown in the Indian minds. Yet, India earned their third PC and Amit Rohidas fired it in brilliantly, high into the net. India had the lead 2-1. Ireland also had their first PC and it required a brilliant effort from Karkera to keep it away.

The break came at the right time. With Ireland coming into the match and India sliding despite the lead, the coach would probably lift the team. Or change something structurally. But there was a tendency to let thing drift. Playing a team about which you don’t know much has its downside. But India probably felt they could just flick a switch and take care of Ireland.

The first signs of panic were in the individual play. It’s a very Indian thing, a kind of malaise that hits players in the lower leagues. And Shilanand Lakra, Sumit Kumar, Nilakanta Sharma fully indulged in it. They tried to dodge past Irish defenders, eventually losing the ball without realising that Ireland were being allowed to build attacks. Strikes down the flanks were reaching the Indian striking circle and in the 36th minute, the Irish opened up the Indian defence with surgical precision.

Shane, who was having a great match, was given enough space on the right flank and he hammered in a cross that had ‘optimism’ written all over it. The sleeping Indian defence let it travel, not a stick outstretched to stop. Sean Murray couldn’t believe it when he trapped the ball and skimmed it into goal. Ireland had the equaliser. Importantly, they had the confidence. India were on the ropes.

There was time to regroup, find a match-winner. All that the Indians had to do was close down the gaps and rotate the ball. Tactically, the best move would have been to pull Sardar from the midfield and play him free man at the back, give him the freedom to dictate terms and use that vision to create balls for Gurjant, Ramandeep, Lakra and Sumit Kumar. But the free man — Surender, Dipsan or Amit — whoever it was, kept firing it on the lines. It was time to use the middle to create forays, cut the ball onto the flanks and bring in players into the circle to try at least for penalty corners.

But India were in disarray. With Ireland understanding that India were not attacking with precision, they moved up, closing the gaps and India were on the defence. Whatever attacks happened, they didn’t have the sharpness. Gurjant tried to create some while Ramandeep, a player who has evolved in this tournament, was without any support. Twice, he plucked the ball and threw it into the circle. But there were no players. Sardar tried to dodge past a couple but there is a certain cohesion that a player looks for — and that was not there in this team. As Marijne said after the match against Malaysia, this team had hardly played together. More than any other side, Ireland used that to full advantage. For a team that is making its debut in the Azlan Shah, they were sizing up the opposition better than the Indians.

The killer stroke came in the 42nd minute off Ireland’s second PC in the match. Shane’s flick was deflected in by Lee Cole, and Ireland led 3-2 with a quarter remaining. That’s a lifetime in hockey. But India faltered. They ran all over the turf like headless chickens. Staring at defeat, they didn’t know where to look for inspiration. Losing is not something that teams don’t endure. But to lose a match where technical skills like trapping, passing, creating momentum, holding the ball is completely lost not only speaks volumes of a team’s powers at a comeback, it also in a way, if not fully, puts a question mark on the management.

Victories hide a lot of shortcomings but defeats open up like sore pores, especially against Ireland. India were playing their eight match and had only lost once before. The second loss would be forgotten in time. Such is the calendar that teams, fans, players all move on in time. But a match which could have given India a shot at playing Olympic champions Argentina again was lost. An opportunity for Karkera to defend Gonzalo Peillat’s flick was over. For the team to take on the challenge of Argentina and try and beat them was gone. It was experience we were after. And that’s what we lost.

By the end, with five minutes left, India were playing with a gambler’s passion. Pushing and hoping that a ball would drift and give them an opportunity. Not a single well-constructed move took place. Not a moment of keeping the ball and finding that space was undertaken. They drifted into the match and meandered their way out of it.

Sjoerd Marijne says he can’t blame the team. But he did say they failed to read the situation, and that the quality of the team on the day was low and the level flat. Marijne is also of the opinion that the players should have taken the lead. Yes, in a way, one cannot go to town on just a defeat against Ireland. “It happens all the time,” says Marijne. “I don’t know where to start. It was just one of those days.” India will again turn up against Ireland on Saturday in an effort to finish fifth. It’s not only the team but Marijne who will also have to raise his level. Talk of revolutions is all fine, let’s get the fifth place sorted out for starters.

Firstpost



India blew away its chance to be in the final

s2h team

Prodigal India blew away its chance to be in the final of the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, going down 3-2 to Ireland which did nothing special but only played a perfect patient game to drive young India into a zone of discomfort and disarray.

Despite playing so well in the first half, which game them 2-1 advantage at half time, India played a different second half to let themselves down. Ireland smelt its chances and had their day. Two quick goals in the third quarter had upset the Indians.

Sumit and Talwinder Singh could well be the villains of the day, as they would often fail in crucial moments.

Its Simranjeet Singh on the right flank who rose to occasion when India replaced its goalie six minutes from the full time. His sprints got India two crucial penalty corners, but the Indian flickers were bundle of nerves. First, Amit Rohidas pushed the ball wide and then Varun too did in the next occasion.

So, its a historical low for India, as it had gone down to Ireland for the first time.

The defeat saw India blowing away its chance to be not only the final but also fight for bronze.

India started the match on high pitch. It pounded the Ireland citadel often but had to wait long to get the breakthrough. Ramandeep Singh struck his fourth goal to give logical conclusion to a overall dominance when he dived from the pushing spot to break the ice (1-0). later, India had many chances to build on, but poor finish let them down. First, Shilanand from the left wing spirinted into to after getting long crash ball, and sent a perfect parallel pass but there were none to interecept. Moments later, a goal situation emerged from other flank. Ramandeep got a long ball near D in a one one situation with goalie, but his hit aiming the other side was wide off the right post.

Varun Kumar then messed up India's second penalty corner when he pushed it wide.

Ireland bounced back into the game midway through second quarter with an opportunistic goal (1-1). Amit Rohidass, hero of first match against Argentina, came to Indian rescue with the second penalty corner.

He placed the ball to the top sidenetting to break for lemon with a goal advantage (2-1). Six minutes into the third quarter, the Irish tail was up. Indians were subdued. Trapping a strong hit from right flank, Sean Murray just tapped the ball in from close range, flummoxing goalie Suraj Karkera (2-2). It was a pass that Sumit should have intercepted, but only swept the flight of the ball to reach it to the scorer Sean Murray.

The turn of goals stunned Indians. Shortly, they had a chance to go up again, but Gurjant Singh from right hit his chance wide, as Talwinder Singh was in his habitual late in reaching his spot inside the circle.

Unstoppable Sean Murry could put the ball on the right foot of chasing Talwinder Singh in the 42nd minute to earn his team for another penalty corner of which finally the Irish took their first lead (3-2). Cole Lee's high drag outwitted both defenders inside the cage in addition to goalie Suraj

Stick2Hockey.com



Ireland pulls a fast one on India

Irish make the most of Indians’ lassitude in the third quarter


Some consolation: Amit Rohidas’ 26th-minute strike restored the lead for a while, but India could not keep the Irish at bay. 

India’s hopes of a podium finish were dashed as it squandered the lead twice and lost 3-2 to Ireland in the Sultan Azlan Shah hockey tournament here on Friday.

Having grabbed the lead in the 10th minute and in the 26th minute, India fumbled in the end in its last round-robin match.

Ramandeep Singh (10th) and Amit Rohidas (26th) scored for India, while Shane O’Donoghue (24th), Sean Murray (36th) and Lee Cole (42nd) struck for Ireland.

After rekindling hopes of making the final with a 5-1 win over Malaysia, India looked for another win on the trot.

India won a penalty corner in the 10th minute. Ramandeep came up with a great finish to direct Varun Kumar’s flick into the net.

India won another penalty corner when Sumit Kumar found an Irish defender’s foot. But this time Varun Kumar’s flick was wide.

With a 1-0 lead, India had to contain Ireland and ensure it stayed ahead. India denied Ireland its first penalty corner with a video referral that was ruled in India’s favour.

But India conceded the equaliser soon after through Shane O’Donoghue. The 24th-minute field goal was a result of good team work involving Kirk Shimmins, Sean Murray and O’Donoghue.

In the 26th minute though, Amit Rohidas helped India reclaim the lead with a splendid penalty corner conversion, finding the top of the net with a fiercely-struck dragflick.

A foot foul by Dipsan Tirkey saw India concede a penalty corner only 15 seconds prior to half-time, but custodian Suraj Karkera was on top of his job.

India seemed to drop its game slightly in the third quarter with Ireland scoring in the 36th and 42nd minutes through Sean Murray and Lee Cole.

The Irish dominated possession while goalkeeper Jamie Carr came up with some brilliant saves to keep India under pressure.

An infringement by Ireland helped India win a penalty corner, but dragflicker Amit Rohidas couldn’t make it count.

With time ticking away, India pulled out its goalkeeper to add an extra man in the attack.

Simranjeet Singh won another penalty corner for India in the 56th minute, but Varun Kumar’s drag was deflected by the Irish rushers.

Counting down to the final hooter, errors proved dear for India, while Ireland successfully held on for victory.

India will play the fifth/sixth place match on Saturday.

The results: Ireland 3 (O’Donoghue 24, Murray 36, Cole 42) bt India 2 (Ramandeep 10, Amit Rohidas 26).
Australia 3 bt Argentina 1.
England 7 bt Malaysia 2.

The Hindu



India hockey team knocked out of medal contention

IPOH: India's hopes for a medal contention in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup were dashed on Friday as they suffered a 3-2 defeat from Ireland.

Goals from India's Ramandeep Singh (10') and Amit Rohidas (26') kept the hopes alive for the Indian fans but Ireland's Shane O'Donoghue (24'), Sean Murray (36') and Lee Cole(42') were on the mark.

Ramandeep Singh from India was the first to register his name on the scorecard in the 10th minute.

Ireland's strong forwards led a counter-attack and it was O'Donoghue who soon found the back of the net, levelling the scores.

But two minutes later, India won their third penalty and Amit Rohidas did not the miss the given opportunity, taking the score to a 2-1 lead for India, after the first half.

India seemed to drop their game slightly in the third quarter with Ireland scoring two back-to-back goals in the 36th and 42nd minute through Sean Murray and Lee Cole respectively.

The Irish dominated with the ball possession, while their goalkeeper Jamie Carr came up with some brilliant saves to keep India under pressure.

Though the Men in Blue had more circle entries, they could not make much of it thanks to Carr’s attentiveness at the goalpost.

The Indian forwards started looking desperate in the coming moments and the team's forward attack led by Rohidas failed to make some close shots count.

Simranjeet Singh was responsible to win another penalty corner for India in the 56th minute.

Counting down to the final hooter, errors proved dear for the Indian team while Ireland successfully held on to their 3-2 lead to win.

India will next play for the fifth and sixth spot on March 10.

New Indian Express



Kookas Knock Off Olympic Champs Ahead Of Final

Ben Somerford



The Kookaburras will head for Saturday night’s Sultan Azlan Shah Cup final with a perfect record after two late goals clinched a 3-1 win over 2016 Olympic champions Argentina in Ipoh, Malaysia on Friday.

Australia were forced to come from behind after Gonzalo Peillat’s trademark drag flick in the 21st miunte, with Aaron Kleinschmidt netting the equaliser before half-time.

Trent Mitton and Kleinschmidt both scored goals in the final five minutes of the contest to maintain Australia’s perfect record.

The Kookaburras will need to wait on other results to learn their final opponents, with Argentina, Malaysia, England and India all still in contention.

The final will take place at 11.30pm AEDT on Saturday evening live on Fox Sports.

Australia won the shots count nine to five and the circle entries 14 to eight, but failed to win one penalty corner, relying on three field goals.

Chances were few and far between in the opening 15, before Peillat fired past Tyler Lovell for the opener in the 21st minute from a penalty corner.

Mitton came close moments later, before Kleinschmidt levelled in the 25th minute with a reflex finish after Dylan Wotherspoon’s baseline run forced a save from Argentina keeper Juan Vivaldi.

Kookaburras goalkeeper Andrew Charter made two sharp saves in the third from Peillat’s drag flicks to ensure it remained 1-1 going into the final break.

Argentina captain Pedro Ibarra centred for Matias Paredes to force a good save from Lovell, before Australia went ahead in the 55th minute.

Mitton weaved around three Argentine defenders inside the shooting circle before rifling a shot beyond Vivaldi.

Barely a minute later, Kleinschmidt showed determination after his initial shot was saved, firing home a bouncing shot with the aid of a deflection for 3-1.

Australia 3 (Kleinschmidt 25’, 56’, Mitton 55’)
Argentina 1 (Peillat 21’)

Hockey Australia media release



Men's Asian Games Qualifier 2018 - Day 2
Muscat (OMA)

BAN - THA     Pool A     5 - 0
HKG - AFG     Pool A     19 - 1

Pool Standings

Pool A

 
Rank Team Played Wins Draws Losses Goals For Goals Against Goal Difference Points
1 Hong Kong China 1 1 0 0 19 1 18 3
2 Bangladesh 1 1 0 0 5 0 5 3
3 Thailand 1 0 0 1 0 5 -5 0
4 Afghanistan 1 0 0 1 1 19 -18 0

Pool B

 
Rank Team Played Wins Draws Losses Goals For Goals Against Goal Difference Points
1 Sri Lanka 1 1 0 0 6 0 6 3
2 Oman 1 1 0 0 4 3 1 3
3 Chinese Taipei 1 0 0 1 3 4 -1 0
4 Kazakhstan 1 0 0 1 0 6 -6 0


FIH Match Centre



India wrap the Korean series in style

s2h team



Beating the higher ranked South Korean women in the fourth test after winning already twice, Rani Rampal led India clinched the rare test series even a test remains on the table.

Indian girls established a comfortable lead in the rubber decider today with Gurjit Kaur and Deepika scoring two unanswered goals in the first half. Poonamrani, who returned to the side after a long gap, scored one more in the next session of play before the team conceded solitary goal to Park Hi Hyun three minutes before the hooter.

This third win four matches ensured India the rubber.

Earlier, India won the opener with a solitary goal coming from Lalremsiami of National Hockey Academy. The goal struck in the fifth minute stood the test of full time.

The second test witnessed spirited fight from the hosts though the visitors could command a win, with 3-2 scoreline. All the experienced players in the team Poonamrani, Rani Rampal and Gurjit struck a apiece in the victory.

India lost the third match before regaining the winning streak today.

India are preparing for the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

Stick2Hockey.com



India women beat Korea 3-1, take unassailable lead

SEOUL: Indian women's team produced a splendid all-round performance to register a well-deserved 3-1 win in the fourth match of their five-match series against higher-ranked South Korea here at the Jinchun National Athletic Centre on Friday. The victory for World No. 10 India saw them take an unassailable 3-1 lead in the series with a match remaining to be played on Sunday. Two goals in the first quarter by Gurjit Kaur (2') and Deepika (14') put India in a commanding position while Poonam Rani's field goal in the 47th minute secured the victory for the visitors as Mi Hyun Park (57') scored a consolation goal for South Korea.

The early stages of the match saw India put pressure on the South Korean defense to win themselves a Penalty Corner in only the 2nd minute, which was well-converted by Gurjit Kaur as she put the ball past goalkeeper Heabin Jung to give the visitors the lead. After going behind early, hosts South Korea had the chance to equalize in the 4th minute but the Penalty Corner was shot wide while another PC in the 10th minute was saved by Indian goalkeeper Swati. On the other end of the pitch, India won themselves a PC in the 14th minute which was slotted home calmly by Deepika and put India in a commanding position at the end of the first quarter.

The second quarter saw chances come begging for both the teams but neither could trouble the opposing goalkeeper as the teams fought for possession in the midfield. The two teams tried to get behind each other's defense but neither could beat the defensive line or earn themselves a scoring opportunity as the defences for both the teams stood tall, meaning that India took a two-goal advantage into half-time.

The penultimate quarter saw a similar story as the hosts were looking for a way back into the match, while the Indians were looking for a third goal to stamp their authority in the match. It was only at the start of the fourth quarter when India produced a marvellous team move which was made up of some precise passing and clever skilful play as Vandana Katariya's in-field pass was slotted into the back of the net by Poonam Rani in the 47th minute. The third goal put India in a strong position to wrap up a series win while the World No. 9 South Koreans looked dejected as they had little time to make a comeback into the match. However, the hosts showed some spirit in the closing stages which saw them score a consolation goal in the 57th minute through Mi Hyun Park as India ran away 3-1 victors on the day.

Indian Women's Hockey team will play their fifth and final match of the five match series against South Korea on 11th March, 2018 at 1100hrs IST.

The Times of India



Scotland men’s squad Gold Coast goalkeeper change


David Forrester has withdrawn on medical advice – Photo by Duncan Gray

Commonwealth Games Scotland has confirmed a change to the line-up for the Men’s Hockey team preparing to head out to the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

Goalkeeper David Forrester, who was part of Scotland’s European Championship II winning team last year, has withdrawn on medical advice, following a shoulder injury sustained in a match.

He is replaced by Steven McIlravey, Indoor National League Champion with Grove Menzieshill in 2017. Steven made his Scotland senior debut in 2016 against Czech Republic in Prague, having come up through the age-group teams, playing for Scotland U18 and U21. He was also part of the Scottish team that took 4th place at the 2016 EuroHockey Trophy.

Announcing the change, Jon Doig, Team Scotland Chef de Mission said: “It is always bitterly disappointing for the athlete and their family when forced to withdraw this close to the Games. I send my commiserations to David, and wish him well with his recovery. I also look forward to welcoming Steven to Team Scotland and I am sure he will make the most of this exciting opportunity and be a great addition to the team.”

Scottish Hockey’s Head of Performance, Andy Tennant, said:

“Everyone at Scottish Hockey is bitterly disappointed for David, our focus will be to support his rehab in order to get him fit and ready for upcoming international events.

“Clearly this is also a great opportunity for Steven, who is one of our brightest up-and-coming goalkeepers, and we are sure he’ll relish the opportunity to represent his country at the Commonwealth Games.”

Scottish Hockey Union media release



Players income suffers due to lack of activity, reveals PHF report


Mohsin Ali

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan Hockey Federation presented last 5 years detail report of foreign tours, players’ package and hockey teams’ performance in National Assembly.

The report shows hockey players income is directly affected by the lack of activities at international, which is another main reason for lack of interest by the youth in the game. A player who was receiving almost 1.4million for playing in 2013 saw his income reduced near sixty percent next three consecutive years as the federation failed to arrange events for the team. But last year it again topped Rs one million as the PHF engaged the hockey team in number of tournaments that gave them some respectable earnings instead of meager peanuts.

According to details available, hockey team played in Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in 2013 in Malaysia from March 9th to 16th and Pakistan finished 6th, around Rs 12 million was spent on the tour and each player received Rs 2, 28,000. Same year, Pakistan hockey team played in World Hockey League in Malaysia from 29th June to 7th July and finished 7th, around Rs 22 million were spent, while each player received around Rs 300,000. Same year Pakistan hockey team took part in the 9th Men’s Asia Cup from August 24th to September 1 in Malaysia. Pakistan finished third in the event around Rs 20 million were s spent on the tour and players received around Rs 300,000 each.

Same year Pakistan hockey team participated in International Men’s Hockey Super League, in Perth, Australia from 17th to 20th October and finished 4th. Around Rs 15 million were spent on the tour and players received around Rs 225,000 each. Same year Pakistan hockey team took part in the Third Men’s Asian Champions Trophy in Japan from November 2 to 10 and Pakistan bagged title. Around Rs 25 million were spent on the tour and players received Rs 250,000 each.

In 2014, Pakistan hockey team participated in 17th Asian Games in Korea from September 19th to October 4th and Pakistan bagged silver medal, around Rs 22 million were spent on the tour, while players received around Rs 350,000 each. Same year, Pakistan took part in the Hero Hockey Champions Trophy in India from 6th to 14th December. Pakistan finished runners up, around Rs 17 million were spent on the tour, each player received Rs 224,000.

In 2015, Pakistan hockey team participated in 4-nation tournament in Australia from April 30 to May 12 and Pakistan won the event. Around Rs 16 million were spent, while each player received Rs 210,000. Same year Pakistan played test series against Korea from May 15th to 25th and around Rs 4 million were spent. Each player received Rs 165,000. Same year, hockey team took part in Hockey League in Belgium from June 16 to July 5. Pakistan team finished 8th, around Rs 20 million were spent with each player getting Rs 210,000.

Pakistan team participated in 12th South Asian Games in India from February 7 to 14th and Pakistan won the title. Around Rs 5 million were spent on the tour and each player received Rs 80,000. Pakistan took part in 25th Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia from April 6 to 16th. Team finished 5th and around Rs 15 million were spent and players received 240,000 each. Same year hockey team participated in the 4th Men’s Asian Champions Trophy in Malaysia from October 20 to 30th. Team finished second, around Rs 16 million were spent and each player received Rs 225,000.

In 2017, hockey team toured New Zealand from March 17th to 22nd and then tour Australia from March 28th to April 1. Pakistan finished 4th and around Rs 26 million were spent with each player receiving Rs 315,000. Same year, hockey team participated in the World Hockey League in London from June 15th to 25th and finished 7th. Around Rs 27 million were spent with each player received Rs 435,000. Same year hockey team participated in the 10th Men’s Asia Cup in Dhaka, Bangladesh from October 11 to 22nd and took bronze. Around Rs 19 million were spent and each player received Rs 240,000. Same year hockey team took part in 4-nation hockey event in Australia from November 8 to 12 and finished 4th. Around Rs 9 million were spent with each player received around Rs 120,000.

The Nation



UCD on brink of EYHL title if they can clip Pegasus’ wings


Deirdre Duke will miss UCD’s game with Pegasus due to a law exam. Pic: Adrian Boehm

UCD can take another massive step toward retaining the women’s EY Hockey League title this weekend if they can raid Pegasus on Saturday.

With a four-point lead already in place, this looks to be the toughest game remaining on their list with an eight-game winning streak under their belts.

It is one built around superb defence with no goals conceded in their last three outings and just one against in their last six.

Deirdre Duke misses the game due to law exams while Leah McGuire and Freya McDermott are out injured but Katherine Egan returns having missed the last outing with an exam.

For Pegasus, their 2-1 loss to Cork Harlequins was a hammer blow to their title chances and leaves them eight points adrift of UCD, albeit with a game in hand. As such, a win is a must if they are to harbour any title hopes.

Cork Harlequins are waiting in the wings and will expect to keep up the pressure when they face Hermes-Monkstown.

The Dubliners were finalists last year but a glut of departures – including Nikki Evans, Anna O’Flanagan and Chloe Watkins to pro teams in Europe – has seen them fall to the bottom of the table.

They are, however, an improved outfit from the one Quins swept aside 4-0 in the first half of the season with South African Natalie Esteves giving them a corner threat while Sinead Loughran should be back after injury.

Whether they can contain Stephen Dale’s outfit, however, is another matter with Naomi Carroll, the EYHL’s top scorer, hungry for goals against her former club.

For Hermes-Monkstown, it is the start of a very hard run-in with two games against UCD and an away trip to Pegasus on their agenda, meaning their April 21 date at Trinity becomes ever more important.

Railway have made a move toward pinning down a top-four finish in recent times with seven points from nine with three successive clean sheets as the likes of Orla Fox, Holly Jenkinson, Emer Lucey and Grace O’Flanagan forming a very experienced wall.

Next for them is a tie at the talented Belfast Harlequins against whom they won a cracking 3-2 result last November with Jenna Watt and Zoe Wilson causing plenty of problems.

Trinity will look to nullify the threat of Chloe Brown when they meet Ards at Santry Avenue. She was central to the two goals the Ulster side scored in their 2-0 success on home turf but Trinity will be keen to try and get some points to give them some extra breathing room over Hermes-Monkstown.

Likewise, Pembroke are three points above the relegation playoff place and so will hope they can get something from their tie against Loreto at Serpentine Avenue to ease the nerves in the run-in.


Railway Union’s Emer Lucey and her defence have had three league clean sheets in succession. Pic: Adrian Boehm

In Leinster, the title run-in sees Corinthian with a tricky home date against the defensively robust Genesis, Muckross going to Avoca and Old Alex travelling to Glenanne.

While the top three will all contest the EYHL promotion playoff places, first place is hugely important when it comes to IHL2 qualification.

With the bottom three of the EYHL all Leinster sides, one will certainly be relegated, taking away one of the IHL2 places from the Leinster league sides. Should a second one fall through the trap door via the playoffs, then only the top side in Leinster this season will get an IHL2 spot.

Women’s weekend fixtures
EY Hockey League: Belfast Harlequins v Railway Union, 2.30pm, Deramore Park; Cork Harlequins v Monkstown, 2.30pm, Farmer’s Cross; Pegasus v UCD, 4pm, Queens University; Pembroke Wanderers v Loreto, 2.30pm, Serpentine Avenue; Trinity v Ards, 2.30pm, Santry Avenue

Irish Hockey Challenge – Semi-final: Dromore v Blackrock, 3pm.

Leinster Division 1: Glenanne v Old Alex, 12pm, Glenanne Park; Our Ladys v Rathgar, 2pm, Terenure; North Kildare v Clontarf, 2.30pm, The Maws; Avoca v Muckross, 3pm, Newpark; Corinthian v Genesis, 3pm, Whitechurch Park

Munster Division 1: Ashton v Cork Church of Ireland, 12.30pm, Ashton School; Catholic Institute v Bandon, 12pm, Rosbrien; Limerick v Belvedere, 3pm, Villiers; UCC v Waterford, 12pm, Mardyke.

The Hook



Big weekend of Scottish National League after snowmageddon


Grove Menzieshill v Edinburgh University. Photo – Duncan Gray

After the recent whiteout it is hoped that something near a full card can take place this weekend, the prime fixture being the top of the table clash between women`s National League 1 leaders Edinburgh University and second placed Grove Menzieshill at Peffermill.

Perhaps an unknown factor in the run-in for the league championship is the impact of the absence of Scotland`s Commonwealth Games players – how far will results be warped by their loss? Not easy to determine, but it is likely to have more of an effect on the women`s competition, there are only four home-based players in the men`s squad.

Edinburgh University is in the driving seat with a three point lead and a superior goal difference over the Taysiders. A student`s victory would go a long way to retaining the league crown, but they will have to do it without injured Laura Swanson and Louise Campbell along with unavailable Becky Merchant and Amy Brodie.

University`s only reversal this season has been at the hands of the Taysiders, strikes by Sarah Jamieson, Jude McMullan and Jenny Walls contributed to a 3-1 victory, Ellie Hutcheson provided the only reply.

Edinburgh Coach Sam Judge said: “The last encounter against Grove Menzieshill was not a good game for us, so we are hoping to change that this Saturday.

“It`s always a close game and they have a lot of experience in their team, which is something we lack, but I`m confident if we create chances then we can win the game.”

Whatever the result of the top two clash this weekend, the chasing pack need to keep up the pressure with three points from their encounters on Saturday. Milne Craig Clydesdale Western will hope to do that against a GHK side that they put seven past without reply earlier in the season, Millie Brown scored a hat-trick that day.

Wildcats have their claws on fourth place, seven points ahead of Dundee Wanderers, but may have to work hard for the three points against Watsonians at Auchenhowie. The Edinburgh outfit have emerged as the best of the lower placed sides and only went down 2-1 to league leaders Edinburgh University two weeks ago.

Wanderers might fancy themselves favourites to take the three points against second bottom Grange in Edinburgh. They won the same fixture 4-1 earlier in the season, Amy Snelle and Charlotte Watson sharing the goals. On Sunday the Taysiders have their catch-up fixture against Watsonians in Dundee, a victory would close the gap on Wildcats to four points.

In the final fixture on the card Hillhead could draw away from the bottom three clubs with a home win over struggling Kelburne.
After the recent whiteout it is hoped that something near a full card can take place this weekend, the prime fixture being the top of the table clash between women`s National League 1 leaders Edinburgh University and second placed Grove Menzieshill at Peffermill.


Scottish National Division 1 game Kelburne v Western Wildcats – photo by Duncan Gray

With Grange idle this weekend Bromac Kelburne have the chance to narrow the gap at the top of the men`s National League 1 to a single point, but first they must see off the challenge of Hillhead at Glasgow Green.

Earlier in the season Kelburne surrendered a two goal lead to go into the final ten minutes level at 2-2, only for Chris Nelson to provide the finishing touch to the winner.

Although Hillhead occupy third bottom spot in the table with only three victories, the frustrating thing for coach Mark Ralph is the fact that five of his side`s seven reversals have all been by a single goal margin. So the Glasgow side may not be the pushover their league position would suggest.

Perhaps the closest contest of the weekend may occur at Peffermill where fifth placed Edinburgh University entertain Grove Menzieshill, a side two places above them in the table. If the students have aspirations for a top four spot they have still five points to make up on Western Wildcats.

The first encounter on Tayside ended in a 2-2 draw, first half strikes by Grove Menzieshill`s Gavin Byers and Aidan McQuade from penalty corners were cancelled out by Peter McKnight and David Mawhinney, and there were no additions to the score after the break.

Wildcats have the chance to shrug off their 6-3 defeat by Uddingston by taking full points from their trip to bottom side Inverleith. The latter picked up their second point of the campaign a fortnight ago against the Edinburgh students, but still trail Clydesdale and Hillhead by seven points, so victories are now required.

Uddingston have the chance to consolidate their move to safety with another three points at home against Clydesdale. The first game between the clubs did not work out that way, the Titwood-based side won 2-1 with goals from Patrick Lonergan and Ciaran Crawford. However, the Lanarkshire side seem to be in the goal market with both Steven Percy and Brad Hughes scoring hat-tricks in the mauling of Wildcats two weeks ago.

Scottish Hockey Union media release



JHL: SSTMI Thunderbolts 7 SSTMI juniors 0

By Jugjet Singh

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian Junior Hockey League (JHL) Division One Overall champions Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sports School (SSTMI) Thunderbolts whipped SSTMI Juniors 7-0 on Friday.

And after this, the JHL will take a break for the National Under-16 tournament on March 17-25.

But after the break, SSTMI Thunderbolts will square off against Division One Overall runners-up Pahang Sports School Thunderbolts on March 28.

Yesterday, Pahang SS beat last season's League champions Petaling Jaya City Council (PJCC) 3-1.

When told about the Pahang schools win, SSTMI Thunderbolts coach Wan Roslan Wan Rahman was taken aback.

"Oh really? Pahang won?," was his shocked response.

"That's news to me. And it only means we can't afford a break during the National Under-16 tournament break. None of my players will be competing in the Under-16, and so we will have to train harder to collect full points from Pahang," said Wan Roslan.

There are four Thunderbolts teams in the Under-19 JHL, funded and trained by Tenaga Nasional. The other two are Bukit Jalil Sports School and Anderson of Ipoh.

RESULTS: Division One -- Pahang SS Thunderbolts 3 PJCC Tigers 1, SSTMI 0 SSTMI Thunderbolts 7.

Jugjet's World of Field Hockey



Weakened Pahang edge past MBPJ Tigers

KUALA LUMPUR: The loss of eight key players did not hamper Pahang Hockey Academy (AHP)-SSP-Thunderbolt in carving out a 3-1 win over Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) Tigers 3-1 in the Malaysian Junior Hockey League (MJHL).

The East Coast team put up a good performance in the Division One match by exacting sweet revenge over the defending league champions at the Wisma Belia Hockey Stadium in Kuantan yesterday.

The Pahang team, who were edged 3-2 MBPJ in the league match last year, went on the offensive from the start and were always in control and were deserving winners.

Defending overall champions Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sports School (SSTMI)-Thunderbolt secured their second staraight win by thrashing SSTMI Juniors 7-0 at the SSTMI pitch in Bandar Penawar, Johor.

The Star of Malaysia



Canadian coach progressing through opportunities


Canadian goalkeeping star turned promising coach Photo: Yan Huckendubler (PAHF)

Throughout this week, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) is celebrating International Women's Day (8 March) by highlighting the progress being made across all levels of the sport thanks to inspiring females. Today we speak to an up and coming coach who is progressing quickly through the ranks by making the most of opportunities.

When Kathryn Williams was presented with the opportunity to join the High Performance Indoor Coaching Course organised by the FIH Hockey Academy in Berlin, Germany (which ran concurrently with the Indoor Hockey World Cup) she leapt at the chance.
 
“I was just super excited at the prospect of working with experienced coaches and players. I knew it would push me out of my comfort zone but this was a great opportunity for me to not only advance my coaching knowledge but also bring that knowledge back to Canada.”
 
Kathryn is a star of the indoor game back in Canada. She has played in three Indoor Pan American Cups and the 2015 Indoor Hockey World Cup in Leipzig. At the most recent Pan American Cup in Guyana she was voted Goalkeeper of the Tournament and was also selected for the Pan American Indoor Elite Team. She is also on the University of Toronto coaching staff and becoming increasingly involved in coaching at local and territorial level.
 
For all these reasons, Kathryn was selected by the FIH Athletes Committee to be sponsored to attend the course.

"There couldn’t be a better learning atmosphere. It was very tough and very intense. We would be working until the early hours of the morning and then getting up early to make sure our presentations were ready."
Kathryn Williams, Canadian Indoor National Team Goalkeeper

Nothing could have prepared the 28-year-old national ‘keeper for the intensity and challenge the course presented. “It was all systems go from the start,” she says. “We started with presentations and I was right out of my comfort zone from the off.”
 
Kathryn was tasked with presenting a strategy to cope with an opposing team pulling the goalkeeper from the pitch with three minutes left on the clock. The 15 minute presentation was made to a group comprising a diverse group of coaches from all manner of backgrounds and all levels of experience.
 
“The group was so supportive,” says Kathryn. “I got into it and it was great. There couldn’t be a better learning atmosphere. It was very tough and very intense. We would be working until the early hours of the morning and then getting up early to make sure our presentations were ready.
 
“I know it is crazy to say it, but in just four days we made some lasting connections. The course offered a chance to network, collaborate and share ideas to an extent that just isn’t possible via social media channels.”
 
Kathryn will be taking all she gleaned from the course back to Canada. The first thing will be to debrief to Field Hockey Canada coaching staff via a webinar. Then she will be working with both the university and the state youth teams to develop knowledge and skills in indoor hockey athletes.
 
“European hockey is very different to Canadian hockey,” she says. “There is a much greater emphasis on technical and tactical play in Europe. In Canada and the USA, we rely on fitness and running. We need to really hone our technical skills too.”
 
It was not all one-way traffic on the course. As a goalkeeper and current player, Kathryn was able to offer the coaching group a very different perspective. And the other coaches were keen to drill her for knowledge. “I felt very tested because I was asked about Canadian ideas and ways of applying the game. It was something I hadn’t been asked to talk about before so I really had to give it some deep thought.”
 
The long term aim is to coach to the highest standard possible. But for now, Kathryn says she feels at the peak of her game, so the next three or four years will be spent playing and coaching. But, talking to this thoughtful and dedicated sports woman, you get the impression that the High Performance Indoor Coaching Course has just offered her a springboard to a bright future in coaching.

Inspiring more women and girls to become involved in hockey, whether as a player, coach, umpire or in a boardroom capacity is one of the key aims of the FIH’s 10-year strategy, the Hockey Revolution. However, more importantly it is key to the sport maintaining its reputation as being a Equally Amazing for both genders.

With this year's International Women's Day movement calling on action to press forward and progress gender parity, FIH is encouraging everyone involved in our sport to motivate and unite friends, colleagues and whole communities to think, act and be gender inclusive. Join the movement: #PressForProgress

FIH site

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