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All the news for Sunday 2 September 2018

2018 Asian Games - Day 14

Men's Results 1 September (GMT+9)

11/12 place HKG - KAZ    2 - 2 (2 - 3 SO)
5/6 place    KOR - BAN 7 - 0
Bronze medal     IND - PAK 2 - 1
Gold Medal    MAS - JPN 6 - 6 (1 - 3 SO)

Final Placings

1. Japan
2. Malaysia
3. India
4. Pakistan
5. Korea
6. Bangladesh
7. Oman
8. Sri Lanka
9. Thailand
10. Indonesia
11. Kazakhstan
12. Hong Kong China

Asian Hockey Federation

Double joy for Japan as men win gold after thrilling comeback


Victorious Japan line up at the 18th Asian Games. Photo: Asian Hockey Federation

It was double joy for Japan as the men joined the women as Asian Games hockey champions after they beat Malaysia in what can only be called the most scintillating of matches.

A 6-6 scoreline at full-time reflected a game that was played with a ferocity and an intensity worthy of a final. With Malaysia leading 5-2 at one point, it was also one of the greatest comebacks by a team in a final. The lower-ranked Japan team (FIH Hero World Ranking:16) then held their nerve to take the shoot-out 3-1 and emulate the women to be the first Japanese men’s hockey team to win gold at the Asian Games.

The double gold means Japan becomes just the second nation to win hockey gold medals in both the men’s and women’s competitions. Previously Korea had achieved this in 1986 and 1994.

In the earlier bronze medal match, India (WR:5) beat Pakistan (WR:13) in another tightly contested game. The 2-1 scoreline might not have had the fireworks of the 12-goal final but it was an absorbing encounter nonetheless.

The men’s competition also threw up another hockey world record – according to Indian journalist and statistics expert BG Joshi, the 2018 Asian Games had seen more goals scored in a competition than any other international event since 1908. The 314 goals scored in Jakarta eclipsed the previous record – 300 goals at the World Cup in Kuala Lumpur in 2002.

The opening minutes of the final match of this absorbing Asian Games competition looked to be going the way of the rankings.Razie Rahim gave Malaysia the lead in the fourth minute as he scored from a penalty corner. Japan equalised five minutes later through Seren Tanaka but two quick goals from Tengku Tajuddin, both from open play, meant Malaysia went into the first quarter break with a 3-1 lead. Faizal Faari made it 4-1 before Kenta Tanaka brought it back to 4-2.

A goalless third quarter didn’t really prepare the huge crowds for the exciting final 15 minutes as six goals were scored in a frantic rush for the gold medal. Head coach to Malaysia Stephen van Huizen could have been forgiven for thinking his team had won the title when Amirol Arshad made it 5-1, but goals from Kentaro Fukuda, Kenta Tanaka and Koji Yamasaki made the score 5-5 with two minutes left on the clock. Tajudden scored his third and Malaysia’s sixth goal but the team’s joy was short-lived as Razie Rahim was sent from the pitch with a yellow card and Hiromasa Ochiai equalised from a penalty corner.

The players barely had time to compose themselves before it was shoot out. Malaysia had beaten India on shoot-out two days earlier but were unable to repeat the feat. Firman Ashari scored for Malaysia but Japan’s ‘keeper Takashi Yoshikawa saved the next three attempts by the Speedy Tigers. In reply Koji Yamasaki, Kenta Tanaka and Kazuma Murata all found the back of the net to give Japan, and head coach Siegfried Aikman, a historic gold medal.

The result means that no team will qualify for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games from this tournament as Japan, as host nation, have an automatic place. A further Olympic qualification event will now take place towards the end of 2019.

In the bronze medal match, India defeated Pakistan by two goals to one. Akashdeep Singh gave India an early lead and the score was doubled by Harmanpreet Singh in the 50th minute. Pakistan fought back through Muhammad Atiq but India dug deep to win the bronze medal.

The top goal scorer award was won by Jang Jonghyun of Korea, who scored 15 goals. Akashdeep Singh and Rupinder Singh of India finished joint second on 13 goals.

Final placings
1. Japan (WR:16)
2. Malaysia (WR:12)
3. India (WR:5)
4. Pakistan (WR:13)
5. Korea (WR:14)
6. Bangladesh (WR:31)
7. Oman (WR:33)
8. Sri Lanka (WR:38)
9. Thailand (WR:47)
10. Indonesia (Unranked)
11. Kazakhstan (WR:86)
12. Hong Kong China ((WR:45)

For further information on the Olympic qualification events, click here.

FIH site

Samurai will play Olympic hockey after 52 years, 20 seconds saw Malaysian 20 years wait vanish

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

Eight minutes remaining Malaysian were leading 5-2 in final match of 18th Asian Games Hockey. Last 20 seconds Malaysia has 6-5 advantage. Wonderful variation from 8th penalty corner Hiromasa Ochiai  scored the equalizer. Fulltime 6-6, in shoot out Japanese won 3-1.

The Japanese have double qualification as a hosts and Asian Games Champions in both category(men and women hockey), thus they have vacated a slot, now there will be 7 Olympic qualifiers matches will  be played  by 14 teams (two back to back  matches between two nations not qualified as continental champions).

Here are highlights of records made in Jakarta from B.G. Joshi’s Hockey Record Book

80 goals in Jakarta Asian Games by India is World record for maximum goals ever in any international competition since inception of hockey. Indian broke the record of  Argentina,
who scored 68 goals in the 2004 Pan Am Cup held in Ontario, Canada.

44 goals scored by Jang Jong Hyun of South Korea is all time top scorers in Asian Games. Jang scored 15(2018), 9(2014), 5(2010) and 15(2006) goals respectively in 4 appearances in Asian Games. He broke the record of Pakistani Abdul Waheed Khan, who scored 25 goals in 2 Asian Games (17 in 1962, 8 in 1966).

26-0 India’s biggest ever wins in  92 years of international hockey by annihilating Hong Kong on August 22,2018. 26-0 India versus Hong Kong is also highest tournament score in Asian Games (men). India broke Pakistan’s record, who beat Bangladesh by 17-0 in Bangkok Asiad(1978).

Murata Kazuma of Japan’s hat trick knocked out South Korea from semifinals. Kazuma’s 3rd Goal was 2000th goal in the history of Asian Games Hockey.

Japan (men and women) won the Gold Medals (double crown) first time in Asian Games. It is 42nd occasion, when both men and women title of the tournament was won by one nation. South
Korea have achieved this feat in 1986(Seoul) and 1994(Hiroshima) Asian Games.

314 goals in Jakarta Asian Games is a World record for most tournaments goals in the annals of hockey. Previously 300 goals were scored in Kuala Lumpur World Cup(2002)

Fieldhockey.com

Japan stun Malaysia to take Asian Games hockey men’s gold

By Richard Bright


Japan taste historic gold in Jakarta PIC: Asian Hockey Federation

In a stunning comeback, Japan men won their first Asian Games hockey gold to match the achievements of the women’s side, as both nations scored significant title wins on the path to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

Japan, who were 5-2 down, overhauled the deficit to beat Malaysia 3-1 on a shoot out after equalising in the final seconds to draw 6-6 in normal time in Jakarta.

Malaysia thought they had won their first gold when Tengku Ahmad scored from a deflected corner in the final minute.

But Hiromasa Ochihai levelled 13 seconds from time to take the final to the shoot out.

“What can I say, I am very proud of my players. They achieved what was deemed the impossible and they will cherish this gold medal for the rest of their lives,” said Japan coach Siegfried Aikman.

“They never give up attitude is what saw us triumph, this is such a great event for hockey in Japan as the women too won gold.”

The result means that no team will qualify for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games from this tournament as Japan, as host nation, have an automatic place.

A further Olympic qualification event will now take place towards the end of 2019.

In the bronze medal match, world No 5 India, the defending champions, defeated Pakistan 2-1. Akashdeep Singh gave India an early lead and the score was doubled by Harmanpreet Singh in the 50th minute.

Pakistan fought back through Muhammad Atiq but India dug deep to win the bronze medal.

The top goal scorer award was won by Jang Jonghyun of Korea, who scored 15 goals. Akashdeep Singh and Rupinder Singh of India finished joint second on 13 goals.

The Hockey Paper

Malaysia throw away Olympic ticket

By Jugjet Singh


PIC: Two-goal hero: Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin.


FIRST GOAL: Razie Rahim.

JAKARTA: After trying for 60 years, the Malaysian men's hockey team gave away a historical Asian Games gold medal to Japan on a silver platter.

After taking a 5-2 lead, Malaysia let slip the golden opportunity when they allowed Japan to claw back at 6-6 and then win the shoot-out 3-1.

Japan double qualified as hosts as well as Asian Games gold medallists.

The national players never missed a beat in the first quarter, and the goal fest was started by Razie Rahim in the fourth minute but Tanaka Seren equalsied in the ninth minute off a solo effort.

However Malaysia were in no mood to share the spoils.

Two reverse stick goals from seasoned striker Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin in a spate of 60 seconds (both at the 11th minute) and Faizal Shaari's 17th minute penalty corner gave them some breathing space.

Japan narrowed the gap when Malaysia started to look complacent with the lead, and Tanaka Kenta punished them for snoozing in the 22nd minute.

It was a befitting final, as Malaysia threw caution to the wind and pushed dangerously looking for more goals, while Japan sat back and soaked in the pressure as they had already qualified for the Olympics as hosts.

Malaysia settled down in the third quarter and even though Japan attacked relentlessly, the score stood and only 15 more minutes remained for a famous gold.

And just for good measure, Malaysia increased the gap in the 49th minute with a deft deflection from Amirol Aideed to make it 5-2.

Japan never gave up and goals from Fukuda Kentaro (52nd), Tanaka Kenta (53rd) and Yamasaki Koji (58th) made it 5-5.

Razie Rahim made it 6-5 in the 58th minute, but with 17 seconds on the clock Japan equalised off Hiromasa Ochiai and took the match to shoot-out.

RESULTS -- Final: Malaysia 6 Japan 6 (Malaysia lose shoot-out 3-1); Third-Fourth: India 2 Pakistan 1; Fifth-Sixth: South Korea 7 Bangladesh 0; Seventh-Eighth: Hong Kong 2 Kazakhstan 2 (Kazakhstan win shoot-out 3-2).

Jugjet's World of Field Hockey

Japan dash Malaysia's dream in hockey final

Jugjet Singh


Malaysia's Faizal Saari (C-L) and Japan's Seren Tanaka (C-R) chase the ball during the men's field hockey bronze medal match between Malaysia and Japan at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta on September 1, 2018. AFP Photo

JAKARTA: The national hockey team gave away a historical Asian Games gold medal to Japan on a silver platter.

After taking a 5-2 lead, Malaysia let slip the golden opportunity when they allowed Japan to claw back at 6-6 and then win the shootout 3-1.

Japan have now double qualified as hosts as well as Asian Games gold medallists.

The national players were impressive at the start with Razie Rahim giving them the lead in the fourth minute only for Japan to equalise Tanaka Seren’s ninth minute effort.

Malaysia, however, regained their lead with reverse stick goals by forward Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin in the 11th and 12th minutes before Faizal Saari added the fourth in the 17th minute.


Japan players celebrate winning the gold medal. REUTERS

Japan reduced the gap through Tanaka Kenta in 22nd minute.

Malaysia settled down in the third quarter and even though Japan attacked relentlessly, the score stood and only 15 more minutes remained for a famous gold.

And just for good measure, Malaysia increased the gap in the 49th minute with a deft deflection from Amirol Aideed to make it 5-2.

Japan never gave up and goals from Fukuda Kentaro (52nd), Tanaka Kenta (53rd) and Yamasaki Koji (58th) made it 5-5.

Razie Rahim then gave Malaysia the lead in the 58th minute before Hiromasa Ochiai’s equalised with 17 seconds left on the clock to force the match into a penalty shootout.

RESULTS -- Final: Malaysia 6 Japan 6 (Japan win 3-1 on shootout); Third-Fourth: India 2 Pakistan 1; Fifth-Sixth: South Korea 7 Bangladesh 0; Seventh-Eighth: Hong Kong 2 Kazakhstan 2 (Kazakhstan win 3-2 on shootout).

New Straits Times

Malaysia squander big lead and go down in shootout


Out of my way: Malaysia’s Muhammad Shahril Saabah (right) dribbling past Japan’s Tanaka Seren (centre) and Zendana Hirotaka (left) during the final at the Gelora Bung Karno Hockey Stadium yesterday.

IT was heartbreak all over again for the national hockey team after they missed out on the Asian Games gold medal and a ticket to the 2020 Olympic Games.

The Malaysians were beaten 3-1 in a penalty shootout by Japan after a dramatic final which ended 6-6 at the Gelora Bung Karno Hockey Stadium.

And Stephen Van Huizen’s men only have themselves to blame as they let victory slip through their fingers after taking an early 4-1 lead.

Malaysia got off to a sizzling start but slumped to a heart-breaking finish when they failed to hold on to a 6-5 lead – with only 13 seconds remaining.

Defender Mohd Razie Rahim gave Malaysia the perfect start when he opened the scoring off a penalty corner in the fourth minute but a defensive lapse allowed Seren Tanaka to equalise for Japan in the ninth minute.

Striker Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin put Malaysia back in front with a field goal in the 11th minute and was on target again a minute later via another field effort before Faisal Saari made it a 4-1 off a penalty corner in the 17th minute.

But the enterprising Japanese narrowed the deficit with a second goal from the nippy Tanaka in the 23rd minute to make it 4-2. Stung by the goal, Malaysia quickly regrouped and held the fort into the second-half break.

Mohd Amirul Aideed Mohd Arshad then appeared to have put the game beyond Japan’s reach after nicking a field goal in the 50th minute to make it 5-2 before it all went pear-shaped for Malaysia.

Japan stepped on the gas and their urgency was rewarded when Kentaro Fukuda scored in the 52nd minute to narrow the gap to 3-5 and the dangerous Tanaka sounded the board again in the 53rd minute off a penalty corner to make it 4-5.

With two minutes remaining, Japan opted to replace goalkeeper Yusuke Takana with Masahi Ohashi and pushed extra men upfront and that led to Koji Yamasaki’s equaliser in the 58th minute to make it 5-5.

But Malaysia thought they had the last laugh when Tengku Ahmad converted a penalty corner in the dying minutes to regain the lead at 6-5. But with 13 seconds left, Hiromasa Ochiai dramatically equalised off a penalty corner to tie the match 6-6 and force it into a shootout.

Hopes were high for Malaysia to repeat the heroics of their shootout win over India last Thursday but they slumped to a disappointing 3-1 defeat.

While the Malaysian team walked with their heads hung low, the Japanese camp erupted into sheer joy after lifting their first-ever Asiad gold.

The Star of Malaysia

Japan jolts Malaysia in a thrilling final

s2h Team



In a thriller of a final, despite trailing by 4-1 early in the match, Japan jolted Malaysia to claim its first Asian Games hockey gold. The final played against full stands presented one of best hockey seen in the recent times, though no such indicaitons were there when Malaysia easily piled up good lead early.

The match transformed totally in the last ten minutes of the game when Japan struck four goals and Malaysia one. The Japanese showed the world their arrival in style with a kind of game whose hall mark is doing the basics right, and never lose hearts when chips are down.

Malaysia will rue their misfortune today. They came close to Gold, turned out to be a case of a classic case of slip between Cup and lip. Playing only their second Asian Games final despite taking for in all the previous 17 editions, Malaysia seemed sailing easily to the target of gold. On the other hand, you have a team that stunned four time winner Korea in the league and 8-time winners Pakistan in the semis. Japan were out to prove their wins so far were not fluke, but built on the solid foundation of hard work and strategic one up man ship.

When Malaysia took a 3-1 lead in the first quarter and then was sitting pretty with a 5-2 score till ten minutes for the final hooter, the final of the Jakarta Asian Games was meandering to a predictable winner. However, the gritty Japanese, whose ladies have already won their maiden Gold, set the turf on fire in the remainder of the time, scoring four goals to draw the encounter to 6-6 at the end of regulation time.

5-2 lead in the 50th minute to see levelled 5-5 in the space of 8 minutes was a horror on field. But when Tengku Tajuddin struck off ap penalty corner, Malaysian tag was up with 6-5 lead, and a minute to spare. However, a controversial penalty corner given by Korean umpire Hong Lae Kim saw Japan's Hiromasa Ochiai again bringing parity (6-6). In the shoot out, Japan emerged winner with a 1-3 score.

Its a grand double for the Japan, whom many did not predict the possible finalists to say the least.

Japan men defeated Pakistan in the semi-final, before that Korea in the league to progress to today's final, and then made a history by winning the gold in this dramatic way.

Its a crestfallen Malaysians who received the Silver at the hands of their own King, who is also president of the Asian Hockey Federation.

Earlier, India defeated traditional rival Pakistan 2-1 win bronze.

Stick2Hockey.com

Japan win Asian hockey gold and qualify for Olympics

India beat Pakistan 2-1 for bronze medal

JAKARTA - History was made on Saturday as the Japan men's hockey team won their first-ever Asian Games gold medal after beating Malaysia.

The Speedy Tigers, who were leading 5-2 at one point, lost on penalties after drawing 6-6 in regular time at the GBK Hockey Field in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Stephen van Huizen's team raced to a 3-1 lead in the first quarter, with Razie Rahim's penalty corner goal and Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin's brace sandwiching Seren Tanaka's goal.

In the second quarter, Faizal Saari increased Malaysia's lead in the 17th minute before Kenta Tanaka pegged one back for Japan. After a quiet third quarter, the floodgates reopened in the final 15 minutes with Kentaro Fukuda striking twice in between Amirol Aideed's 49th minute penalty corner goal, before Koji Yamasaki equalised for Japan.

Razie thought he had won it for Malaysia with his second penalty corner goal of the night in the 58th minute, but Hiromasa Ochiai sent the match into extra time in the dying seconds.

Malaysia, who beat defending champions India on penalties two days ago, were unable to repeat the feat and lost 3-1 in the penalty shootout to equal their best achievement of winning silver in 2010. As for Japan, coupled with their women's hockey team's 2-1 against India on Friday, they became the second nation to win both hockey gold medals at the same Asian Games since South Korea in 1986 and 1994.

In an earlier men's hockey bronze medal match, India beat Pakistan 2-1.

The Indian men's maintained their recent domination over Pakistan after a below-par semifinal performance against Malaysia. Akashdeep Singh scored a brilliant field goal in the third minute to give India an early lead, while Harmanpreet Singh doubled the advantage in the 50th minute off a penalty corner.

Muhammad Atiq increased the heart rate of Indian fans reducing the margin in the 52nd minute from a counter-attack. But the Indians didn't repeat the same mistake which they committed against Malaysia in the semi-finals and managed to hold on to the lead to at least redeem some pride.

Another late equaliser against India was on the cards and the match was turning out to be a typical Indo-Pak thriller but somehow the Indians managed to hold on to the lead. With Pakistan withdrawing their goalkeeper in search of the equaliser, Mandeep Singh got a golden chance to make it 3-1 for India in the 60th minute but he failed to execute with only a defender to beat.

World number five India, who came into the tournament as favourites being the defending champions, will go back home with a bronze, having beaten 13th ranked Pakistan for the second time in the last three months. The Indians had defeated Pakistan 4-0 in the Champions Trophy in June.

The Nation

India beats Pakistan in the match of the tournament

It was the country’s third bronze

Uthra Ganesan


India's Manpreet Singh, right, during their men's hockey match for bronze against Pakistan at the 18th Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia on Saturday. Photo Credit: AP

They were pre-tournament favourites expected to clash for the title but India and Pakistan faced-off here on Saturday for a consolation third place, India winning 2-1. For the houseful crowd, though, it didn’t matter and the teams, true to their reputation, played out perhaps the best match of the competition.

With India and Pakistan, the performance is as important as the result. There can be no dull periods, no defensive play and no holding back, regardless of the situation. It results in exciting, non-stop action for 60 minutes with fortunes changing as quickly as ball possession. On Saturday, Pakistan brought all its intensity to the field, as did India, both out to prove a point after semifinal upsets to less-fancied Malaysia and Japan. This was India’s third bronze medal in Asiad. Pakistan finished out of the medal bracket for only the second time in Asiad, after 2002.

India got its opening goal in the third-minute, Akashdeep deflecting in a Lalit Upadhyay pass into the net. That set the template for the remaining 57 minutes with little to separate the two sides.

India had 15 shots at goal compared to 14 for Pakistan. India had two penalty corners to Pakistan’s three. The goalkeepers from both sides were kept busy and the defence stretched. The Indians, bunched together and listless in the semifinal, were a rejuvenated lot. They made good use of accurate aerial balls and opened up space from the flanks.

The Indian defence was impeccable in its clearances, especially Harmanpreet Singh who also scored, but left a lot to be desired in its marking. Pakistan forwards Ali Shan, Mohammed Atiq and Mohammed Dilber took advantage but ended up shooting wide before Atiq finally got one into the net. But unlike in the past, when it would have gone haywire trying to equalise, it kept its structure all through, credit for which must go to coach Roelant Oltmans.

There were still concerns, though. Pakistan’s defence was suspect but India’s forwards did nothing to make use of it. They were kept well-fed, often with just the goalkeeper to beat, but could not get past Imran Butt. They held on to the ball just a tad longer and questions would be raised on the accuracy and efficacy of seniors like Sardar Singh, S.V. Sunil and Rupinder Pal Singh.

But coach Harendra Singh insisted he was proud of his team and applauded both sides for showing character in such an intense showdown, Oltmans was satisfied too with the way his team kept its structure and created chances in the second and third quarters, Pakistan captain Rizwan Ali said India were lucky to win but his team was getting closer and P.R. Sreejesh said the team had learnt its lessons and was satisfied to finish on a winning note and take this as a morale-booster ahead of the Asian Champions Trophy and the World Cup.

The final, appearing to be a one-sided affair for the first half, turned on its head in the second with Japan coming back from a 5-2 deficit to level 6-6 with 20 seconds left and then putting it past Malaysia 3-1 in the shootouts to not just lift the title but complete a rare double with the women having triumphed a day before.

This was the first ever Asiad title for the 16th placed Japan, the lowest ranked of the four semifinalists.

The Hindu

India beat Pakistan 2-1 to win bronze in men's hockey at Asian Games


India’s players celebrate scoring during the men’s field hockey bronze medal match between India and Pakistan at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta on September 1, 2018. AFP photo

Defending champions India beat archrivals Pakistan 2-1 in a keenly contested match to bag a consolation bronze medal in the men's hockey competition at the 18th Asian Games on Saturday.

The Indians, who were the pre-tournament favourites being the highest ranked side in the competition, scored through a field goal from Akashdeep Singh (3rd minute) and a penalty corner conversion by Harmanpreet Singh (50th).

Pakistan's lone goal came from a counter-attack scored by Muhammad Atiq.

The bronze came as a consolation prize for India after they lost to Malaysia in the semi-finals on Thursday.

The end result would be hard for both the Indians and Pakistan to digest as both the countries were eyeing to earn a direct ticket to 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

The Tribune

India edge Pakistan to take bronze


Akashdeep Singh (R) celebrates with SV Sunil after scoring India’s opener. AFP

It was only consolation for India. The team that lost in sudden death on the back of an ordinary performance against Malaysia in the semifinals gave its supporters a lot to cheer about. India beat Pakistan 2-1 to win the bronze medal and put behind the hurt of not qualifying for the final. Amidst the chants of ‘India jeetega’, the team started on a fast pace to go ahead inside three minutes.

Lalit Upadhyay squared it up for Akashdeep Singh to open the scoring. Pakistan had their chances to level the score in the second period but failed to convert any of the two back-to-back penalty corners. When Harmanpreet Singh converted a penalty corner in the 50th minute, the game looked safe but Pakistan reduced the deficit two minutes later.
Despite a few scares in the dying minutes, India held on. Indian skipper PR Sreejesh said: “We had a bad day on Thursday. We wanted to prove ourselves that we were better than that. We finished on a winning note so that’s a great boost for the team.”

Indian coach Harendra Singh said he was proud that the team showed character to bounce back from the loss. “Going back empty-handed would have been a disaster. Something is better than nothing,” said Harendra.

Double gold for Japan

Japan played out of their skins to stun Malaysia in the final and win their first Asian Games gold medal ever.

Down 2-5 in the last quarter, Japan scored thrice to equalise 5-5, and then scored in the last minute to equalise again at 6-6 to force a shootout. Malaysia, also looking for their first Asiad gold, were guilty of sitting back and trying to defend their lead. In the shootout, Japan won 3-1 to make it a double gold. The women had beaten India in the final on Friday.

The Tribune

Akashdeep, Harmanpreet Singh score as India beat Pakistan 2-1 to win men's hockey bronze


India secured a bronze medal at the Asian Games. Image credit: Twitter

India maintained their recent domination over arch-rivals Pakistan with a fighting 2-1 win to bag a consolation bronze medal after a below-par semi-final performance at the 18th Asian Games on Saturday.

Akashdeep Singh scored a brilliant field goal in the third minute while Harmanpreet Singh extended India's advantage in the 50th minute off a penalty corner.

Muhammad Atiq increased the heart rate of Indian fans reducing the margin in the 52nd minute from a counter-attack.

But the Indians didn't repeat the mistake they had made against Malaysia in the semi-finals and managed to hold on to the lead to at least redeem some pride.

This is the second time in three months that world number five India have beaten 13th-ranked Pakistan. The Indians had defeated Pakistan 4-0 in the Champions Trophy in June.

After the semi-final heartbreak, India on Saturday seemed like a team on a mission from the first minute.

After creating a couple of early chances, the Indians struck through Akashdeep, who fired the ball into the goal over Pakistan goalkeeper Imran Butt after receiving a measured pass from Lalit Upadhyay as the partisan Indian crowd went into a frenzy.

Pakistan almost equalised in the fifth minute but Atiq's reverse hit could only find the right post. A referral was taken but it was adjudged that the ball had not crossed the goal line.

From there on, India were all over Pakistan in the opening quarter but could not extend the lead after Mandeep Singh missed an easy chance.

Pakistan came out an improved side in the second quarter, making more repeated forays into the Indian circle. Their two attempts through Muhammad Dilbeer and Ajaz Ahmad were unsuccessful. Dilbeer hit his shot wide while Ahmad's try was blocked by an Indian defender.

Pakistan got two back-to-back penalty corners in the 22nd minute, but wasted both.

In the second and third quarters, India were a bit sloppy with their trapping and passing, ensuring more possession for Pakistan.

Against the run of play, SV Sunil got a great ball into the striking circle three minutes before half time but he could not beat the Pakistani goalkeeper.

More creativity was seen from India after the start of second half. A brilliant one-two from Sardar Singh and Akashdeep set up a good ball for Sunil but he failed to slot it in on the run.

Pakistan earned their third penalty corner in the 39th minute but Muhammad Irfan made a mess of it. No goal was added to the scoreline in the third quarter.

In the fourth quarter, India kept looking for the second goal with repeated entries into the Pakistani circle. They finally got the cushion goal from their first penalty corner in the 50th minute which was neatly converted by dragflicker Harmanpreet.

Pakistan made an immediate fightback through Atiq, who put the ball in after a fine pass from Mahmood Abu Bakar from a counter-attack.

Another late equaliser against India was on the cards and the match was turning out to be a typical Indo-Pak thriller but somehow the Indians managed to hold on to the lead.

With Pakistan withdrawing their goalkeeper in search of the equaliser, Mandeep Singh got a golden chance to make it 3-1 for India in the 60th minute but he failed to execute with only a defender to beat.

Firstpost

India shatter Pakistan’s hopes for bronze with 2-1 victory



JAKARTA: India shattered Pakistan’s hopes for a bronze medal with a 2-1 victory in a classification match for third position during the Asian Game 2018 Hockey Tournament at Gelora Bung Karno Sports Complex here on Saturday.

This was India’s third bronze medal in the Asiad while Pakistan finished out of the medal bracket only for the second time in the Asiad, after 2002. Both teams had won all their five pool games with big margins. But they perished in the semifinals. India lost to Malaysia who Pakistan had beaten 4-1 in the pool while Pakistan went down to Japan who India had trounced 8-0.

For the houseful crowd, though, it didn’t matter and the teams, true to their reputation, played out perhaps the best match of the competition.

With India and Pakistan, the performance is as important as the result. There can be no dull periods, no defensive play and no holding back, regardless of the situation. It results in exciting, non-stop action for 60 minutes with fortunes changing as quickly as ball possession.

Akashdeep Singh scored a field goal in the third minute and gave his team an early lead which Pakistan had a hard time catching up on.

India’s advantage was doubled when Harmanpreet Singh scored another goal off a penalty corner in the 50th minute.

Muhammad Ateeq managed to reduce the margin for Pakistan in the 52nd minute, however, the game was lost by that time.

Looking for the equaliser, Pakistan threw players up front and also withdrew goal keeper for an outfielder. India found gaps and thrice entered the Pakistan circle but failed to increase the lead.

India had 15 shots at goal compared to 14 for Pakistan. India had two penalty corners to Pakistan’s three. The goalkeepers from both sides were kept busy and the defence stretched.

Pakistan coach Roelant Oltmans was satisfied too with the way his team kept their structure and created chances in the second and third quarters. Pakistan captain Rizwan Senior said India were lucky to win, but his team were getting closer.

Japan qualify for Tokyo Olympics 2020

History was made on Saturday when Japan won their first-ever Asian Games gold medal after beating Malaysia. The Speedy Tigers, who were leading 5-2 at one point, lost on penalties after drawing 6-6 in regular time at the GBK Sports Complex.

Stephen van Huizen’s team raced to a 3-1 lead in the first quarter, with Razie Rahim’s penalty corner goal and Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin’s brace sandwiching Seren Tanaka’s goal. In the second quarter, Faizal Saari increased Malaysia’s lead in the 17th minute before Kenta Tanaka pegged one back for Japan. After a quiet third quarter, the floodgates reopened in the final 15 minutes with Kentaro Fukuda striking twice in between Amirol Aideed’s 49th minute penalty corner goal, before Koji Yamasaki equalised for Japan.

Razie thought he had won it for Malaysia with his second penalty corner goal of the night in the 58th minute, but Hiromasa Ochiai sent the match into extra time in the dying seconds. Malaysia, who beat defending champions India on penalties two days ago, were unable to repeat the feat and lost 3-1 in the penalty shootout to equal their best achievement of winning silver in 2010.

As for Japan, coupled with their women’s hockey team’s 2-1 against India on Friday, they became the second nation to win both hockey gold medals at the same Asian Games since South Korea in 1986 and 1994.

The Daily Times

Pakistan lose hockey bronze to India, Japan strike gold


India beat Pakistan 2-1 in bronze medal match. PHOTO: AFP

JAKARTA: Japan staged a spectacular regulation time comeback to draw 6-6 before edging out Malaysia 3-1 in a penalty shootout and claim the men’s hockey gold at the Asian Games on Saturday.

On the other hand, India, Asian Games winners in Incheon four years ago, won the bronze by beating arch-rivals Pakistan 2-1.

Trailing 4-1 in the second period and then 5-2 in the fourth, Japan pumped in three goals through Kentaro Fukuda, Kenta Tanaka and Koji Yamasaki in a seven-minute blitz to level the pulsating contest.

Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin completed his hat-trick in the 59th minute to put Malaysia ahead again, rekindling their hopes of an Asian gold which secures a place at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. But, Hiromasa Ochiai levelled when he scored from a penalty corner with 13 seconds left to force the shootout won by Japan who already have a place at the Tokyo Games as hosts.


Gold medallists Team Japan players pose for a photo. REUTERS

In the third position match, India defeated Pakistan 2-1 in what was a poor consolation for hockey’s former giants. Harendra Singh’s side were impressive in the early stages of the competition, pumping in 56 goals – 26 in a rout of Hong Kong alone – in their first four matches and looked on course for a successful title defence.

A 7-6 shootout defeat by Malaysia in the semi-finals not only dashed that hope but left India with a trickier qualification process for the Tokyo Games. “This is surely not what we came here for,” Singh said after Saturday’s win against Pakistan. But at least we are not returning empty-handed.

“Yes, the semi-final defeat was a big setback but my boys regrouped and showed character in this match. I’m proud of them,” added the coach.

India won the last of their eight Olympic hockey golds in 1980 but have not claimed a medal since then. Their women’s team also failed in their bid to secure qualification for the Tokyo Games, having to settle for silver after Saturday’s 2-1 defeat by Japan.

The Express Tribune

India beat Pakistan 2-1 in Asia Games hockey decider

India on Saturday beat Pakistan 2-1 in the decider for the third position in hockey during Asian Games 2018.

According to The News the Indian men's team continued to dominate over Pakistan as they bagged the bronze medal after they had failed to impress against Malaysia.

During the match, Akashdeep Singh scored a field goal in the third minute and gave his team an early lead which Pakistan had a hard time catching up on. India's advantage was doubled when Harmanpreet Singh scored another goal off a penalty corner in the 50th minute.

Muhammad Ateeq managed to reduce the margin for Pakistan in the 52nd minute, however, the game was lost by that time.

Dawn

Boys deserve applause for showing character against Pakistan, says India men's hockey coach Harendra Singh


File image of India men's hockey coach Harendra Singh. AFP

Jakarta: India chief coach Harendra Singh lauded his players for overcoming the disappointment of semi-final defeat and showing character by beating Pakistan to claim the bronze medal at the Asian Games on Saturday.

India prevailed 2-1 over a fighting Pakistan in the bronze medal play-off with Akashdeep and Harmanpret Singh finding the net for the winners.

"This is not the medal we wanted but we are not returning empty-handed at-least. The boys deserve applause for regrouping and showing character after the semi-final setback," Harendra told reporters.

India were gold medal favourites but lost their semi-final to Malaysia in sudden death.

Pakistan captain Muhammed Rizwan Sr said India were "lucky" to win since they had upper hand in the fourth quarter.

"We tried to comeback but could not. We had chances we did not capitalise. Earlier, India would beat us 4-0 5-0 but we gave then tough time out there today. At the Champions Trophy they played exceptionally well but here we matched them. They were lucky to win. We had upper hand in fourth quarter," said the Pakistan skipper.

Responding to that, Harendra said, "Nobody will watch the videos to see who was tough who was not. The history will tell that India won a bronze."

Rizwan said not being able to convert three penalty corners, pegged them back in the match.

"If we will not convert PCs, how are we expected to win? It's still a work in progress. (Coach) Oltmans has got little time to work on that. We missed Sohail (Abbas) bhai in this match."

Asked about India's strategy to play aerial balls consistently, Harendra said: "You have to have something to surprise your opponent. You strategise according to the weaknesses of the opponents."

Firstpost

India the best Asian team, should be disappointed with bronze, says Pakistan coach Roelant Oltmans


File photo of India hockey coach Roelant Oltmans. AFP

Jakarta: Pakistan coach Roelant Oltmans says India were by far the best side in the Asian Games and should be disappointed to end their campaign with a below-par bronze medal.

Oltmans, who was sacked as India coach last year, was appointed Pakistan coach in March.

"They are by far the best team in Asia. It was surprising that they lost to Malaysia (in the semis). They should be disappointed," Oltmans told PTI after India beat Pakistan 2-1 in the third place play-off.

Asked why Malaysia have proved to be tricky opponents for world number five India, who happens to have an upper hand against Pakistan of late, Oltmans said: "They should not have lost to Malaysia but the problem of conceding late goals is common with all Asian teams.

"It is disappointing to lose to India today. I think we were better in the third and fourth quarter. But is still early days (for the development of the team). We are trying to build a proper structure and put Pakistan hockey back on track," said the Dutchman.

Oltmans is someone who knows a lot about the current crop of players. A lot of people may think the culture in India and Pakistan is alike but Oltmans doesn't think so.

"The two countries are completely different. The biggest difference is the religion. It is not a negative neither a positive. It is what it is," he said.

Like Oltmans, former Pakistan player Rehan Butt too was surprised that India lost to Malaysia.

"It is a big surprise. You guys should figure out soon why Malaysia is troubling you so much. You have to analyse. India is the best team in Asia but today's match was very competitive. I think the best match of the tournament. But we are sad as we had targeted at least a third place finish," Butt said.

Firstpost

Rani Rampal to be India's flag-bearer in Asiad closing ceremony


Rani Rampal , Twitter @TheHockeyIndia

Indian women's hockey team captain Rani Rampal was on Saturday selected as India's flag-bearer for the closing ceremony of the 18th Asian Games.

"Rani will be the flag-bearer for tomorrow's ceremony," Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president Narinder Batra said.

Batra is also heading world hockey body, FIH Javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra was India's flag-bearer at the opening ceremony. Chopra went on to win the gold medal comfortably.

Rani led India to a silver medal finish at the Asian Games on Friday. They made their first final in 20 years but ended up losing to Japan 1-2.

The 23-year-old, who is coming back from an injury, was in tears after the final even though it was not such a bad result considering the team had got bronze four years ago at Incheon.

Many of India's 550-plus athletes have gone back home after competition. The choice of the closing ceremony flag-bearer depends on the availability of the athletes.

Daily News & Analysis

India women's hockey team needs to add ruggedness to game after heartbreaking defeat in final

Sundeep Misra


Silver medalist India's team walks after losing to Japan during their gold medal match at the women's hockey match at the 18th Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia, Friday, Aug. 31, 2018. Japan won gold. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)

Two hours before the women's hockey final between India and Japan on Friday, opposite the Grand Stand, yellow linoleum seats were gleaming in the bright stadium light. Half an hour before the final, 7.30pm, they were full, the tri-colour fluttering and there was a buzz among Indian fans that filled up 80 percent of the available seats. As the Indian women warmed-up, resounding cheers reverberated around the small stadium. This was by far the biggest Indian fan turn-out at the Asian Games. After the match, the Indian captain, Rani Rampal, said, "Amazing! Hamare match ke liye itne Indian fans."

She would be terribly disappointed too. Silver medal around her neck, she spoke about letting the fans down, on the missed chances, the opportunity of creating history and a team that reached the Asian Games final after 20 years. The last time in Bangkok, '98, India lost to South Korea 1-2. Twenty years on, the rivals are Japan but the margin is still the same. The disappointment may be deeper. In '98, the Koreas were superior. This time around India were ranked 9th while Japan, 14th. The loss hurts.

But Rani admitted grudgingly that Japan, for stretches in the four quarters, controlled the game better. Rankings are an indulgence in modern hockey. Except for the top four, anybody can dislodge the other from its pedestal. The Irish women recently played the World Cup final against the No 1 ranked team in the world, the Dutch. Ireland were ranked 16th. Better coaching, deeper insights into the sport, improving infrastructure has bridged the gap that earlier existed when Ric Charlesworth's Hockeyroos dominated for almost a decade.

Riding on the quarter-final appearance at the World Cup in an extremely close fought match with Ireland, India came to the Asian Games, confident of winning gold. It's a missed opportunity. Unlike the men who imploded in their semi-final, the women, though ragged for certain patches in the match, held their own and on the strength of individual skill, possession and created enough to have closed down the match. That is the part that will bother them when they wake up in the morning, hold their silver medal to finally realise how close they were to gold.

Japan rose to the occasion. They controlled the match knowing players like Vandana Katariya, Rani Rampal, Neha Goyal, Udita, Navjot Kaur and Navneet Kaur could cause serious damage. The importance of the opening goal was underlined in the extended celebration that came after Minami Shimizu hit a flat shot that went off Savita Punia's gloves and into goal.

Before that, Lalremsiami, Navneet and Rani missed sharp chances that should be put away, particularly in a final. "It was important to be on the scoreboard so that we could have applied more pressure," explained Rani. "After that, we were chasing and you have to come out of your comfort zone to be able to mix up things to look for the equaliser. You are also vulnerable on the counter."

At times, the fluency came back like flicking a switch on. And for minutes, the play became so ragged that turn-overs gave momentum to Japan when India were the one seeking it. Sjoerd Marijne, the Indian coach, knew the weaknesses. The urge to deviate from the script, — an issue with both men's and women's teams — the urge to take on an extra defender, to dribble past another stick. All this killed the momentum when India needed it the most. At the back, Deepika Thakur, Namita Toppo and Deep Grace Ekka held their own. Grace, as usual, was rock-like with hits that pierced Japanese defence and midfield like spears.

By the end of the first quarter, India were moving well and it looked imminent that an Indian equaliser would come. Japan, a bit ultra-defensive, played structured hockey making it difficult for the Indians to get past, thus, the tendency of the Indian women to use individual skills and beat Japanese defences.

In the 24th minute, Neha Goyal slipped in behind the Japanese defence, into the shadow of their goalkeeper as Navneet drew the defences to the left of the striking circle before hitting an inch-perfect reverse shot. Neha, almost, sitting on the turf, deflected it in for a wonderful goal. It was a trademark goal from a player who runs like she has springs below her feet. Running and bobbing all around the field, she's a presence that doesn't look menacing but has this enormous ability to slip below the radar and in a blink of an eye, tap in the goal.

Japan realised the mistake and while India took the ball back to the centre of the pitch, got into a quick huddle and focused to get back ahead in the final. Japan's Mayumi Ono, their tall withdrawn midfielder playing slightly more defensive, opened up and played in through passes to the diminutive Motomi Kawamura, who in the 3rd and 4th quarter, raised her game giving a torrid time to the Indian defence. It was because of Motomi's trapping in the midfield and her runs through the middle that India had to constantly fall back. The momentum, so essential in trying for a lead or a match-winner, was blunted.


India's Vandana Katariya, right, react as Japan's team celebrate during their women's hockey match for bronze at the 18th Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia, Friday, Aug. 31, 2018. Japan won gold. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)

Yet, India blew away opportunities to close the game down. Udita and Vandana either saw their hits go off defenders' sticks or tried to look for more space before shooting allowing the goalkeeper to close the gap quickly and save off her pads. A little more patience and calmness could have given this match to India. "We had the chances to close it down," said a visibly frustrated Marijne. "But I am terribly proud of the team and the way they have responded to the challenges. Yes, we were close, very close."

With a minute left in the 3rd Quarter, Japan had their 2nd penalty corner. This wasn't going to be a direct effort. Japan knew that Savita Punia was strong on stopping direct flicks and only an indirect or a dummy run could give them an opening. Motomi is not their usual flicker but she picked up the ball and went to the left, dragging an Indian runner away with her. Savita fell to the turf, pads outstretched as Motomi unleashed a reverse hit that flew past Savita's pads and Monica's stick on the line. It was a strategic strike and Japan had pulled it off. It also gave an insight into the preparation that the Japanese did coming into the final.

Possession was key for India. They had to create and put some unbelievable pressure on the Japanese. But the turnovers hurt them. Still, there were a few chances in the Japanese striking circle which were wasted. Japan had no intention of extending their lead. They put their heads down and were defensively solid. In fact, with five minutes left in the match, with acres of space in the Indian striking circle, Japan took the ball to the extreme corner and just dribbled. India, unable to collect the ball, saw three minutes just fly away and so did their hopes of a gold.

India did create an attack in the last minute and even asked for a referral looking for a penalty corner with 39 seconds left on the clock. But once the video umpire refused, the Japanese bench celebrated. They knew they would hold India.

Surrounded by fans outside the stadium, Rani spoke about the mission of winning gold and how it slipped away. "We did dominate the match and we felt we could have come away with a better result," she said, visibly upset. "But we have to contend with the silver and hope we can build on this result."

The Indian captain believes India have a very good core group and can become a dominant force in the next four years. "This is a brilliant group we have here," Rani said. "And we want to achieve a lot as a group. We will work hard when we get back and now we must focus on qualifying for the Olympics."

Marijne believes there were chances that could have been utilised but also recognises the better-organised Japanese side in the final. "They played better and deserved to win," he says. "We had our chances and we could have taken it. But let's look at the future because it's very bright and this team has everything going for them. If they could reach the final here, they can achieve bigger things."

Looking back at the videos of the final, if not immediately but after they reassemble, the team would realise how close the match was – like playing on a knife's edge. And in the discussion later, each of the players would realise that along with skills, fitness and vision, there is a fourth ingredient required to complete the mix – ruggedness. Not only physical ruggedness but also mental. Japan held the edge there. They played defensive in the Indian zone with a full 5 minutes left to play! The Indian women's bunch is a smart lot. It won't take them long to figure out the answers as to why gold became silver.

Firstpost

Odisha announces Rs 1 crore for 4 women hockey players


Indian Women's Hockey Team , PTI

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Saturday announced cash prize of Rs one crore each for the four players from the state in Indian Women Hockey team which bagged a silver medal in Asian Games 2018 in Indonesia.

Patnaik, who congratulated the Indian Women's Hockey team on winning a silver, announced the award for the four players were in recognition of their achievements, said an official in Chief Minister's Office (CMO).

The four players from Odisha in the team, which played in the final of Asian Games after a gap of 20 years, are Sunita Lakra, Namita Toppo, Nilima Minz and Deep Grace Ekka, the official said.

Odisha is the proud sponsor of the Indian National Hockey Team. The state has always promoted hockey and is also the host of the World Men's Hockey Cup, 2018, a statement from the CMO said.

As per the revised sports policy of the state, the coach will also get an award.

The Indian women hockey team's dream of reclaiming the gold at the Asian Games after 36 years remained unfulfilled as it lost 1-2 to Japan to settle for the silver medal at Jakatra on Friday.

Daily News & Analysis

Unfinished business for Malaysian women's hockey squad

By SAIFUL AFFENDY SAPRAN

KUALA LUMPUR: Finishing fifth at the Indonesia Asian Games has not given national women's hockey coach K. Dharmaraj any satisfaction.

Dharmaraj feels that Malaysia still has unfinished business to attend to and will now focus on the Hockey Series Finals next year where Olympic qualification for Tokyo 2020 will also be up for grabs.

"I had a discussion with the players recently and all feel sad that we did not get anything at the Asian Games," said Dharmaraj.

"The players promised to remain with the team until we achieve the success we are hoping for.

"They have also asked me to continue guiding the team and not leave.

"I myself feel that we have not completed our mission. I am not satisfied and from now on we need to work harder to prepare for Olympic qualifying next year."

Dharmaraj added that the team will continue to train as usual for the rest of the year but will release a few players who have received offers to play abroad.

"From now until December we do not have any competitions, however, Canada will come to Malaysia to play a series of friendlies with us."

The national team missed out on qualifying for the semi-finals at the Asian Games despite managing a few impressive performances including a 2-2 draw with China.

Their fifth place finish in Indonesia equalled their achievement at the 2006 Doha edition.

New Straits Times

Hockey Series Open - Gniezno 2018 (Men) - Day 4
Gniezno (POL)

Results 1 September

LTU v CZE (RR)     0 - 5
ITA v CYP (RR)     15 - 0
UKR v POL (RR)     0 - 2

Pool standings

FIH Match Centre

Hosts Poland beat Ukraine to maintain 100 per cent record at Hockey Series

By Dan Palmer

Hosts Poland maintained their 100 per cent start at the International Hockey Federation Hockey Series men's event in Gniezno.

They defeated Ukraine 2-0 to make it four wins from four on home soil.

With one round of matches to go tomorrow it puts the Poles in the driving seat to win the event.

Elsewhere, Italy claimed a third win in four as they eased past winless Cyprus 8-0.

They will play the Poles on the final day tomorrow and could still catch the home side with a big win.

Lithuania have also lost every game after they were beaten 5-0 by Czech Republic.

Lithuania will play Cyprus and Czech Republic play Ukraine in other matches tomorrow.

Tournaments are being held across the world as part of the Hockey Series.

The event is a second-tier tour below the new top-tier Hockey Pro League.

Places are available at the Hockey Series Finals which in turn offer a route to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

Inside the Games

Brunet living the professional hockey dream at Royal Leopold


©: World Sport Pics

Royal Leopold face the Waterloo Ducks in a mouthwatering tie to open the new Belgian Audi Hockey League on Sunday in a Brussels-derby.

The Ducks edged out Leo in the semi-final stages of last year’s competition before succumbing to Dragons in the final. Leo, meanwhile, bounced back to beat Royal Racing Club de Bruxelles to take up their respective places in the EHL this season.

And this tie serves as a high-class fixture to set out their stall for the new campaign. One of the big players for Leo last season was Olympic gold medalist Manu Brunet and he is back for a second year with the club having previously played for five years with Daring.

Reflecting on his career to date, Brunet told Le Soir that he is living the professional hockey playing dream.

"At 22, I decided to move to Spain because I wanted to become a professional hockey player,” he said. “At that time, I decided to do everything possible to achieve this by chosing to leave Argentina.

“Then I opted for Belgium because the division of honour became more and more professional and, above all, it was much more competitive than the Spanish championship."
Brunet said it was not hard to make the transition on either a hockey or social level.

“I quickly integrated on and off the field. It was tough in terms of the weather, though, in Brussels and it is much colder than in Rosario, my hometown, and, above all, it rains much more often!"

The Argentine midfielder is one of the long-time foreign players in the Belgian league, the volume of which is subject for debate at the moment. This year, there are 77 non-Belgian players in the division – roughly 31% of the competition.

Some point to the value they bring in raising the level – paticularly top-line internationals who stay for long periods – but there are concerns that young Belgian players may have their avenue into the top league blocked as a result.

"The gradual arrival of players from the world's best nations has certainly helped raise the level of competition and position the division of honor among the best European leagues,” Brunet said.

“While it is important to respect the opinions of everyone, I find it totally absurd to say that we are mercenaries. Yes, I am receiving a salary. But I am a professional player. This implies certain obligations. I try to apply myself to the maximum, to train hard and especially to respect my club, my teammates but especially my family and myself."

Leo will play in EHL ROUND1 in Barcelona in a group with HC Minsk and Poland's WKS Grunwald Poznan from October 5-7 at the Pau Negre Stadium (buy your tickets here).

Elsewhere in Belgium, reigning champions KHC Dragons start their new season with nine new players and several having left the club during the summer. They take on Oree with both sides featuring two Irish internationals – Shane O’Donoghue and Kirk Shimmins for Dragons, Lee and Stephen Cole for Oree.

Herakles play La Gantoise, Beerschot play Racing, White Star are up against Daring and Antwerp meet Braxgata.

Euro Hockey League media release

Great opening day of Scottish Women’s National League 1


1 September 2018 at Auchenhowie. Scottish League Division 1 match – Western Wildcats v Clydesdale Western – photo by Duncan Gray

Western Wildcats and Clydesdale Western served up a thrilling 2-2 draw at Auchenhowie on the opening day of women`s National League 1. Wildcats roared into the lead in 12 minutes, Niamh Green`s determination won a penalty corner and Catriona Booth converted with a low drag flick into the bottom corner.

Wildcats continued to dominate proceedings in the first half but failed to add to their tally.

The second half saw a change of fortunes, Clydesdale got back into the match and Emma McGregor`s cross was brilliantly deflected into the net by Lexi Sabatelli for the equaliser.

The goal gave Clydesdale a new lease of life and Zara Mason looked to have put her side ahead for the first time but her effort was disallowed after a discussion between the two umpires. At the resulting penalty corner Heather Howie forced the ball home after a goalmouth scramble, again there was a consultation between the officials but this time the goal stood.

Only the combined efforts of Bronwyn Shields and keeper Jess Buchanan on the line prevented a Wildcats` equaliser. But the home side were finally rewarded with their persistence with a last minute strike from Emily Powell from close range to secure a share of the points.

Watsonians started their season with a comfortable 3-1 victory over Hillhead on the opening day. The Edinburgh side took only 14 seconds to get their noses in front through Lucy Lanigan, but by the interval Hillhead had drawn level.

Watsonians turned it on the second half and secured the three points with further strikes from Heather Tait and Kate Moffatt.

Dundee Wanderers made an early impact on this season`s campaign with a 3-1 win over Grove Menzieshill in the Tayside derby. Charlotte Watson gave Wanderers an early lead with a tap-in after Heather Elder`s initial shot had been blocked.

After only ten minutes Elder herself was on the scoring sheet to double Wanderers` tally. The third goal came when youngster Michaela McCarthy latched on to a rebound and calmly looped the ball over the keeper. Grove Menzieshill finally retaliated just on the interval, an overtime penalty corner strike by Sam Sangster, ironically a former Wanderers` stalwart, found the net off a defender`s stick.

Grove Menzieshill dominated the second half but failed to make any inroads into Wanderers` lead, although the latter had five penalty corner opportunities to extend their advantage but failed to convert any.

GHK also made a good start to the campaign with a solid 2-0 opening day win over Grange at Old Anniesland.

Scottish Hockey Union media release

KCAU hold Greensharks in league tie

By Elizabeth Mburugu


USIU's Rael Wangui with the ball when they played Amira in the ladies premier league at City Park on 09/06/2018 (Jenipher Wachie, Standard)

Kenya College of Accountancy University (KCAU) students held Greensharks to a 1-1 draw in a Kenya Hockey Union men’s Premier League at City Park.

Brian Kiptum’s 47th minute goal dashed Greensharks’ hopes of securing their eighth victory of the season and reducing the gap between them and second-placed Kenya Police.

Sharks lie third on the log with 24 points from 13 matches while Police have 30 from 11 outings.

Having had 23 points prior to their clash against the students, a victory could have seen them reduce the difference to four points.

Despite dominating the proceedings from the onset, Sharks failed to utilise their chances allowing the students to fight back and pick a point.

Greensharks captain Daniel Obunyasi said failure to kill off the match in the first three quarters cost them victory. “We dominated the match but failed to utilize our chances and score goals.

Which team are you supporting in the 2018 World Cup? To get the latest soccer news, text 'SPORTS' to 22840.

“We led our opponents but failed to hang on to our lead and also made many mistakes in the final quarter and allowed them to equalize. Apart from the last quarter mistakes, we played well and we are determined to improve in our next match,” Obunyasi said.

After missing numerous scoring opportunities, Victor Osiche beat KCAU goalkeeper Prince Gilbert to give Sharks a 1-0 lead in the 33rd minute.

Kenya International Leone Magomere, Chris Wokila and Vincent Nyongesa missed their chances to consolidate Sharks lead before the break of the third quarter.

In the final quarter, the students looked more composed as Kiptum levelled the score in the 47th minute.

After reviving their hopes, KCAU proved stronger for Greensharks with frequent attacks but poor finishing was their major undoing as they settled for a one-all-draw despite creating clear scoring chances.

In the men’s Super League Impala beat Technical University of Kenya 2-0. 

Daily Nation

Pair of late goals lift No. 4 Maryland field hockey over No. 13 Boston College, 3-2

By Lila Bromberg


Midfielder Madison Maguire attempts to regain possession of the ball during Maryland's 3-0 victory Michigan State on Oct. 29, 2017. (Marquise McKine/The Diamondback)

After nearly 40 minutes being tied with Boston College, forward Sabrina Rhodes scored to put Maryland field hockey team its first lead of the game late in the second half.

The Maryland bench exploded, hoping the goal would push them to victory, but just two minutes later the Eagles found the back of the net, robbing the Terps of momentum and bringing the contest back to a deadlock.

With two minutes left, Madison Maguire scored her second goal of the game to put the Terps ahead again. This time, the No. 4 Terps held on for a 3-2 win over No. 13 Boston College in the Big Ten/ACC Cup.

"I've always said to [my] team: Winners find a way to win," coach Missy Meharg said. "You just have to do what you can and stay present and know — always know — that you have the opportunity to get back in the game."

The Terps said they expected this weekend to offer the stiffest competition yet this season, after opening the year with three wins in California. That proved true as the Eagles pushed them nearly to the final whistle.

"After they scored [the first goal], we kind of realized that we're not playing some teams that are out in the west," Maguire said. "We obviously are playing a top-15 team so we need to pick it up."

The matchup was a tight defensive battle from the opening minutes and remained that way until the end, with frequent changes of possessions leaving both teams scrambling to get back into position.

The Terps forced a lot of turnovers but struggled to take advantage of their opportunities on offense until the final minutes.

With the game tied 1-1, Rhodes hit her stick against the ground in frustration after the Terps failed to capitalize on its fourth penalty corner in the second half.

"They kept coming back," Maguire said. "They were on our heels and everything, and we just kept having to keep going and pushing."

Towards the end of the first period, it appeared Maryland had scored its second goal of the game, but officials waved it off, and the call stood after a video review.

The Terps failed to score on any of their six penalty corners — which were their main source of offense during their first three games — but improved offensively in the last 10 minutes and ended with an 11-10 advantage in shots.

Meharg said the team reshaped the backfield in the second half to put more pressure on the Eagles defense and eventually score the two late goals.

"It definitely was a little frustrating," Rhodes said "We were a little frantic. We weren't connecting very well — especially in the first half — but we finished when we needed to."

The Diamondback