Welcome to the Fieldhockey.com Archives

Daily Hockey news updated @ 10:00 GMT

News for 09 October 2018

All the news for Tuesday 9 October 2018


3rd Youth Olympic Games - Day 2
Buenos Aires (ARG)

Men's results

AUS 4 BAN 3
IND 9 AUT 1
KEN 3 CAN 4
ZAM 4 POL 3
MAS 4 MEX 2
ARG 18 VAN 0

Pool standings

Men's Pool A

Rank Team Matches Goals  
Played Won Draw Lost For Against Diff Points
1 2 2 0 0 6
2 2 2 0 0 6
3 2 1 0 1 3
4 2 1 0 1 3
5 2 0 0 2 0
6 2 0 0 2 0

Men's Pool B

Rank Team Matches Goals  
Played Won Draw Lost For Against Diff Points
1 2 2 0 0 6
2 2 2 0 0 6
3 2 1 0 1 3
4 2 1 0 1 3
5 2 0 0 2 0
6 2 0 0 2 0

Women's results

IND 2 URU 1
VAN 0 RSA 11
AUS 3 NAM 4
CHN 7 MEX 0
ZIM 1 POL 2
ARG 6 AUT 0

Pool standings

Women's  Pool A

Rank Team Matches Goals  
Played Won Draw Lost For Against Diff Points
1 2 2 0 0 6
2 2 2 0 0 6
3 2 2 0 0 6
4 2 0 0 2 0
5 2 0 0 2 0
6 2 0 0 2 0

Women's Pool B

Rank Team Matches Goals  
Played Won Draw Lost For Against Diff Points
1 2 2 0 0 6
2 2 1 1 0 4
3 2 1 0 1 3
4 2 1 0 1 3
5 2 0 1 1 1
6 2 0 0 2 0

Official site



Namibia stuns Australia in Buenos Aires


Argentina top Pool A on goal difference Photo: Buenos Aires 2018

Namibia women recorded a famous victory in the second day of play at the Buenos Aires 2018 Youth Olympic Games as they defeated Australia 4-3 in a late morning thriller.

Captain Kiana-Che Cormack inspired her team with two goals whilst Joane van Rooyen and Taramarie Myburgh also grabbed a couple to earn Namibia their first win in Pool B.

Elsewhere in Pool B, Poland edged Zimbabwe 2-1 in a close encounter while reigning champions China kept up their fine form as they beat Mexico 7-0.

Speaking after their second successive win, China's Ning Ma said: “Today I think our match and our performance was great. I am so excited to be here at Youth Olympic games, it is my honour to to be representing my country here and thank you Argentina for setting up such a good pitch and incredible venue. Everyone in the team is really happy and I feel good here in Buenos Aires.”

Women's Pool A is topped by hosts Argentina on goal difference. They continued their high scoring streak this evening, this time defeating Austria 6-0 to the delight of the home crowd.

The other matches in Pool A saw India make it two wins from two as they won 2-1 against Uruguay. However it was South Africa who picked up the biggest win of the day in the women's event as they defeated Vanuatu 11-0.

Afterwards, South Africa's Ammaarah Hendricks said: "We are feeling great after this match and are exited for the Youth Olympic Games. We know our next match is going to be tough. We will tweak some things and work as a team to play better."

On their experience so far she added: "The Youth Olympic Games is an amazing experience, we get to meet many different people and get to play such a high level. It is fantastic and are really enjoying it.”

In the men's competition, India continued their dominance as they beat Austria in Pool B. Four goals from Sudeep Chirmako helped them to a 9-1 win.

Bangladesh meanwhile while pushed Australia to their limits, making for an edgy end to their Pool B game as Sawon Sarower brought the score to within one goal with three minutes to go. Australia however held on to take the 4-3 victory to maintain their 100 percent record. In the other Pool B match, Canada picked up their first win as they defeated Kenya 4-3 to continue day two's excitement.

Zambia captain Joseph Mugamba was the star of the show as his two goals helped his team to a 4-3 win against Poland in Pool A. The winning goal came within three minutes of full-time through Phillimon Bwali.

#YOG2018

FIH site



Mixed Results For Aussies In Youth Olympics Hockey 5s

Ben Somerford

Australia’s Hockey 5s teams have had mixed results overnight at the 2018 Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires.

Australia defeated Bangladesh 4-3 in the men’s competition but went down 4-3 to Namibia in the women’s competition.

In the men’s, the Aussies raced away to a 3-1 half-time lead against Bangladesh with goals from brothers Bradley and Craig Marais as well as Ben White.

Australia pulled further ahead in the second half when Alistair Murray scored but Bangladesh netted two late goals to ensure a tense finish.

In the women’s, Australia were undone by a poor first-half where they trailed 4-1 at the break.

Amy Lawton’s first-half goal was sandwiched by Namibia’s four. Australia rallied in the second half with goals from Lawton and Maddi Smith but couldn’t get the leveller.

Australia are up against Canada (1am AEDT) next in the men’s and Poland in the women’s (5:30am AEDT) on Wednesday morning.

Click here to view men’s report

Click here to view women’s report

For the first time ever, there will be 24/7 streaming Youth Olympic Games coverage through www.olympics.com.au/live-stream.

Australian Schedule (all times AEDT):
Men’s Hockey
Monday 8 October 1am – Australia v Kenya
Tuesday 9 October 4am – Australia v Bangladesh
Wednesday 10 October 1am – Australia v Canada
Thursday 11 October 7:45am – Australia v India
Friday 12 October 1:45am – Australia v Austria

Women’s Hockey
Monday 8 October 3:30am – Australia v Zimbabwe
Tuesday 9 October 1am – Australia v Namibia
Wednesday 10 October 5:30am – Australia v Poland
Thursday 11 October 12:15am – Australia v China
Friday 12 October 5:30am – Australia v Mexico

Selected Australian Teams:
Men’s Hockey
Lain Carr (18), Matcham, NSW
James Collins (18), Perth, WA
Miles Davis (17), Sydney NSW
Brad Marais (18), Melbourne VIC
Craig Marais (16), Melbourne, VIC
Alistair Murray (18), Tincurrin, WA
Jed Snowden (16), Melbourne, VIC
Christian Starkie (17), Perth, WA
Ben White (18), Blackburn, VIC

Women’s Hockey
Caitlin Cooper (17), Perth, WA
Naomi Duncan (16), Sydney, NSW
Amy Lawton (16), Emerald, VIC
Morgan Mathison (18), Gold Coast, QLD
Indianna Robertson (18), Bentleigh, VIC
Courtney Schonell (17), Narellan Vale, NSW
Jolie Sertorio (16), Peppermint Grove, WA
Maddison Smith (18), Albion Park, NSW
Grace Young (15), Yowie Bay, NSW

Hockey Australia media release



Indian U-18 women's hockey team beats Uruguay 2-1

The Indian U-18 women's hockey team maintained its fine start to the Buenos Aires 2018 Youth Olympic Games as it defeated Uruguay in its second match of the Hockey 5s competition here Monday.

Striker Lalremsiami (1', 19') continued her goal-scoring form as she scored twice again to help India defeat Uruguary, whose only goal was scored by Magdalena Verga (10').

The Indian team, on the back of its 4-2 victory in the opening match against Austria, looked confident right from the first minute of the match and scored through in-form striker Lalremsiami in the first minute.

India dominated the first period and saw a goal being disallowed in the ninth minute when Mumtaz Khan thought she had given India a 2-0 lead, but the umpire blew the whistle for a foul.

Uruguay's goalkeeper Victoria Bate produced a fantastic performance to make 13 saves in the match out of India's total 15 shots on target, to keep her team in the match.

The South Americans found possession of the ball in the last minute of the first period and scored the equalizer at the stroke of half-time through Magdalena Verga (10') to make for an interesting second period.

However, the second period was again dominated by the Indian team as they looked for a winner. The Indians took as many as 25 shots in total during the match, but could only manage to convert twice. The second instance was the one which brought India their winning goal as Lalremsiami popped up again in the 19th minute to snatch a 2-1 win for her team.

The team will next face Vanuatu on Wednesday.

Daily News & Analysis



Nor Saiful makes surprise admission

By Jugjet Singh

KUALA LUMPUR: National junior coach Nor Saiful Zaini admitted that half of his players are far from ready to play at international level.

The team are doing badly in the ongoing Sultan of Johor Cup (SOJC) at the Taman Daya Hockey Stadium in Johor Baru.

In the opening match on Saturday, Saiful’s team were edged 2-1 by India before losing 6-1 to Australia on the following day. They play New Zealand on Tuesday.

"Not ready. Nine players in the team are making their international debuts, and even though they played well in the recent China Tour, they could not cope against Australia," said Saiful in Johor Baru.

For the record, Malaysia, India and Australia are using mostly fringe players for the tournament as their best are representing their respective countries at the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires.

However, unlike India and Australia, Saiful’s side do not have a huge pool of quality players.

National junior coach Nor Saiful Zaini admitted that half of his players are far from ready to play at international level. (NSTP file pic)

“We do not have eight players as they are in Buenos Aires. Although, I do not want to use this as an excuse, their absence has weakened the team.

"Their replacements here are not ready," stressed Nor Saiful.

Saiful’s core players, however, did well for Malaysia in the 14-0 thrashing of Vanuatu at the Youth Olympics on Sunday. They played Mexico late on Monday.

“We need to look at the bright side. The exposure in the SOJC is a good thing.

“I hope these players will use the tournament as a learning curve and also understand what they need to do in order to improve.

"We played open hockey against Australia as I did not want to hold back the boys at this stage.

"Now we are left with no option but to beat New Zealand and then Japan to finish among the top-four."

For the record, the last time Malaysia played the Kiwis was at the Uttar Pradesh Junior World Cup in 2016, where they lost 3-1.

TUESDAY: Australia v Britain (4.05pm); India v Japan (6.05pm); New Zealand v Malaysia (8.35pm).

NOTE: All matches at Taman Daya Hockey Stadium and telecast live over RTM.

STANDINGS

P W D L F A pts

INDIA 2 2 0 0 9 2 6
JAPAN 2 2 0 0 4 2 6
AUSTRALIA 2 1 0 1 7 3 3
BRITAIN 2 1 0 1 4 4 3
MALAYSIA 2 0 0 2 2 8 0
NEW ZEALAND 2 0 0 2 3 10 0

New Straits Times



Coach Nor Saiful wants his defenders to rise to the occasion

By Mohd Farhaan Shah

JOHOR BARU: Malaysia youth hockey coach Nor Saiful Zaini Nasiruddin wants his players, especially the defenders, to step up to the plate when they meet New Zealand in the Sultan of Johor Cup match today.

Malaysia and New Zealand are both winless after two matches. Their clash at Taman Daya hockey stadium today should be a tight affair as both teams are desperate to notch their first victory in the tournament.

New Zealand lost their first game against Britain (2-3) and were thumped by India 1-7 the following day.

Malaysia lost narrowly to India 1-2 in their opening game but were thrashed 1-6 by Australia in their second game.

Nor Saiful said his players’ inexperience stood out like a sore thumb in the earlier clashes as nine of them are between the ages of 16 and 17.

“Unlike the team that we go up against, we have a really young squad while teams like India and Australia have players that have played together for a long time,” said Nor Saiful.

“The players are also adapting to the modern hockey game where it has become more physical.

“But this tournament is a good exposure for their development,” he said.

Nor Saiful added that he wants to see an improvement from his players, especially in defence in the match against New Zealand.

Nur Saiful added that his side played well in their previous two matches but the lack of concentration by the defence line cost them dearly.

“We played well in the initial stage but could not maintain it.

“We also gave away some soft goals due to poor defending.

“I hope for a more consistent performance tomorrow,” he said.

The Star of Malaysia



Asian Hockey Champions Trophy: India set to battle with top teams

The fifth edition of the 10-day biennial event will be played in Muscat.


Indian men’s hockey players during a training session. Photo Credit: K. Murali Kumar

Defending champions India will battle it out with top nations of the continent, including Asian Games gold medallists Japan, Pakistan, Malaysia and Korea in the Hero Asian Champions Trophy to be held here from October 18.

Placed fifth in the latest world rankings, India is the top ranked team among the competing nations, while Japan are ranked No.16.

World No.12 Malaysia, World No.13 Pakistan, World No. 14 Korea and a highly inspired Oman team round up an exciting mix of teams promising a fiercely competitive tournament ahead.

The fifth edition of the 10-day biennial event will be one of the first big-ticket hockey event to be played in the vibrant capital city of Muscat.

Introduced in 2011, with the first edition played in Ordos, China, the Asian Champions Trophy is a marquee event in the Asian Hockey Federation’s calendar.

The inaugural edition was clinched by India while Pakistan won the title twice in 2012 and 2013 before India lifted the title again in 2016 held in Kuantan, Malaysia.

“The AHF is pleased to announce that the Trophy unveiling for the prestigious event will be held on October 16 in Muscat. I expect the competition to be fierce and engaging for the global audience,” AHF President Prince Abdullah Ahmad Shah said.

He further thanked Hero MotoCorp for their continued support as the lead partner of Asian Hockey Federation.

“We are once again grateful to have Hero MotoCorp, one of India’s most successful business house and an organisation that has shown extraordinary support for the sport over a number of years, as title sponsors for the 5th edition of Asian Champions Trophy.”

The Hindu



Final day of FIH Pro League moves to the Twickenham Stoop


The Twickenham Stoop

Great Britain Hockey, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and Harlequins Rugby Club are delighted to announce that we have agreed terms to move the final day of our FIH Pro League season to the near 15,000-capacity Twickenham Stoop, home of Harlequins.

Following unprecedented demand in the FIH Pro League ticket ballot, Great Britain Hockey opened a dialogue with Harlequins and the FIH to host the final day on Sunday 23 June 2019 at Quins’ stadium, using ground-breaking technology that will see an artificial pitch laid on top of the existing grass surface.

Moving venue means that twice as many supporters will now be able to see our national teams in action on this day, when Great Britain's men's and women's teams take on New Zealand back-to-back at the conclusion of the first ever FIH Pro League campaign. This brand new competition sees the world’s best teams do battle home and away across the globe from January until June, with Great Britain games live on BT Sport.

This announcement marks another hugely positive step forward for international hockey in this country. This past summer, more than 110,000 tickets were sold for the Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup in London, making it the biggest standalone women’s sporting event of the year. With BT Sport long-term partners of the sport, youth participation up 80% since London 2012, and the GB women’s team the current Olympic champions, hockey continues to go from strength to strength. A full attendance of 14,800 at the Twickenham Stoop would be the biggest crowd to watch hockey in this country since the London 2012 Olympics.

All of Great Britain’s other FIH Pro League home games will take place at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre, hockey’s major events venue on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park that will have a capacity of up to 7,500 during the tournament. The venue has been central to the growth in spectators and has played host to world class hockey events every year since 2015, most recently the record-breaking Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup.

Twelve of Great Britain’s sixteen fixtures in the FIH Pro League were oversubscribed in the ticket ballot, with more than 105,000 tickets applied for. Those who applied in the ballot will be contacted on Tuesday October 9 with details of the fixtures for which they were successful. Any supporters who did not apply in the ballot can currently buy a season ticket, starting from £75 for Under 18s and £225 for adults for 12 games.

Great Britain Hockey’s Sally Munday said, “We are hugely excited about the prospect of taking both of our national teams to the Twickenham Stoop. The growing demand for tickets shows that the appetite is there for a venue of this size. We would like to place on record our thanks to both Harlequins and the FIH for their help in making this happen, as well as Sport England for supporting the innovative pitch development process. In addition, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority and BT Sport were also hugely supportive of the move, and we look forward to playing the remainder of our games at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre. The FIH Pro League is a huge step forward for the sport, and we are immensely grateful to our partners for their support.”

David Ellis, Harlequins’ Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted to be supporting Great Britain Hockey to bring their sport to a wider audience here in South West London. Our Club has a history of innovation and adventure and we take great pride in being able to offer our neighbours and supporters the chance to see something different at The Stoop. Hockey supporters from all over the country are welcome at our home and can look forward to enjoying a day to remember here in June.”

Thierry Weil, FIH CEO commented, “Great Britain Hockey’s plans to host matches at Twickenham Stoop demonstrates the innovative and ambitious thinking our National Associations are investing in the new FIH Pro League. Having witnessed the electric atmosphere created during the Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup in London earlier this year, we can’t wait to experience nearly 15,000 fans cheering on their teams in what will be one of the biggest FIH Pro League venues in 2019.”

Jamie Hindhaugh, COO of BT Sport said, “We are big hockey fans at BT Sport and it’s fantastic to see the game continue to go from strength to strength. We’re delighted that The Stoop will host a double header on FIH Pro League Final day, it’s a venue that we know well which will help create a fantastic atmosphere and great TV.”

To confirm, ticket prices will remain unchanged as the fixture moves to the Twickenham Stoop. If any tickets are available for general sale following the ballot process, they will be go on sale from Friday 16 November, starting at £34 adults and £11 Under 18s. Sign up to our Ticket Newsletter to receive the very latest information. To discuss Premium Experiences, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..



England Hockey Board Media release



Harlequins’ Twickenham Stoop to stage GB Hockey Pro League matches

By Rod Gilmour


Harlequins’ Twickenham Stoop will use artificial surface for the matches

Great Britain Hockey has ceded to ticketing demand for the looming FIH Pro League and moved a double header fixture to Twickenham Stoop, the home of Harlequins Rugby.

The ground will host the final round of Pro League fixtures in the new elite tournament, which launches in January, when GB men and women play New Zealand on June 23 in London.

It is likely that Quins’ near 15,000 capacity will be sold out given that GB Hockey has been forced to move venues, doubling in size  from its existing Lee Valley venue for the day. It means that the NZ matches will be the highest attendance for a hockey fixture since the London 2012 Olympics.

Ground-breaking technology will see an artificial pitch laid on top of the existing grass surface for the two matches.

This won’t be the first time that hockey has used other sporting arenas to transcend the sport. Luton and QPR have been used over the years when the two football clubs had artificial pitches. Lord’s cricket ground was also used when the sport was played on grass.

According to a release issued on Monday, 12 of Great Britain’s sixteen fixtures across men and women in the Pro League were oversubscribed in the ticket ballot, with more than 105,000 tickets applied for.

Nine teams will participate in the men’s and women’s Pro League, which runs from January to June and acts as an Olympic qualification route. BT Sport will also broadcast the matches in the UK.

While there is a clamour for tickets in the south, the Pro League hit a crisis earlier on Monday after Scottish Hockey severed ties with Pakistan to host its men’s matches in Glasgow.

Those who applied in the ballot will be contacted on Tuesday October 9 with details of the fixtures for which they were successful. Any supporters who did not apply in the ballot can currently buy a season ticket, starting from £75 for Under 18s and £225 for adults for 12 games.

The Hockey Paper



SPAR South Africa defeat African Champions

The SPAR South Africa Indoor Hockey Women’s have defeated African Champions Namibia 3-0 in a tough five match test series played at Danville Park Girls School in Durban North. The series was set-up brilliantly as it was the first time the two teams were meeting since the momentous African Cup final that ended 3-3 and was decided on showdowns. Since that match Namibia went to the Indoor Hockey World Cup placing a credible but also disappointing 9th, while SPAR South Africa went on a 15 match winning streak including a world record against Slovenia and a canter to the Croatia Cup title.

The series would also mark a number of debuts on each side but would feature heavily capped players, including Maggie Mengo and Jerrica Bartlett  for Namibia and Jessica O’Connor and Cindy Hack for South Africa.

The opening game of the series saw international debuts for Lilian du Plessis, Alex Kavanagh and Jessica Lardant for SPAR South Africa. Although the newbies impressed the first blood was struck by SPAR South Africa as 66-capped Jessica O’Connor, the top scorer in the Zimbabwe series, continued her form with the opener. Lilian du Plessis, who has more than 100 outdoor caps for South Africa, got a goal on her debut and after Gillian Hermanus scored late on SPAR South Africa hung on for a good 2-1 win.

In the second match SPAR South Africa gave themselves the chance to seal the series fairly early with another 2-1 win. This time the opener came from Eloise Walters playing in her 35th test match, as early as the second minute. Sunelle Ludwig pulled one back before Lilian du Plessis made it 2 in 2 to seal a 2-0 series lead.

The classic third game challenge struck again for SPAR South Africa who cruised to a 3-1 lead thanks to a second half brace from Jessica O’Connor either side of a strike from the recalled Amy Greaves. Maggie Mengo, in her 49th game for Namibia, had earlier given Namibia the lead. But in almost identical circumstances to the African Cup final, South Africa let the 3-1 lead slip and a Gillian Hermanus brace meant a 3-3 draw kept the series alive.

There was no back door left open for Namibia in the fourth game as SPAR South Africa sealed the series with an emphatic 3-0 victory. Eloise Walters rediscovered hera goal scoring form to settle the game with two late strikes after Cindy Hack in her 71st game for the country gave SA the early lead. The clean sheet was deserved for a fine performance from Zimi Shange making important saves when necessary.  Maggie Mengo got her 50th cap, becoming the first Namibian indoor hockey player to achieve 50 caps.

With the series already tied, the final game probably offered the most entertainment. Gillian Hermanus got her 4th and 5th goal of the series to give Namibia a 2-0 half-time lead. Jessica Lardant pulled one back with her first international goal before Dure Boshoff re-established the 2 goal cushion. The shoe was on the other foot though as South Africa sought to keep a remarkable undefeated run going and Edith Molikoe pulled one back with 3 minutes remaining before Jessica Lardant got her second in the second last minute to secure a 3-3 draw and a 3-0 series win for the hosts.

The victory in the series without tasting a defeat in a single match means SPAR South Africa have now gone undefeated in normal time in 25 consecutive test matches dating back to 27 November 2016. Coach Lennie Botha will be happy with the result but also with the continued development of a greater SPAR SA Indoor Hockey squad, now being able to call on around 20 different players with International experience. It’s bound to create some tough selection decisions ahead of the Psi All Stars series in December, but it’s a problem that I am sure Botha will be excited by!

SA Hockey Association media release



Euro Hockey League showcases hockey's 'Equally Amazing' values


Photo Credit: EHL

Our ‘equally amazing’ sport has just seen another groundbreaking moment as two of the top FIH female umpires took charge of men’s games in the EuroHockey League Round One events, held in the Spanish city of Barcelona last weekend.

Michelle Meister of Germany and Belgium’s Laurine Delforge became the first female umpires to officiate in the EHL as it kicked off the new 2018-19 season.

In another first, Margaret Hunnaball of England and Denmark’s Janne Camilla Nielson were also appointed as officials. Hunnaball was one half of the Umpire’s Manager team and Nielson was one of four Judges.

Speaking about the appointments, FIH Executive Board member and EHF President Marijke Fleuren, said: “Being a member of the IOC ‘Women in Sport’ Commission, I really celebrate these women’s appointments in a men’s tournament. In this way, EHL gives another best practice of breaking down barriers: appointing female umpires to men’s international ranking matches. Doing the job together is my motto and now we are doing that!”

Both Meister and Delforge have been getting in some practice at umpiring men’s games. Meister has been umpiring in the German top two men’s divisions for a number of years. What began as an occasional appointment has turned into a regular fixture in her umpiring commitments and now she is one of the most frequently appointed umpires on the circuit and has taken charge of 24 top tier games and 52 in the second division.



Speaking to Stephen Findlater for the website eurohockey.org, she said: “Last season, I had more men’s than women’s matches to umpire. In that sense, it’s already a regular thing. Only our Final Four are reserved for the gentlemen – so far!”

For Delforge, who took on her first men’s Honor Division game in 2012, umpiring men’s games is borne of necessity. Because she is also a player in the top women’s league, she is not allowed to umpire women’s matches in Belgium. As a result, she umpires Under-19 Boys or the men’s games, depending on her own schedule. She has also umpired the Red Lions in several practice games, including a re-run of the Rio 2016 Final between Belgium and Argentina.

So is there a difference in umpiring men’s and women’s matches? For both Meister and Delforge the speed of the game is the main difference.

“The speed of the game is the main difference so you have to change slightly your positioning during the game,” says Meister. She adds that she finds managing the men’s game is easier, particularly as men tend to play until the whistle blows more than women do. This makes it easier to play the advantage and see how the move pans out.

Delforge agrees that there is also some difference in how the game is managed. “Men and women process emotions differently and management of emotions is, of course, a big part of our job."

#EquallyAmazing

“This is why I will probably handle the exact same situation in a different way depending on whether I am umpiring men or women.”

Both umpires enjoyed a successful weekend umpiring at the EHL. Meister said: “It’s a great honour to me and recognition of our hard work. And I’m very proud and I’m really looking forward to umpiring the men’s on an international level as well.”

Delforge added: “I hope it’s just the start and others female umpires will soon also get the opportunity to feel ‘equally amazing’!”

FIH site



HC Oranje-Rood set to host EHL KO16/FINAL4 next Easter



The EHL will return to HC Oranje-Rood and Eindhoven for a week-long spectacular next Easter with the 12th winner of the world’s best club hockey competition set to be crowned.

It follows Oranje-Rood's qualification for the KO16, confirming they are in position to host the event runs from April 17 to 22 and will encompass the KO16 and KO8 rounds as well as the FINAL4 and the GRAND FINAL.

It will feature of the continent’s best clubs including the hosts Oranje-Rood, Germany’s Mannheimer HC, Belgium’s Royal Leopold and Three Rock Rovers who qualified via ROUND1 in Barcelona this weekend.

They will join the pre-qualified sides for the KO16: SV Kampong and AH&BC Amsterdam from the Netherland, Uhlenhorst Mülheim and Rot-Weiss Köln from Germany; KHC Dragons and Waterloo Ducks from Belgium, Spain’s Real Club de Polo and Club Egara, France’s Saint Germain, England’s Surbiton, Russia’s Dinamo Kazan and Scotland’s newcomers Grove Menzieshill.

Simon van der Boonen, chair of Oranje-Rood’s EHL committee, is excited to see the competition return to the Dutch city following some epic events in the past, most recently in 2017 for the KO16.

“Oranje-Rood cannot wait to organise and host the coming EHL rounds. At Easter in Eindhoven, join us for the best that European hockey has in terms of top sport, entertainment, full stadiums and a full range of side events.”

Chairman of the EHL board Hans Erik Tuijt added: “We are really happy to be back at Eindhoven and congratulate them for their hard-fought qualification for the KO16. It is one of the best facilities in European hockey and we look forward to filling their stands once again.

“Based on the EHL and Oranje-Rood’s successful co-operation in 2016, we know it will be a true festival that every hockey and sports fan will love.”

Oranje-Rood captain Mink van der Weerden, meanwhile, said: “Really looking forward to it. It made our task of qualifying for the KO16 here in Barcelona even more important.

“It’s an honour to host as a club. We did a really good job in organising it two years ago and every one of us is really keen to play in front of our home crowd.”

The live draw for the EHL KO16 will take place on October 21 at Oranje-Rood when the club play a home double-header with the men facing Den Bosch and the women meeting HDM.

Euro Hockey League media release



GB EDP Squads Announced for 2018/19



The Great Britain Elite Development Programme (EDP) squads for the 2018/19 season have been selected, with each of the Home Nations well represented.

Launched last season, the GB EDP is part of a strategic objective during the Tokyo 2020 cycle to accelerate the development of future medal winning Olympians.

The programme has already seen great success since its inception, with three members of last year’s Men’s GB EDP squad – Rhys Smith, Jack Waller and Zach Wallace – all making their senior international debuts in the recent Anniversary International in partnership with Toshiba TVs.

Furthermore, several players have had the opportunity to train with the senior teams over the course of the past year while both teams also took part in Six Nations tournaments this summer.

Speaking about the announcement, Heather Williams – the Head of Elite Talent Development at GB Hockey – said: “My congratulations to all the players who have been selected to the 2018/19 squads.

“It’s great to see all Home Nation’s represented in both squads, including new members who have come through their respective U18 National Age Group programmes.

“My thanks to all the coaches, clubs, friends and families, whose support is critical to helping these players balance the demands of elite level hockey and realise their potential.”

While not age categorised, the EDP has been designed for athletes aged between 19-23 who may have the potential to become Olympic medallists. A thorough and comprehensive selection process has recently taken place.

Paul Revington will once again take charge of the Women’s GB EDP while Jon Bleby will be Head Coach of the men’s team, with GB Performance Director Ed Barney looking forward to seeing how the programme will develop further over the next year.

He commented: “The evolution of GB EDP has been a significant strategic focus for us through the first two years of the cycle - I am delighted to see the manner in which it has progressed and the quality of player development that we have seen.

“It’s exciting and inspiring to see some of these players train, perform and compete on a equal footing when they spend time with the senior programme.

“Culturally, the programme has made huge steps and is much more closely aligned to the demands and expectations of delivering medal winning senior international performances.

“Huge credit must go to Heather Williams, Paul Revington and Jon Bleby for the all the work they have invested over the past year. We wish those newly selected players all the best as they strive to become medal winning Olympians of the future.”

Both teams will attend a selection of training camps and tournaments across the coming months.

2018/19 Men’s GB EDP squad
Rohan Bhuhi – Loughborough Students/England
Rhys Bradshaw – Cardiff & Met/Wales
Adam Buckle – Nottingham University/England
Tom Crowson – Loughborough Students/England
Max Denniff – Durham University/England
Jacob Draper – Cardiff & Met/Wales
Cameron Golden – Grove Menzieshill/Scotland
Gareth Griffiths – Beeston & Nottingham Trent University/England
Ronan Harvey Kelly – Loughborough Students/England
Will Hewer – Beeston/England
Evan Kimber – Loughborough Students/England
Callum Mackenzie – Cardiff & Met & Nottingham Trent University/Scotland
Kyle Marshall – Beeston & Nottingham Trent University/England
James Mazarelo (GK) – Bowdon/England
Andrew McConnell – Western Wildcats/Scotland
Aidan McQuade – Grove Menzieshill/Scotland
Tim Nurse – Bath Buccaneers/England
James Oates – Hampstead & Westminster/England
Nick Park – Beeston & Nottingham Trent University/England
Josh Pavis – Nottingham University/England
Oliver Payne (GK) – Durham University/England
Matthew Ramshaw – Loughborough Students/England
Toby Reynolds Cotterill (GK) – Hampstead & Westminster/England
Stuart Rushmere – Bath Buccaneers/England
Tom Russell – Brooklands MU & Liverpool John Moores University/England
Duncan Scott – Exeter University/England
Tom Sorsby – Surbiton/England
Jack Turner – Durham University/England
Ross Vides – Durham University/England
Ioan Wall – Cardiff & Met & Swansea University/Wales
Eddie Way – Birmingham University/England
Daniel West – Loughborough Students/England

2018/19 Women’s EDP squad
Beth Bingham – Holcombe/Wales
Nicole Bowen – Exeter University & ISCA/England
Louisa Bray (GK) – Durham University/England
Freya Bull – Birmingham University /England
Esme Burge – Nottingham University/England
Meg Crowson – Cambridge/England
Emily Dark – Dundee Wanderers & University of St Andrews/Scotland
Jennifer Eadie – Clydesdale Western/Scotland
Tess Howard – Durham University/England
Caroline Hulme – Nottingham Trent University & Beeston/Wales
Eloise Laity – Buckingham/Wales
Catherine Ledesma – Birmingham University/England
Alexandra Malzer – Nottingham University/England
Harriet Mitchell – Birmingham University/England
Lizzie Neal – Loughborough University/England
Izzy Petter – Surbiton/England
Miriam Pritchard (GK) – Loughborough University/England
Lottie Ross – Nottingham University & Beeston/England
Katherine Somerville (GK) – Birmingham University/England
Eloise Stenner – Nottingham University & Beeston/England
Laura Swanson – Edinburgh University/Scotland
Charlotte Watson – Dundee Wanderers & Dundee University/Scotland
Alice Wills – Holcombe/England
Lily Wolstenholme – Nottingham University/England
Laura Swanson – Edinburgh University/Scotland
Charlotte Watson – Dundee Wanderers/Scotland
Alice Wills – Holcombe/England
Lily Wolstenholme – Nottingham University/England

Great Britain Hockey media release



Eight Scots selected for EDP

Scottish Hockey is delighted to announce a total of eight Scots selected for the men’s and women’s Great Britain Elite Development Programme (EDP).

Cameron Golden; Callum Mackenzie; Andrew McConnell; and Aidan McQuade have been selected for the men’s programme, and Emily Dark; Jennifer Eadie; Laura Swanson; and Charlotte Watson have been selected for the women’s programme.

The GB EDP has been launched as part of a strategic objective during the Tokyo 2020 cycle with the aim of developing medal winning Olympians of the future, with the selected athletes having shown their potential to achieve that during a comprehensive selection process.

While the GB EDP is not age categorised, it has been designed for players aged between 19-23. A total of 36 players have been selected for the women’s GB EDP and there is a strong Scottish representation.

Golden, Mackenzie, Swanson and Watson have all been EDP players since October 2017 and have represented the programme in a number of matches.

Neil Menzies and Graham Moodie will also continue their roles as Assistant Coaches on the programme.

Scottish Hockey’s Head of Performance Andy Tennant said,

“We are delighted to have eight representatives on the EDP programme in addition to the six players we have in and around the senior GB programme, particularly as we have four new faces breaking into the GB EDP system for the first time.

“Given that three of our girls have voluntarily opted out of the programme due to study, work commitments and playing abroad, I believe it shows that we are producing more and more athletes with the requisite qualities to be considered potential GB players.

“This is testament to both the hard work being done by the players themselves, the clubs supporting them and the outstanding coaches we have working in both our national age group and high performance programmes.”

Women

Emily Dark
Jennifer Eadie
Laura Swanson
Charlotte Watson

Men

Cameron Golden
Callum Mackenzie
Andrew McConnell
Aidan McQuade

Scottish Hockey Union media release



Australian Under-21 Team Named For Trans-Tasman Series

Ben Somerford

Hockey Australia today announces an 18-member Under-21 Australian team for the 2018 Trans-Tasman Series in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, later this year.

The team will play three games on Thursday 29 November, Saturday 1 December and Sunday 2 December against hosts New Zealand.

Former Hockeyroo Katrina Powell will coach the side, supported by Phil Burrows and Camilla Winch.

The tour is an opportunity to help develop the talent pathway in Australia and comes following a similar Development Tour for Australia’s Under-23s in China in early November.

The selectors have named the team following the Under-21 Australian Championships in Sydney in July.

Among the team is five members of the side currently competing at the 2018 Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires; Amy Lawton, Morgan Mathison, Courtney Schonell, Jolie Sertorio and Maddi Smith.

The team is due to fly out for New Zealand on Monday 26 November.

Under-21 Australian team for Trans-Tasman Series:
Athlete (Home State)
Sienna Archer (WA)
Alice Arnott (NSW)
Hannah Astbury (QLD)
Morgan Blamey (NSW)
Olivia Colasurdo (VIC)
Talei Forrest (ACT)
Andrea Gillard (NSW)
Rebecca Greiner (QLD)
Rachel Guy (VIC)
Carly James (VIC)
Amy Lawton (VIC)
Morgan Mathison (QLD)
Courtney Schonell (NSW)
Jolie Sertorio (WA)
Hattie Shand (SA)
Maddi Smith (NSW)
Michaela Spano (SA)
Abigail Wilson (NSW)

Hockey Australia media release



Masters Challenge Representative Teams Named

Ben Somerford



The representative teams for the 2019 Trans-Tasman Masters Challenge on the Gold Coast have been named based on performances at the 2018 Men’s and Women’s Masters Australian Championships completed this weekend in Bunbury and Lismore.

Last week the teams for the Men’s 35s, 40s and 45s were named with the latest announcement including teams from the Men’s Over-50s through to the 75s.

On the Women’s side, the announcement includes sides from the Over-35s through to the 65s.

The 2019 Trans-Tasman Masters Hockey Challenge will be played on the Gold Coast from 30 April - 4 May 2019.

Matches will be played at both the Gold Coast Hockey Centre and the Nikki Hudson Centre in Runaway Bay.

Men's Masters Australian Teams:

Over 50s
Coach: Michael O'Brien
Manager: Paula Dick

Captain: Alan Dick WA
Vice Captain: Ashley Grummitt Vic
Vice Captain: Gordon Brown Qld

Ged Aitchison Qld
Philip Barrett Vic
Robert Behets WA
Chris Clark NSW
Peter Connolly WA
Mark Ellis NSW
Shane Gesch Qld
Dean Lomax WAC
Craig McBride Vic
Leon Phillips ACT
Damian Smith Tas
Michael Warren Qld
Dean Wightman Qld

Shadows
Leon Achilles Qld
Sean Read Qld
Darran Wilson WA
Darryn Marjoram NSW
Danny Lee Vic
Wayne Porter WAC
Mark Greaves NSW
Peter Bewick WA
Chris Pittaway Qld
Chris Lucas ACT
Scott McDonald WA
Matthew Needham WA
Brian Paxton Vic
Rowan Bridley Tas
Dale Neaves NSW
Stuart Darby Qld

Over 55s
Coach: Cam Fairbrother
Manager: Sue Hollier

Captain: Phil Frost Vic
Vice Captain: Allan Kidd WAC

Amauri Amat NSW
Robert Barratt Qld
Andre Cabral NSW
David Collier NSW
Michael Collins NSW
Alan Ferguson Qld
Christopher Fenton Qld
Peter Gaggin Tas
Michael Hallam WA
Michael Russ NSW
Brian Saxby WA
Paul Scicluna WA
Phillip Shaw Qld
Andrew Small Qld

Shadows
Bruce Buchanan Qld
Kevin Rule NSW
Stephen Hood ACT
Paul Marquardt Qld
Peter Outtrim NSW
Kevin Sherman NSW
Peter Storer SA
Michael Irby NSW
Phillip Price NSW
Jeremy Walsh WA
Colin Trinder NSW

Over 60s
Coach: Rob Lawson
Manager: Carolyn Campbell

Captain: Paul Murray WAC
Vice Captain: David Campbell NSW

Neil Chaseling Qld
Martin Ferrari WA
Ian Ferreira Vic
Clive Harrison NSW
Colin Howell WA
Warren Jenkins NSW
Lyle Kenny WA
Peter Mann Qld
Graham Miller WA
Craig Paton Vic
Robert Redding NSW
Geoff Robinson WA
Norman Same Vic
Don Trewin NSW

Shadows
Noel Morrison WA
Ian Hoddinott Qld
Paul Spencer NSW
Richard Kermonde Vic
Stephen Sawyers Qld
Paul Leadbetter NSW
Jeff Rendell Qld
Mark Finch NSW

65s
Coach: Mark Ford
Manager: Robert Thompson

Captain: Bruce Snape NSW
Vice Captain: Greg Richards Qld

Peter Byrne Vic
Russel Clucas NSW
Dennis Cranston NSW
Noel French NSW
Geoffrey Lewis Vic
Dennis Martin Vic
John McDonald NSW
Rob Meagher Vic
Rob Milne Qld
Allen Schasser Qld
Peter Shepherd ACT
David Spiden Vic
Andrew Terrey NSW
Neil Waywood WAC

Shadows:
Peter Fogels WA
Kevin Redden Vic
John O'Donohue Qld
David Prior NSW
Rick McConnell NSW
Eddie Bartnik WA
Stan Hart NSW

70s
Coach: Ric Roberts
Captain: Len Blyth WA
Vice Captain: Winson Inkster

Peter Andrews WA
William Campbell
Ashley Challenor WA
Neil Coster Vic
Eric Davies SA
Anton Dekens Qld
Rodney Dyson SA
John Hamilton Vic
Gerry Knights NSW
Ian Macdonald SA
Robert McNeil SA
Angelo Strano WAC
Doug Truman NSW
Heath Tyrell WA
Jeff Wait SA
Simon Williams WA

Shadows:
Laurie Robinson Qld
Allan Harris WAC
Harry Fernandez  NSW
Alan Mass
David Edwards NSW
Marvin Heaston SA

75s
Coach: TBC
Manager: TBC

Jim Banks WA
John Burt Vic
Tony Cohan NSW
Terry Daly NSW
Barry Eager Vic
Julian Gardner WAC
Rob Meagher Vic
Richard Osborne WAC
Van Richards-Smith Qld
Arthur Rowe Qld
David Sinclair Vic
Ron Todero Vic
Ronald Venables WA
Errol Weston Qld
Colin Whittaker NSW
Ian Wright Vic

Umpires:

Australian Masters are pleased to announce the following umpires have been selected as Australian Umpires for the 2019 Trans Tasman series:
Robert Bullock (QLD)
David Coles (NSW)
Robert Sutton (NSW)
Scott Orth (QLD)
David Ross (NSW)
Simon Thresher (NSW)
Peter Whight (VIC)

Women's Masters Australian Teams:

Over 35 Team
Rosie Ballard VIC *
Shannon Donald QLD*
Rebecca Anderson SA
Rowena Anderson QLD
Sharni Barton ACT
Belinda Cameron QLD
Jessica Chad QLD
Renee Dunstan NSW
Karena Gilroy NSW
Kelly Ince QLD
Kylie O’Donohue QLD
Amanda Paech QLD
Kim Reibel QLD
Sarah Walton QLD
Jacinta Wells SA
Julia Wilson NSW

Shadows
Alison Bray QLD
Fiona Clark NSW
Rachel Davis NSW
Sarah Gray SA
Kylie Pink QLD
Prudence Walker NSW

Over 40 Team
Jill Hay NSW*
Christine Johnstone VIC*
Kim Addison ACT
Lisa Blake VIC
Kristie Greville NSW
Georgina Gunner NSW
Reita Holmes ACT
Amanda Meech NSW
Tamsin Nelson VIC
Jodi Nield WA
Belinda Page VIC
Helen Rackham ACT
Kim Trezise VIC
Deborah West SA
Natalie Williams QLD
Lucy Withers SA

Shadows
Kylie Blackmore QLD
Katrina Brown NSW
Catherine Diamond NSW
Debbie Dolan QLD
Serene Peiti NSW
Georgina Sayer VIC
Jodi Webb NSW

Over 45 Team
Anita Scott WA *
Sharon Williams NSW *
Julia Ashmore VIC
Amanda Cruickshank QLD
Denise Gersbach NSW
Tracey Makings NSW
Sue Marcussen QLD
Melissa Mendham NSW
Tania Parker NSW
Janet Peters QLD
Janelle Pitman NSW
Narelle Richardson VIC
Kyme Rowe VIC
Trina Tromp NSW
Katy Vipond WA
Alison Wilson NSW

Shadows
Letitia Bolton NSW
Tammy Hansford VIC
Nicole Ilich WA
Caroline Jones QLD
Catherine Pfingst QLD
Tina Walker NSW

Over 50 Team
Julie Ashton-Lucy QLD *
Megan Boyd VIC *
Carolyn Beresford NSW
Michelle Bisson NSW
Sandra Black ACT
Tracy Bradford NSW
Christine Cannon NSW
Jenny Feltham ACT
Annie Ferguson ACT
Robyn Himbeck WA
Michelle Kennedy NSW
Wendy Pearce QLD
Kelli Reilly WA
Josephine Springthorpe NSW
Julie Waddell WA
Helen Walls Qld

Shadows
Michelle Breytenbach NSW
Lyn Collett ACT
Marie Fulbert- Hadet WA
Vicki McAllister WA
Natalie Naumann QLD
Joanna Symes QLD

Over 55 Team
Kerrie Nealon NSW *
Cyndy Slade NSW *
Judy Bailiff WA
Katrina Bayldon QLD
Gail Blackwell QLD
Jo-Anne Bowman QLD
Peri Buckley SA
Pippa Button WA
Joanne Crosland NSW
Marie Fulbert-Hadet WA
Karen Iwanuscha QLD
Terri Read QLD
Ruth Ryan VIC
Jan Saul QLD
Gabrielle Whelan NSW
Ingrid Woods QLD

Shadows
Amanda Beukes NSW
Angie Carpini NSW
Susan Elizabeth Clark WA
Angela Dean NSW
Cathryn Forbes QLD
Lurline Froude QLD
Donna Parsons NSW
Helen Sharpe QLD

Over 60 Team
Lyn Hill QLD *
Noreen Walton QLD *
Sharon Anderson QLD
Sue Barling VIC
Leonie Barrett VIC
Deborah Burchard QLD
Diane Fraser QLD
Kirsty McIntosh NSW
Susan Mott QLD
Barbara Muldoon NSW
Myra Reilly QLD
Karen Russ VIC
Jane Slater SA
Susan Thomas NSW
Lynne Trustum SA
Megan Ward QLD

Shadows
Sue Bessell NSW
Belle Davis QLD
Lyn Dockrill NSW
Alison Fleming WA
Annie Hudson QLD
Jen Kiel SA
Fleur Paton VIC
Deidre Rasmussen QLD
Cheryl Rutherford NSW

Over 65 Team
Sue Briggs NSW *
Janese McDougall WA *
Gail Anderson WA
Carolyn Ayres VIC
Pattie Davis WA
Janet Driver VIC
Robin Gorton NSW
Jennifer Grey NSW
Janis Hutton NSW
Maureen Massey NSW
Margaret McIlwraith SA
Patricia McMillan ACT
Janette Richards QLD
Barbara Ryan NSW
Kaylene Toovey QLD
Kerrie Wood NSW

Shadows
Jane Alcorn VIC
Karen Allan WA
Jan Galloway QLD
Joan Hart NSW
Helen Lansdown NSW
Mary Lofthouse VIC
Catherine McFarlane WA
Gloria McPherson NSW
Kathy Worth QLD

Hockey Australia media release



England Masters celebrated at Anniversary International



Over 200 England Masters players and team officials enjoyed an evening at the Toshiba TVs Anniversary International last Wednesday.

They were the guests of England Hockey to celebrate their success in the Masters World Cup tournaments that were held in Spain during the summer.

England have sixteen squads from Over 35s through to Mens Over 75s and in all they secured eight gold medals, four silver medals and three bronze medals in their respective competitions, easily the best haul by any country.

The Gold medals were shared by Women’s and Men’s squads. The Women’s Over 35, 55s, 60s and 65s were victorious as were the Men’s Over 40s, 55s, 65s and 70s. Silver medals were won by the Women’s Over 45s and Men’s Over 35s, 60s, 75s. Bronze medals were won by Women’s Over 40s and 50s and Men’s Over 45s.



The evening started with a drinks reception at the Velodrome with England Hockey CEO Sally Munday addressing those present and offering her congratulations to the players and thanks to the team personnel for their support of the teams.

Guests then transferred to the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre to watch the Great Britain men take on Belgium, including a half time congratulations from pitchside presenter Michael Kurn.

For some of those present it was also a chance to catch up with the 1988 Great Britain squad members with whom many had played in either representative or club hockey in the past. It was a wonderful evening of celebration of everything hockey.

England Hockey Board Media release



Saints close in on men's hockey title

by Helge Schütz


Tristan Fallis of DTS in action against Ivan Semedo of Saints

SAINTS moved to within touching distance of the Namibian Men's Premier League title after beating Windhoek Old Boys and DTS in Bank Windhoek Field Hockey matches over the weekend.

On Friday night they recorded their second victory against the defending champions Old Boys this season with a thrilling 6-4 win, while on Saturday they were made to work hard before beating DTS 2-1.

The two victories kept Saints' unbeaten record in tact and with only one match remaining, they now just need a draw to make sure of winning the title.

On Friday, they started off with a bang against Old Boys, going 2-0 ahead after only three minutes. Cody van der Merwe opened the scoring from a short corner, while Nico Neethling soon made it 2-0 with a fine back stick shot.

Old Boys, however, struck back when they won a short corner and although it was saved, Riaan Kruger pounced to put the loose ball into the net.

With Liam Hermanus and Nico Neethling causing havoc with their incisive attacks, more chances came Saints' way and Hermanus made it 3-1 when he latched onto a Neethling pass midway through the second chukka.

In a frenetic passage of play, Old Boys immediately struck back when Kruger scored his second goal with a great back stick shot, but Saints soon went 4-2 ahead when Fagan Hansen's shot was cleared off the line and Hermanus pounced to put the loose ball into the net.

Saints went 5-2 ahead in the second half when Neethling scored his second goal from a counter-attack, but Old Boys showed great resolve to reduce the deficit to 5-4 after a penalty by Siabonga Martyins and a fine counter-attacking goal by Dylan Finch.

In the final chukka Saints piled on the attacks, but could not get past Old Boys goalie Jacobus Coetzee who brought off some spectacular saves.

Saints' pressure, however, finally told when they won a penalty in the last minute and Hermanus completed his hat-trick from the spot to make the final score 6-4.

On Saturday, Saints had to overcome stiff resistance from DTS before winning their match 2-1.

Damien Schutz opened Saints account when he scored from a Cody van der Merwe pass, while Liam Hermanus also found the net, but his goal was disallowed for an infringement.

DTS, however, drew level JP Britz rounded off a fine counter-attack in the second chukka.

Saints enjoyed the territorial advantage, but DTS defended well with Lenard Fick at the forefront, while their goalie Liam Janse van Rensburg also brought off some fine saves.

Saints' pressure finally told when Hermanus stabbed in a loose ball midway through the second half to clinch the victory.

On Saturday, Old Boys made sure that they remain in contention for the title when they thrashed Nust 11-1, with Siabonga Martins and Dylan Finch both scoring hat-tricks.

With one round of matches now remaining, Saints lead the log on 24 points, followed by WOB on 20, while DTS trail in third position on eight points.

The women's league, meanwhile, is heading for an exciting climax with WOB, Angels and Saints all still in the running to win the title.

On Friday night, WOB and Angels played to a 1-1 draw in a hard fought encounter. Both goals came in the first chukka, with Melissa Gillies putting Angels ahead with a field goal, while Annelien Davin replied for WOB three minutes later.

In a dour battle, neither side could find the net after that and they had to settle for a draw.

In other matches over the weekend, Angels were also held to a 1-1 draw by DTS, although they managed to beat Wanderers 3-2.

Old Boys now lead the log on 11 points, but Angels and Saints are both just one point behind, while Saints also have two matches in hand on the leaders.

The Namibian



Wananchi continue to dominate Ugandan hockey

By Kasozi Balikuddembe

The club won both the Men and Women titles in a strong field of players that lit up the two day competition.

Wananchi’s perpetual dorminance tales in Ugandan hockey prevailed in this year’s edition of the UHA Indepedence Gala that ended Sunday at the National Hockey Stadium, Lugoogo.

The club won both the Men and Women titles in a strong field of players that lit up the two day competition.

Besides the main league, the gals is another major contest off the Uganda Hockey Association’s calendar throughout the year. Still it offers an extra opportunity with a platform for youngsters on the local scene.

Christopher Angulu’s third minute effort was enough to give Wananchi a slim 1-0 win over Weatherhead in the men’s category.

The two giants continue to remain the main challengers in local events maintaining a two horse race in the league as well. For Weatherhead’s Timothy Ntumba  he was personally consoled as his seven goals earned him top scorer.

Meanwhile Doreen Mbabazi’s  five goals not only guided Wananchi to the Women’s final but also earned her female topscorer in the competition. However Doreen Asiimwe’s last penalty take was the tie breaker in the final against a spirited Rhino. The game had gone goaless in normal time.

It remains to be seen whether Wananchi will wrap up the season with doubles as they remain leaders in both the Men and Women standings in the National Hockey League.

UHA Independence Gala

Final

Men

Wananchi 1 Weatherhead 0

Women

Wananchi 0 Rhino 0 (Wanachi win on penalties)

MVP

Men

Emmanuel Baguma (Wananchi

Women

Vero Atima (Rhino)

Top scorer

Women – Mbabazi Doreen – 5 goals (Wananchi )
Men – Ntumba Timothy – 7 goals (Weatherhead)

Best Goalie

Women – Sylvia Giramia (Wananchi )
Men – Joseph Ochan (Wananchi)

New Vision



Cal field hockey surrenders big lead against No. 8 Boston College, falls twice over weekend

By Tim Sun


Michael Wan/File

Always a bridesmaid, never a bride — this has been the story of the season for the Cal field hockey team, as many games seem to be just out of reach for the Bears.

This weekend in New York was no different as Cal fell to No. 8 Boston College, 4-3, in an overtime heartbreaker, followed by a loss to No. 13 Syracuse, 4-2.

Saturday’s matchup against the Eagles (8-4) started off as most Cal games do: the first half was a defensive battle, as strong backfield play from both sides resulted in just four total shot attempts in the first 20 minutes of action.

In the 28th minute, though, Cal broke through. Freshman backfielder Brynn Zorilla checked back into the game and immediately found senior forward Melina Moore, who put the ball in the back of the net to give the Bears the early lead.

The goal raised Moore’s career total to 26, putting her tied with head coach Shellie Onstead for 10th all-time scorer in program history.

Coming out of the locker room with a rare halftime lead, Cal got into a rhythm. Sophomore forward Megan Rodgers scored twice within five minutes, giving the Bears a commanding 3-0 advantage. Rodgers’ two goals also put her at 26 on her career to tie Moore and Onstead in Cal’s record books.

Down 3-0 at the 42-minute mark, the Eagles took a timeout, snapped back into it and began an offensive onslaught. In the span of eight minutes, the Eagles scored three goals to tie the game and send it to overtime.

Onstead took a timeout and made a substitution at goalie after the second goal, but it didn’t matter, as Boston College came roaring back with a vengeance, picking up two green cards during their impassioned resurgence.

In overtime, Rodgers recorded a big shot on goal, but it was saved, and the Eagles broke through after five minutes to complete the unexpected comeback. And while the Bears have experienced tough losses, this one will be particularly hard to swallow.

Cal led 3-0 with 25 minutes left against the No. 8 team in the country but couldn’t hold up defensively to close it out, denying the Bears the marquee win that has evaded them all season long.

On Sunday against Syracuse, the script was flipped, as Cal came back from a 2-0 deficit early in the second half to tie the game with 20 minutes left. Moore and Rodgers each scored again, but the Orange regained the advantage and scored two more times to seal the victory.

The road trip wraps up Cal’s nonconference schedule — a grueling series of games throughout the country against some of the top teams. The Bears faced off with seven teams currently ranked in the top 13 and went 0-7 in these contests.

Outside of blowout losses early in the season to No. 1 North Carolina and No. 2 Maryland, the narrative has been similar. Cal has had opportunities to win but could not finish down the stretch.

The Bears have six conference games left on the schedule, with two against No. 21 Stanford, during which Cal will have the chance to finally beat a ranked team and no longer be just the jealous bridesmaid.

The Daily Californian

Fieldhockey.com uses cookies to assist with navigating between pages. Please leave the site if you disagree with this policy.
Copyright remains with the credited source or author