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All the news for Wednesday 1 May 2019

2019 FIH Pro League (Women) - 1 May

GER v USA (RR)     2 - 1

Unofficial Pool Standings

The FIH inexplicably and confusingly use a system not used in any other sports League in the World, of making the Percentage more important than Points until the end of the League when they will revert to Points only. Fieldhockey.com prefers to use the conventional Points and so the Unofficial Pool Standings on this site are reflected in this manner.

FIH Match Centre

USA defeated as Germany women close in on top four



Germany’s women made it three wins from their last four FIH Pro League matches by defeating a resilient USA on Tuesday evening (30 April), edging closer to that all-important top four thanks to a 2-1 triumph on home soil at Mönchengladbach’s Hockeypark.


A final quarter penalty stroke from Germany's Nike Lorenz settled the contest, with Taylor West of USA cancelling out an early strike from Lena Micheel. Germany currently occupy fifth position having claimed 58.33 percent of the points available to them, with fourth placed Australia - who face a tough away match against second-placed Argentina this weekend - one place ahead in fourth with 62.96 percent. Defeat for USA leaves them sitting at the foot of the table with 13.33 percent.

Germany (FIH World Ranking: 5) came into the contest with the USA (WR:12) looking for a second successive win, aiming to add to their 4-1 victory over China - a match in which Lorenz scored twice - at the weekend. However, they faced USA team that had gained a measure of confidence after a commendable performance in London, holding Olympic champions Great Britain to a 1-1 draw before missing out on the bonus point by losing the shoot-out.

While Die Danas were the superior side in the first two quarters, they certainly did not have it all their own way. Germany’s Lena Micheel scored the only goal of the half when she squeezed the ball between the legs of USA shot-stopper Kelsey Bing in the 11th minute, with the Americans frustrating the hosts for long periods before almost equalising just seconds before the interval when Danielle Grega’s rasping shot was saved wonderfully by the diving Nathalie Kubalski, who tipped the shot onto the crossbar.

Both sides had chances to score in the third quarter, but the USA played arguably their best hockey of the match in this period and snatched a leveller on the stroke of quarter-time. The goal came from a penalty corner, with Kubalski blocking two efforts but could do little about the third as Taylor West flicked into the roof of Germany’s net from close range.

West was in the thick of the action early in the fourth quarter, blocking two penalty corner efforts before goalkeeper Bing kept out another with an athletic save as the home favourites turned the screw. That pressure eventually told when a goal-bound strike hit the body of Anna Dessoye, resulting in a penalty stroke that was confidently converted by Nike Lorenz, sending Bing the wrong way to find the bottom right corner. The Americans rallied in the latter stages, but Germany showed no sign of panic, doing exactly what was required in order to see out the win.

“I’m really happy that we could win this game in the end”, said Player of the Match Lena Micheel, before reflecting on scoring the game's opening goal. "I think it was an important goal because it was at the beginning of the match and it was really good for us to have the lead. We said before the game that we wanted to get our basics done, and we knew that it was going to be a hard fight. It was as we expected, and we are lucky to end this home series [in Mönchengladbach] with a last win.”

The FIH Pro League continues on Friday (3 May) and Saturday (4 May) with matches in England and Argentina. Great Britain’s women welcome China to London’s Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre on Friday before GB men take on Spain’s Red Sticks on Saturday at the same venue. Saturday’s action then switches from London to Buenos Aires, as Argentina’s women and men clash with the national teams of Australia.

FIH Pro League

30 April - Mönchengladbach, Germany

Result: Women’s Match 40
Germany 2, USA 1
Player of the Match: Lena Micheel (GER)
Umpires: Laurine Delforge (BEL), Irene Presenqui (ARG) & Ivona Makar (CRO)

#FIHProLeague

Official FIH Pro League Site

USWNT Falls Heartbreakingly Short to Germany in FIH Pro League


Image by FIH/Getty Images

MÖNCHENGLADBACH, Germany – Following their match with No. 2 Great Britain this past weekend, the No. 12 U.S. Women's National Team continued their FIH Pro League road trip through Europe against No. 5 Germany at the HockeyPark in Mönchengladbach. The last time the two sides faced each other was nearly two years ago in the title game of the 2017 FIH Hockey World League Semifinals. Today’s contest held the same intensity and almost mimicked the game progress as Germany got on the scoreboard first, but consistent pressure saw USA equalize at the end of the third. A penalty stroke goal in the final quarter by Die Danas turned out to be the game-decider as USA fell 2-1.

Off the starting whistle, Germany quickly took possession into their attacking end, got in the circle and forced USA goalkeeper Kelsey Bing (Houston, Texas) to make a clear over the end line. In the 4th minute, Anne Schröder produced Germany’s first shot of the game off a backhand that was saved by Bing. This was followed by USA working it into their circle and forcing Germany’s goalkeeper Nathalie Kubalski off the line to make a clear. Germany held control for the remainder of the period and in the 10th minute, following a series of circle entries, the hosts capitalized on a ball that fell to Lena Micheel at the stroke mark. With a 1-0 lead, Germany kept the attacking pressure on as USA struggled to keep possession before the quarter closed.

In the second quarter, Germany continued the control that they held early in the match. The first couple of minutes saw Die Danas enter their circle four times but they were met by a solid USA defense. A close chance for Germany to extend their lead came when Elisa Gräve had room for a backhand shot but was met by a USA stick that deflected the ball high. Caitlin Van Sickle (Wilmington, Del.) was unable to settle the high ball as it hit her foot, giving Germany a penalty corner but to no avail. As time wound down USA stepped up their attacking presence and worked it ahead. With seconds left, Kathleen Sharkey (Moosic, Pa.) bumped a pass forward to Danielle Grega (Kingston, Pa.) whose one-time hit was saved and sent over the goal by Kubalski. This kept Die Danas ahead 1-0 at halftime.

Quarter three had more equal possession between both sides as they shared circle entries at the beginning. The first real threat came for Germany 12 minutes in when Hannah Gablac was found in a 1v1 situation with Ali Froede (Burke, Va.) at the top of the circle but recovering USA teammates helped elevate the situation. Moments later Schröder eliminated three USA defenders, dumped it into the circle but Gablac’s touch went wide. Two minutes following Die Danas earned a penalty corner after Alyssa Manley (Lititz, Pa.) was not 5 yards from the play but as the attempt went wide USA immediately countered and responded with a penalty corner of their own. In the 45th minute, Sharkey’s initial straight shot and Linnea Gonzales (Bel Air, Md.) second chance were both saved but Taylor West (Princess Anne, Md.) finished high into the left corner of the net to tie it at 1-1.

Germany started the fourth quarter on the front foot, earning themselves three consecutive penalty corners in a row. The first two were identical plays where Nike Lorenz’s drag attempt went into USA flyer West’s foot or legs. The third chance was again a drag by Lorenz but this time she went high and Bing was there to make the glove save. On the attacking end, USA continued to go forward when they could but were unsuccessful in breaking through Germany’s defense only registering two circle entries in the quarter. Die Danas were persistent in the final ten minutes, constantly threading balls ahead into open spaces while able to get multiple consecutive circle penetrations. As Germany kept testing USA’s defense a lapse came for the red, white and blue when a scramble of shots in front of the goal in the 52nd minute led to a penalty stroke called against as the ball went off Anna Dessoye’s (Mountaintop, Pa.) body in the goalmouth. Lorenz converted to give Germany a 2-1 lead. The hosts dominant possession maintained in the final minutes but not before two final attempts came for USA through a backhand cross by Sharkey that was just missed by Gonzales and a solo run by Grega was halted.

Following the match, Germany’s Micheel was named Player of the Match.

The U.S. Women’s National Team returns to the United States where they will host three games in nine days at Spooky Nook Sports in Lancaster, Pa. USA will play No. 3 Australia on Friday, May 10, No. 4 Argentina on Sunday, May 12 and No. 10 China on Saturday, May 18.

 #FIHProLeague

USFHA media release

Three Changes For Hockeyroos Team For Argentina & USA Games

Ben Somerford



Hockey Australia today confirms the Hockeyroos will take an 18-member team for the upcoming FIH Pro League matches against Argentina and USA.

The Hockeyroos flew directly from Auckland to Buenos Aires on Friday following Thursday’s 5-1 win over New Zealand.

Jodie Kenny, Georgina Morgan and Amy Lawton, who were named in the initial 21-member team for the Pacific leg, will return to Australia as previously planned.

Brooke Peris is due to earn her 150th cap for the Hockeyroos against Argentina.

World number three Australia takes on world number four Argentina in Buenos Aires on Sunday 5 May from 5am AEST, before playing world number 12 USA in Lancaster on Saturday 11 May from 9:30am AEST.

Hockeyroos coach Paul Gaudoin said: "We're looking forward to it. We're going to have to work hard to make sure we get our rest and recovery given the travel.

"We've got four or five days in between matches to get prepared. Argentina is a bit different and we expect a passionate crowd. To travel that far to the USA and play a one-off match is a real challenge for us. We're looking to do well."

The Hockeyroos are currently fourth in the FIH Pro League standings.

The matches will be televised live by Kayo Sports and on FOX SPORTS 505. Follow @Hockeyroos on Twitter for live match updates.

Sunday 5 May 2019 – CeNARD, Buenos Aires
Argentina v Hockeyroos – 5am AEST
Argentina v Kookaburras – 7:30am AEST

Hockeyroos 18-member team:
Athlete (Hometown, State)
Kristina Bates (Port Melbourne, VIC)
Edwina Bone (Orange, NSW) *Plays for ACT
Lily Brazel (Sydney, NSW) *Plays for VIC
Emily Chalker (Crookwell, NSW)
Jane Claxton (Adelaide, SA)
Kalindi Commerford (Ulladulla, NSW) *Plays for ACT
Madison Fitzpatrick (Cabarita Beach, NSW) *Plays for QLD
Savannah Fitzpatrick (Cabarita Beach, NSW) *Plays for QLD
Kate Jenner (Tamworth, NSW)
Rachael Lynch (Warrandyte, VIC)
Ambrosia Malone (Burleigh, QLD)
Kaitlin Nobbs (Newington, NSW)
Brooke Peris (Darwin, NT)
Michaela Spano (Adelaide, SA)
Grace Stewart (Gerringong, NSW)
Sophie Taylor (Melbourne, VIC)
Ashlee Wells (Morwell, VIC)
Georgia Wilson (Mahogany Creek, WA)

Hockey Australia media release

FIH Men's Series Finals Kuala Lumpur 2019
Kuala Lumpur (MAS)

Upcoming fixtures (GMT +8)

17:50     CAN v CHN (Cross-over)
20:05     MAS v WAL (Cross-over)

2 May 2019 17:50     BLR v BRA (7 / 8
2 May 2019 20:05     CAN/CHN v MAS/WAL (5 / 6)

Live streaming and full game replay on https://fih.live (Geo blocked if there is TV coverage)

FIH Match Centre

Malaysian hockey shame: Pampered national players to be blamed, not MHC officials

By Jugjet Singh


THE pampered national players, not MHC officials, should be blamed for bringing shame to Malaysian hockey. (NSTP/ROSELA ISMAIL)

AS angry fans call for heads to roll in Malaysian hockey following Monday’s humiliating 4-2 loss to Italy, there is a lot of finger pointing going on.

The “pizza boys”, playing in the third tier of the European championships, are the lowest ranked team in the FIH Series Finals at Bukit Jalil. It was thought that Malaysia could easily “makan” them.

But the Italians, despite having little training before coming to Kuala Lumpur, inflicted on the national team their worst ever embarrassment.

Clearly, it is the pampered bunch of national players who should be held accountable for the shame and disgrace that they have caused to Malaysia.

Do not blame the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) officials, do not accuse them of lack of efforts.

The MHC have given all kinds of help and incentives to the players, massive support that even draws envy from players of other countries.

But what do the MHC get in return? Performances and results that are totally unacceptable.

It’s exasperating when the players let the country down, time and again. No commitment, no teamwork, no clue on strategies, no attack, and no defence.

Since these players are no longer willing to work hard for the country, they should give up their places for others, and not stay on because they want to take the financial incentives,

Both of Malaysia’s goalkeepers lacked confidence and were pathetic in the FIH Series Finals. Razie Rahim and his defenders looked flimsy while the midfielders, led by Fitri Saari, were only good at runing with the ball instead of making the ball “run”.

In attack, only Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin looked alive, while younger legs like Akhimullah Anuar Essok are a total washout.

They don’t deserve to be called Speedy Tigers, they are just pussycats that will struggle against even mediocre teams.

On Sunday, Malaysia were already giving signs that they were not in good shape after struggling to a 4-4 draw against China.

A day later, Italy, ranked World No 32, made fools of World No 13 Malaysia in their backyard on Monday.

MHC president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal had said many times that if Malaysia fail to qualify for the Olympics, he will quit. And deputy president Datuk Dr S. Shamala had also made the same stand.

But why should the officials quit? It’s the 18 players in the national team who must resign.

These players must pack their bags and leave the national team with their heads down if they lose to Wales today.

Malaysia coach Roelant Oltmans cut a forlorn figure when he showed up for the press conference after the loss to Italy.

The Dutchman’s usual confidence and cocky style was missing as he, too, was humbled by the painful episode.

“If anybody had said before the tournament started, that Italy and Austria were going to top their respective pools, it would have been hard to swallow,” he said.

“I never expected this to happen, it's unacceptable. It's shocking.

“But we have 48 hours to make ammends (against Wales). What else can I say?

Say nothing now, Oltmans. But if the players don't perform, be brave to sack them all, and select 18 players from the Junior World Cup training squad and start planning for the final Olympic Qualifier in November.

Malaysia, based on their world ranking, will still qualify for the final round of the Olympic Qualifiers even if they don't make the semi-finals of the FIH Series Finals.

But the issue here is not about qualifying for tournaments, it’s about Malaysia’s pride being harmed by its players.

New Straits Times

Play for King and country

By Jugjet Singh


Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) deputy president, Datuk Dr S. Shamala could not hide her anger and dissapointment after such an embarrassing defeat to Italy on home turf to add insult to injury.

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has only played Wales twice so far, and hope to be third-time lucky when they square off again in the FIH Series Finals at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil tomorrow (Wednesday).

It has to be pointed out that a defeat will end the national side’s campaign in shame and disgrace, while a victory will see them having the opportunity to square off against Austria in the semi-finals.

The embarrassing 4-2 defeat at the hands of Italy was so humiliating that not only droves of loyal fans turned nasty and sarcastic on social media out of sheer disappointment, but a normally cool and composed Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) deputy president as well.

Datuk Dr S. Shamala is always a pillar of support whenever the men and women fail in a tournament, but she too let her anger and disappointment loose after such a historic defeat.

Before this ‘majestic’ performance, Malaysia’s lowest ebb was losing 4-2 to 29th ranked Trinidad and Tobago in the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

Her hard-hitting post on social media was: “Seriously have just no justification nor words to express the outcome of today’s (Monday) match against the Italians.

“Really so terribly disappointed and disheartening but since this is not the end of the tournament... Let’s not give up... Even when we feel excruciating pain, disappointment and embarrassment beyond comprehension!”

She summed up by saying: “Wednesday’s (tomorrow) match will really be a day to prove if we (players) have even an ounce of pride left in ourselves and more importantly, for the country and the beloved sport that we play. The only way out of this is to finish in the top-two.”

An invitation was sent, and accepted by our hockey-loving King, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah ibni Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta'in Billah, to attend the final this Saturday (May 4).

The team has already disappointed their fans and officials, let's not let the King down as well, by not showing up for the final.

TOMORROW (Wednesday): Cross-over — China v Canada (6pm, Pitch 1), Malaysia v Wales (8pm, Pitch 1)

New Straits Times

Have faith in boys

By T. Avineshwaran


Full stretch: Malaysia’s Najmi Jazlan (right) and Italy’s Simone Minetto tussle for the ball during their Group B match on Monday. Italy won 4-2. — Bernama

PETALING JAYA: Complacency seems to be the real enemy for the Malaysian hockey team.

Former national player I. Vickneswaran believes that the players have the tendency to undo all their hard work in training by having the wrong mindset in tournaments.

Having known some of the national players through his coaching duties in the Malaysia Hockey League, the Terengganu coach said the national players tend to take things for granted when facing lower ranked teams.

This was evident as the Speedy Tigers were shocked 2-4 by Italy in their final Group B match at the FIH Series Finals on Monday.

The outcome was embarrassing as the Italians are ranked 32 in the world and the core of their players are amateurs.

“Complacency is our biggest enemy. We can have the best preparation, but the players must have the right mindset,” said Vick­neswaran.

“On Monday, our team allowed the Italians to punish us via their counter attacks. Their game was simple but they were clinical in penalty corners.”

Unless a drastic change takes place, Vickneswaran said they could suffer another embarrasment when they face Wales in the crossover match today.

“The goalkeepers were blamed in the Italy match but what were the defenders doing during penalty corners? The keeper made a mistake but the defenders should be there to help,” said Vickneswaran.

“Our boys were not as spirited as Italy. Fortunately, it’s not all over for Malaysia in this tournament and I hope they’ll bounce back.”

Another former national player Nor Saiful Zaini said it was better to lose in the group stages than losing in the elimination round.

Although sad to see the boys losing meekly to the Italians, the Tenaga Nasional coach said he was confident the boys would make it to the final.

“Austria, Italy and Wales showed us they can play hockey. These teams know what they are doing. We have to plan well when facing them,” said Nor Saiful.

“We cannot underestimate these teams. The team must now move on from the Italy defeat and focus on giving 100% in the remaining matches.”

He added that it was not the right time to question the credibility of national coach Roelants Oltmans.

“Let’s give him the time to rectify the team’s frailties. It’s time we change our fortune in the tournament first.”

The Star of Malaysia

Oltmans tells team to redeem pride by beating Wales

KUALA LUMPUR: National coach Roelant Oltmans wants the Malaysian team to redeem their pride with a win against Wales in the FIH Series Finals.

On Monday, Malaysia fell to a shock 2-4 defeat to Italy in a Group B match at the National Hockey Stadium and Oltmans described it as a “dark moment” for Malaysian hockey.

They take on Wales today at 8.05pm in a crossover match for a place in the semi-finals.

“Everything went wrong. That’s the truth, and I’m shocked. I know what the players are capable of and this performance against Italy was way below their level,” said the visibly frustrated Oltmans.

“We have another game today to salvage our pride. We lost to Italy, but the tournament is not over.

“I told the boys that it’s time for them to show their real quality. The way we conceded the goals against Italy were unacceptable.”

The defeat certainly paints a gloomy picture on the future of Ma­ lay­sian hockey, but Oltmans is confident the team would shine again.

Asked whether a 4-4 draw against China affected the players’ morale, Oltmans said: “I’ve discussed it with them. It looks like they did not overcome the disappointment but to me, that’s nonsense.

“We played to win this match but not in a smart way. Hopefully, we’ll have a completely different story against Wales. They are an organised team and can be competitive.”

Italy, who reached the semi-finals as the Group B champions, play the winners of the China-Canada crossover match which is scheduled for 5-50pm today.

Italy coach Roberto Da Gai said: “We played a fantastic match. The boys executed the tactics well, and they were clinical with their chances. Also, our goalkeeper (Francesco Padovani) played well.”

The Star of Malaysia

Manpreet to lead India for the Aussie tour

s2h Team



New Delhi: Experienced midfielder Manpreet Singh will lead India's 18-member Men's team for Australia tour that begins on 10th May 2019 in Perth, Western Australia. The Indian team, under newly-appointed Chief Coach Graham Reid, will be Captained by Manpreet Singh with Surender Kumar as his deputy.

Interstingly, Punjab and Sind Bank's officer Jaskaran Singh is making his international debut. He is son of Raninder Singh Jr., who is a Dronacharya awardee, represented India at the 1984 Olympics.

For the Australia tour, India will try youngsters and test experienced players ahead of the team selection for the much-awaited FIH Men’s Hockey Series Final Bhubaneswar Odisha 2019.

The Indian team will feature PR Sreejesh and Krishan B Pathak guarding the goalpost in the four-match Australia tour while experienced defender and drag-flicker Rupinder Pal Singh has been called-up after nearly eight months since he last played for India at the 18th Asian Games. He will be joined by Surender Kumar, Harmanpreet Singh, Birender Lakra, Gurinder Singh and Kothajit Singh in the backline.

Midfielders Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad and Nilakanta Sharma have been named in the squad along with Jalandhar-born 25-year-old midfielder Jaskaran Singh who has been given an opportunity to make his International debut in Australia. The forward-line will see Akashdeep Singh, who was rested for the season opener in Ipoh, Malaysia, return to the team along with Armaan Qureshi, Mandeep Singh, Sumit Kumar Jr. and Gursahibjit Singh.

Speaking about the importance of the tour ahead of the FIH Men’s Hockey Series Final Bhubaneswar Odisha 2019, Chief Coach Graham Reid said, "This tour will provide me with a great chance to get to know this group of players. It comprises a well-balanced mix, including some younger players, a debutant and a player coming back from long-term injury. To be able to play four matches against a world class opposition including a match against club Western Australia Thundersticks; will be a great opportunity to test our players under pressure. It provides the ideal preparation for FIH Men’s Hockey Series Final Bhubaneswar Odisha 2019 in June."

Squad:

Goalkeepers:
1. Krishan B Pathak
2. PR Sreejesh

Defenders:
3. Rupinder Pal Singh
4. Surender Kumar (Vice-Captain)
5. Harmanpreet Singh
6. Birendra Lakra
7. Gurinder Singh
8. Kothajit Singh

Midfielders
9. Hardik Singh
10. Manpreet Singh (Captain)
11. Jaskaran Singh
12. Vivek Sagar Prasad
13. Nilakanta Sharma

Forwards
14. Mandeep Singh
15. Gursahibjit Singh
16. Akashdeep Singh
17. Sumit Kumar Jr.
18. Armaan Qureshi

Stick2Hockey.com

Rupinder back in the mix for Australia tour


Rupinder. Photo Credit: BiswaranjanRout

Seasoned defender Rupinder Pal Singh was recalled but there was no place still for S.V. Sunil and Ramandeep Singh as Hockey India named the senior men’s side for next week’s Australia tour. India will play four matches — including two against the Australian senior National side — as part of its preparation for the Hockey Series Final.

The return of Rupinder, who last played for India at the 2018 Asian Games, will give India the option of another drag-flicker at penalty corners. Forwards Sunil and Ramandeep, who were left out of the Indian World Cup side, are currently part of the National camp at the SAI here but they were not chosen. Midfielder Jaskaran Singh is set to make his international debut.

The Australia tour, with matches to be played from May 10 to 17, will be newly-appointed chief coach Graham Reid’s first assignment in charge of the team.

“This tour will provide me with a great chance to get to know this group of players,” he said.

“It comprises a well-balanced mix, including some younger players, a debutant and a player coming back from long-term injury.

“To be able to play four matches against world class opposition, including a match against club Western Australia Thundersticks, will be a great opportunity to test our players under pressure.”

The squad: Goalkeepers: Krishan B. Pathak, P.R. Sreejesh; Defenders: Rupinder Pal Singh, Surender Kumar, Harmanpreet Singh, Birendra Lakra, Gurinder Singh, Kothajit Singh; Midfielders: Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh (capt.), Jaskaran Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Nilakanta Sharma; Forwards: Mandeep Singh, Gursahibjit Singh, Akashdeep Singh, Sumit Kumar Jr., and Armaan Qureshi.

The Hindu

Rupinder returns, Jaskaran new face for Australia tour


Rupinder Pal Singh last played for India at the 18th Asian Games in Jakarta last year. File

Dragflicker Rupinder Pal Singh returned to the Indian men’s hockey team, which also features debutant Jaskaran Singh, for the tour of Australia, starting May 10. Rupinder is returning to the squad after a long injury lay-off.

He last played for India at the 18th Asian Games in Jakarta last year. The 18-member squad, announced by Hockey India, will be led by midfielder Manpreet Singh while Surender Kumar has been named as the vice-captain. The tour, marked as a preparation for next month’s Hockey Series Final in Bhubaneswar, will be chief coach Graham Reid’s maiden assignment with the team.
On the Australia tour, India will try out youngsters besides testing experienced players before picking the team for the Hockey Series Final, to be held from June 6 to 15.

The 25-year-old Jalandhar-born Jaskaran will make his debut in the Indian midfield alongside Hardik Singh, Manpreet, Vivek Sagar Prasad and Nilakanta Sharma. “This tour will provide me with a great chance to get to know this group of players. It comprises a well-balanced mix, including some younger players, a debutant and a player coming back from long-term injury,” new chief coach Reid said. “To be able to play four matches against a world-class opposition, including a match against club side Western Australia Thundersticks, will be a great opportunity to test our players under pressure. It provides the ideal preparation for FIH Men’s Hockey Series Final in June.” The tour will feature four matches — two against the Australian national side, one against Australia A and one against Western Australia.

The Tribune

Garreth Ewing appointed Head Coach of the SA Hockey Men


Photo - Sean Burke

The South African Hockey Association have today announced Garreth Ewing as the new head coach of the South African Hockey Men.  Ewing will be tasked with leading South Africa through to the 2022 Hockey World Cup.

Ewing has been a part of the South African set up since 2004 working in various capacities across national levels. He has worn the hat of selector, video analyst, team manager, HP trainer and assistant coach as well as Head Coach of South Africa Under 21.

It was in this Head coach role that Garreth arguably made his biggest splash when he led the South African U21 side to a superb 10th place finish at the Junior World Cup in Lucknow in 2016. He was also in charge of the side that became the first South African U21 side to compete in an IPT Final.

Ewing has also been one of the assistant coaches for the national side since 2014 first with Fabian Gregory before later Mark Hopkins. In his time as, assistant coach Ewing has been with the team at the FIH World League, the Azlan Shah Cup as well as two FIH Hockey World Cups.

The first task on the radar for Ewing will be the FIH Open Series Final in Bhubaneswar, India from the 6-15 June 2019. South Africa have been put in pool B and will take on tough opponents in USA (6 June) and Japan (8 June) before taking on Mexico (10 June) in the final pool game. South Africa will then be up against one from India, Poland, Russia and Uzbekistan in the cross pools. The top 2 finishers at each Hockey Series Final will proceed to the Olympic Qualifying games.

Of course, eyes will also turn quickly to the African Olympic Qualifier in Stellenbosch in August as South Africa will look to defend the crown they won in Egypt in 2017. The South African Hockey Association wishes Garreth the best of luck for the challenge ahead. 

Garreth Ewing, New SA Hockey Head Coach

“Is a great privilege to be appointed as Head Coach of the South African Hockey Men. I am very excited and grateful to have this opportunity to lead the team and help achieve new standards for South African Men’s Hockey.

The challenges we face are significant, both in terms of Olympic qualification and growth towards future tournaments, and Im looking forward to helping the team in its development."

SA Hockey Association media release

PHF Development Squad beat Uzbekistan 2-1

Farhan scores match-winning goal

Azhar Khan

LAHORE   -   Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) Development Squad defeated visiting Uzbekistan hockey team by 2-1 in the second match of the practice tour of Uzbekistan to Pakistan here at the National Hockey Stadium pitch No 2 on Tuesday.

Uzbekistan were off to flying start as they displayed good moves and better hockey skills and techniques to put PHF Development Squad under pressure and take 1-0 lead in the first quarter. Ilhomjon Sultanov was the player, who opened the account of Uzbekistan team.

After that, PHF Development Squad fought back well and not only proved a rock solid wall for Uzbek attack but also launched a series of attacks on Uzbekistan’s goal and also succeeded in converting a beautiful equalizer through Zaheer, who fired in a fabulous goal in the 43rd minute on the pass of young sensation and emerging hockey player Khubaib Ahmad.

After that both the sides were struggling to take a lead and it were PHF Development Squad players, who managed to make beautiful moves and finally, Farhan Yousaf succeeded in converting the match-winning goal in the 54th minute to help PHF Development Squad win the match by 2-1.

Pakistani Community President in Uzbekistan Muhammad Ibrahim graced the occasion as chief guest. Other notables present on the occasion were Punjab Hockey Association (PHA) Secretary Col (r) Asif Naaz Khokhar, Zahid Ali of AHF, PHF Admin Director Maj (r) Manj, PHA Associate Secretary Rai Usman Akbar, ex-Olympian Qasim Khan, M Ayub, umpire manager Dilawar Bhatti and hockey lovers.

The next match of the scheduled series will be played between Uzbekistan hockey team and Academies on May 2 at National Hockey Stadium pitch No 2 at 7:30 pm.

The Nation

Big tests for Scotland women as Canada and France come to Glasgow



Scotland will play matches against Canada and France women with eight big matches of international hockey being contested at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre.

Scotland women will play Canada in a five-match capped series at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre on 15-21 May. 

Scotland’s Performance Squad will play France over the same week at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre with non-capped matches on Thursday 16 May; Sunday 19 May before the Scotland v Canada matches, and on Friday 17 May. 

Both Scotland sides are full of experience and talent and the matches will see the whole available Scotland women’s national squad take to the pitch to compete across eight games in Glasgow, against quality opposition.

With Women’s EuroHockey Championship II in Glasgow on the horizon, and the Hockey Series Finals in Dublin in the nearer future, it’s a huge year for Scotland women. These matches are an important part of preparation for these massive competitive events.

In the Hockey Series Finals Scotland will meet France in Dublin in the Pool stages while Canada will play in Valencia. These matches in Glasgow will offer a great spectacle as all teams prepare for the tournaments in June.



Scotland Head Coach Jen Wilson said, “We’re very excited about the opportunity to play against two excellent teams in front of a home crowd. We’ll be putting out a strong team in every match with every available player in the Scotland squad taking the opportunity to compete for places in the Hockey Series Finals squad.

“Canada and France are both in a similar position to us and have different styles of play. These matches are great preparation and we’ll be looking for all our players to show what they can do against this level of opposition.”

Kaz Cuthbert has also been officially announced as Captain of the Scotland Women’s National squad this week, with Becky Ward and Bex Condie as Vice Captain.

Wilson added, “Kaz is the epitome of leading by example. Her energy and leadership on and off the pitch is incredible and she has been completely dedicated to the team and Scottish Hockey over the years. She was the perfect candidate, and with the tremendous support from Becky and Bex we have a fantastic leadership team.”

The Scots are in good form and competition within the squad is strong. A recent training camp in the Netherlands saw the Tartan Hearts clock up a win against top-ten ranked nation, and FIH Pro League competitors, USA in a non-capped training match.

Tickets are on sale now for these matches, and ticket sales will raise funds for the Scotland women’s programme ahead of Women’s EuroHockey Championship II this summer. 

Tickets are available HERE.

Fixtures

    Wed 15 May | 7pm | Scotland v Canada
    Thurs 16 May | 7pm | Scotland v Canada & Scotland Performance Squad v France (5pm)
    Fri 17 May | 3pm | Scotland Performance Squad v France
    Sat 18 May | 3pm | Scotland v Canada 
    Sun 19 May | 12:30pm | Scotland v Canada & Scotland Performance Squad v France (10.00am)
    Tues 21 May | 7pm | Scotland v Canada

Scotland Women’s Team to play 5 Test series vs Canada in May 2019: 

Nikki Alexander-Lloyd (Wimbledon)
McKenzie Bell (Western Wildcats)
Fiona Burnet (Wimbledon)
Louise Campbell (Edinburgh University)
Robyn Collins (Surbiton)
Bex Condie (VC) (Gloucester City)
Kaz Cuthbert (C) (Western Wildcats)
Jen Eadie (Clydesdale Western) 
Amy Gibson (Der Club An Der Alster)
Kerry-Anne Hastings (Durham University)
Kate Holmes (Western Wildcats)
Sarah Jamieson (Muncher Sports Club)
Lexi Sabatelli (Clydesdale Western)
Fiona Semple (Wimbledon)
Millie Steiger (Clydesdale Western)
Laura Swanson (Edinburgh University)
Becky Ward (VC) (Western Wildcats)
Charlotte Watson (Dundee Wanderers)
Jessica Buchanan (Clydesdale Western)
Lucy Camlin (Watsonians)
Lucy Lanigan (Watsonians)

Selected for 3 matches vs France in May 2019 

Karin Belch (Clydesdale Western)
Millie Brown (Clydesdale Western)
Jessica Buchanan (Clydesdale Western)
Lucy Camlin (Watsonians) 
Lorna Cruickshank (Durham University)
Heather Howie (Clydesdale Western)
Lucy Lanigan (Watsonians)
Fran Lonergan (Clydesdale Western)
Rachael Mack (Leceister) 
Claire Wallace (Sevenoaks)  

 * Squad will also include players from the Canada squad

Scottish Hockey Union media release

EHL Women’s ranking table revealed as Surbiton first side to quality


©: World Sport Pics

The European Hockey Federation and Euro Hockey League are delighted to confirm the EHL Ranking Table for the inaugural EHL Women in 2020.

It follows the completion of the EuroHockey Club Cup (EHCC) and the EuroHockey Club Trophy last week where AH&BC Amsterdam landed top honours ahead of Spain’s Real Sociedad in the Cup final.

It leaves the following breakdown of representation for next season’s EHL Women which hits the turf and our screens at Easter 2020:

1. Netherlands (2 teams)
2. Germany (2 teams)
3. Spain (1 team)
4. England (1 team)
5. Ireland (1 team)
6. Belarus (1 team)

These are the same countries that played in the final EHCC in 2019, with Ireland and Belarus swapping ranking places.

As England Hockey is the only country who has completed its playoffs this season, Surbiton Hockey Club is confirmed as the first club ever to qualify for EHL Women.

Their coach Brett Garrard, speaking at last week’s EHCC, said on hearing about this significant milestone for the club: “We are incredibly proud to be the first ever women’s team to qualify for EHL.

“Our club has always aspired to achieve the best we can at the EHCC and to now know that we will be in EHL is a testament to the commitment of the club and in particular to women’s hockey in the club.”

For the Trophy in 2020, the second tier competition will feature the following national breakdown:

1. Spain – second seed
2. England – second seed (Holcombe)
3. Belgium – first seed
4. Ireland – second seed
5. Russia – first seed
6. Belarus – second seed
7. Belgium – second seed
8. France – first seed

Euro Hockey League media release

EHL and Oranje-Rood icon Rob van der Horst set to retire


©: Frank Uijlenbroek / World Sport Pics

Robert van der Horst is set to hang up his stick after 20 years of first team hockey, announcing his decision to retire following Oranje-Rood’s game against Tilburg last weekend.

A club icon in Eindhoven, he was a four-time Hoofdklasse champion with Oranje-Zwart and he won the EHL with the club in 2015. He also picked up an EHL silver in 2017 with Oranje-Rood following their merger with EMHC.

He also won and EHL silver during his three-year stint with HC Rotterdam in 2010.

The 272-time international won Olympic silver in 2012 with the Netherlands. He played his last international match at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

The club, meanwhile, have confirmed Toon Siepman will lead the coaching team for the last few weeks of the season.

Roger van Gent stepped down from the role following the EHL, saying: “My 30-year experience in top sport teaches me that no one is bigger than the team, not even a trainer-coach.

“If I can no longer function optimally, I have to dare to make a choice in the interests of the team, the club and myself.”

Euro Hockey League media release

UCT excited to host their first-ever Varsity Hockey tournament



The first of two legs of the Varsity Hockey tournament get underway in Cape Town between 3 – 6 May 2019 at the UCT Hockey Astro.

This will be the first time in the competition’s history that the University of Cape Town (UCT) will host the tournament. The second leg will take place at the NWU Hockey Astro in Potchefstroom from 10 – 13 May 2019.

The competition works on a gender-rotation system every year and this season it will be the ladies who will be battling it out for the title. Defending champions, University of Pretoria (UP-Tuks) will have their sights set on claiming back-to-back titles. The UP-Tuks men won the competition last year, while the ladies are also the current USSA champions. 

In true Varsity Sports fashion, student-athletes must maintain a minimum number of 60 credits and not be over the age of 25 in order to participate. Hockey will see 13 national team players running out in their respective university colours.

National Players:

    Kristen Paton (UJ)
    Marizen Marais (UP-Tuks)
    Sandiswe Tabata (Maties)
    Stephanie Botha (Maties)
    Ashleigh-Jean Datnow (Wits)
    Nikki Veto (Wits)
    Casey-Jean Botha (Kovsies)
    Courtney du Preez (NWU)
    Mia Barnard (NWU)
    Mishka Ellis (NWU)
    Kirsty Adams (NWU)
    Sare Laubscher (NWU)
    Jacolene Mclaren (NWU)

“We are very excited to host this event,” said UCT head coach, Nicole de Vries. “As a team, we are not only looking to perform consistently and compete for a position in the top four, but also to enjoy the opportunity to participate in such a phenomenal event.”

“On behalf of UCT, we are looking to create an environment and atmosphere where people feel welcome and enjoy their Varsity Hockey experience,” she concluded.

Varsity Hockey code manager Jana Arlow explained that the tournament is one of the greatest amphitheatres for the sport in South Africa.

“The sheer number of Varsity Hockey alumni that have gone on to represent South Africa is an indication of the strength of the tournament and how much value it brings to the sport as a whole.

“None of this would be possible without the generous support of our sponsors FNB, Mugg & Bean and MTN. We are also grateful for the support from the South African Hockey Association and USSA Hockey.”

5FM will host their official after-party following the weekend’s matches, on Monday 6 May at the UCT Hockey Clubhouse.

Varsity Sports media release

Hampstead finally secure Boizot’s Euro hockey dream


Hampstead & Westminster celebrate with their supporters PIC: Simon Parker

No longer do those Hampstead & Westminster supporters resplendent in their old touring jackets need cast their minds back to 1991.

On a March day 28 years ago, H&W played old rivals Surbiton in the London League at Reed’s School. For the winners, there was automatic promotion to the National League up for grabs.

H&W hit the post when a goal to the good in that match and Surbiton subsequently scored. It was the point they wanted to go up, with H&W needing to win. Surbiton have got the better of H&W ever since when its mattered most, but the north Londoners’ title success finally cast aside these narrow misses.

Between 2001 and 2016 in the top flight, H&W finished between fifth and ninth, where they once staved off relegation in 2008. But the club has revelled being the third longest participant in the Premier Division after Reading and Surbiton.

And the Lee Valley triumph would no doubt have been doubly emotional for Toby Roche, the club’s longest-serving captain post-War, who has prevailed through the lean years, as well as serving under five coaches.

As H&W president, the late Peter Boizot often spoke of a European League in the early 1980s and how the club ought to aim to participate.

For many at the club, this seemed a fanciful idea with their London League status. That is until the appointment of New South Wales’ Greg Carr as coach.

It was a decision prompted by Boizot and the 1990s saw a steady climb. Promotion to the top flight began in haste at the turn of the century – including the club’s first play-offs in 2004 under Hockey Paper columnist Todd Williams. And now, 15 years on, they can finally make plans for Europe, where once it was just the dream of Boizot
.
The Hockey Paper

Revealed: True extent of making hockey as a career

By Richard Bright


Eyes on the prize: Moving to Holland is best income generator, says research PIC: SIMON PARKER/ENGLAND HOCKEY

What are the chances of making the grade in hockey? How much will it cost players to set themselves up to make it at the top level? And how long will a career last?

Most readers will know that dual careers are commonplace in hockey – even for the top players – while the sport is not known to be a top earner, with many clubs paying coaches only.

But Money Pug, a price comparison and deal finder website, has put hockey into the top six sports in the UK after compiling research and analysis on the financial cost and likelihood of a future profession in sport.

According to Money Pug, football, rugby, hockey, golf, cricket and tennis provide a wage above the national average, with the result being an increased interest in pursuing a potential career.

It says that a national hockey professional can earn around £20,000, while marking out Ashley Jackson as a top earner on around £80,000 thanks to playing and coaching in the Netherlands.
The Hockey Paper

Don’t let juniors wallow: key steps to enhancing players’ strengths

Todd Williams

I’m mindful that too many cold winters, unforgivable yellow cards and woeful excuses about not making training or fixtures have moved me away from the sorts of coaches on social media who are ‘honoured’ and ‘privileged’ to do what we coaches do.

I much prefer to just go about my business hoping that I, and the players I coach, just enjoy the experience and get something out of it.

And yet, there I was a few weeks ago being genuinely humbled by a letter from England Hockey thanking me for the contribution I’d made to the development of a player – I won’t name the poor devil – who had recently progressed into the England and GB senior set-up.

Of course, it was an honour and privilege (those words again) to coach this player but if truth be told, for all I may have done, only an injury or alien abduction was going to stop this player from getting to the top.

Apart from the moments of self-congratulation though, the letter prompted me to think about some simple and important principles for coaches to bear in mind when it comes to bringing young players through, whether they’ve got any chance of making it to the international level or not.

Sooner rather than later

Whether it’s anything to do with hereditary titles I’m not sure, but it’s been my experience in my 20 years in the UK that the road from junior hockey into the top teams at a club can be long and arduous.

Too often, clubs will pat themselves on the back about their 7th team and all the young players they are “bringing through”. If you think about it though, a 15-year-old who starts in the 7’s will be 21 by the time they make the 1’s, if they go up one team at a time.

Just imagine for a second that you are coaching the best 14-year-old in the country. Given that’s it’s not uncommon for players to debut internationally at 18 or 19, that only gives you a small window to get them into, and then established, in your club’s top team.

And with players so often leaving home to go to university, you need to have them involved at 16, if you want two years out of them before they head off.

The Hockey Paper

'Ashok Kumar' of Kenyan hockey takes final bow

Gilbert Ogolla Manyasi aka ‘Gil Singh’ or ‘Ashok Kumar of Kenya’ nicknamed after the legendary Indian hockey player, passed away on April 21, 2018 at Nairobi West Hospital.

He inspired an entire generation of players from the lakeside region. He triggered an explosion of the sport hitherto-associated with players of Asian extract in the region.

Gilbert Ogolla Manyasi aka ‘Gil Singh’ or ‘Ashok Kumar of Kenya’ nicknamed after the legendary Indian hockey player, passed away on April 21 at Nairobi West Hospital. He will be remembered for his artistry, flamboyance, flare and talent.

Ogolla was teaching law at Technical University of Kenya’s School of Social Sciences and Development Studies, and at the Department of Criminology and Legal Studies.

The family suffered a double tragedy as he died only one month after the death of their younger brother Alphonse Gogo Manyasi. Both will be buried next week in Budalangi.

“He was a marvel to watch, a gem of a player. As a central midfielder, he was all over the dusty pitch yet he would end the game as clean as he had started,” Jos Ayuka, Telkom Posta women’s hockey coach who is among the players he inspired, said.

SKILLED PLAYER

“I found him at Kisumu Boys High School and we couldn’t stop watching this guy play hockey. He was the first player from Kisumu in the national team starting line-up. Those who came after him are Simi Goyal, Peter Akatsa, Mike Omondi, Mangat Singh, Samson Oriso, Oguk, George Jalang’o, among others. We all wanted to be like him,” recalled Ayuka.

At Kisumu Boys, he was the second African player in the school hockey team after Juma Yusuf.

Parminder Singh ‘Kake’, his team mate at Kisumu’s Sikh Union (later Kisumu Simba) and at the national team, concurs. “That was one of the most talented players Kenya produced. We have lost a legend. He was the first indigenous player of proven skill in hockey. He actually was the best player of his generation,” said ‘Kake’.

Edwin Were recalls a young player called to the national team in 1975, along with Richard Kariuki to join the regulars like himself, Tobias Oduor, Sujit Rehal, Davinder Daved, Channa Singh, Rafael Fernandes, Patrick Martins, Joseph Ndungu, for the Rene Frank Gold Trophy in Madras, India, and to prepare for the 1976 Olympics in Montreal which Kenya boycotted.

“The guy was extraordinary, hugely talented with the stick and too confident to the point of arrogance. He perfected mind games, sometimes putting the stick down to adjust stockings in the middle of the game, only to out dribble every opponent on the way to scoring easily,” recalls were.

It was not just hockey where he manifested his multiple talent. Ogola was a top sprinter at Kisumu Boys High School, and a great footballer.

Agonda Lukio, former Re-Union FC striker, recalls Ogolla as a midfielder for Nagpur University where he studied Bachelor of Arts in Economics. He also played for Kisumu Hotstars.

His journey to hockey stardom started at Lake Primary School before moving to Kisumu Boys High School (1972-1977). He also played for Kisumu Simba (Sikh Union) and Nairobi Gymkhana.

His reign in the national team was curtailed by of his long stay in India, where he studied for nine years (1981-1990).

Ogolla is survived by several children. Both brothers will be buried on May 11 at Rugunga Village, Bunyala South in Budalangi Sub-County of Busia County.

Daily Nation