News for 04 October 2019
All the news for Friday 4 October 2019
Indian men’s hockey team beats Belgium 5-1 in final match
Indian men's hockey team concluded its tour of Belgium with a fifth straight victory after it beat the host 5-1 on Thursday at Antwerp.
India's Simranjeet Singh (Left) and Nilakanta Sharma (Right) celebrate the opening goal against Belgium on Thursday. - PTI
Indian men’s hockey team on Thursday produced an attacking masterclass to outclass reigning World and European Champion Belgium 5-1 in the fifth and final match and maintain a hundred per cent record in its Tour of Belgium.
World No 5 India won all five matches during the Tour, beating Belgium 2-0 in the opening match, and registering 6-1 and 5-1 wins over Spain in the next two games, before finishing off its Tour with two more wins (2-1 and 5-1) against the Red Lions.
In the fifth match on Thursday, Simranjeet Singh (7th), Lalit Kumar Upadhyay (35th), Vivek Sagar Prasad (36th), Harmanpreet Singh (42nd) and Ramandeep Singh (43rd) -- all scored a goal each to earn a scintillating victory for the Indian team.
Brimming with confidence after an invincible run, India started the match on the front-foot and produced a stunning move in the 7th minute to take the lead through Simranjeet's goal. Belgium did try to force an equaliser, but its penalty corner was saved by Krishan B Pathak in the 9th minute. The second quarter saw World No. 2 Belgium win back-to-back penalty corners in the 16th minute, but Pathak made sure that the visitor's lead stayed intact.
India started the third quarter with attacking intent, and was rewarded immediately, with Lalit Kumar Upadhyay bagging his first goal of the match in the 35th minute to double India’s lead. Another attack in the next minute saw youngster Vivek Sagar Prasad also register his name on the scoresheet as he produced a crafty finish to beat the Belgian goalkeeper.
P.R. Sreejesh produced a fine save in the 38th minute to keep out Alexander Hendrickx's dragflick but the the world cup winner made it 3-1 from the retake in the 39th minute. In the 42nd minute, dragflicker Harmanpreet Singh converted a penalty corner, while experienced forward Ramandeep Singh finished off a great team move in the 43rd minute to make it 5-1 for India.
Playing at home, the World Champion tried to make inroads into the Indian striking circle, but some strong tackling, and interceptions in the last quarter meant that the Indians maintained their 100 per cent record in the five matches.
Sportstar
Hager makes several changes ahead of final women's Test against India
GB Women 2019
Head coach Mark Hager has made several changes to the GB women’s team ahead of their third and final Test against India tomorrow (4 October).
Laura Unsworth, Susannah Townsend and Sabbie Heesh all return to the squad having been included in the 18-strong side that drew the first match 0-0 on Tuesday but not in team that won 3-1 the following day.
Ellie Rayer, Grace Balsdon, Suzy Petty and Tess Howard – who has recovered from a broken hand – are all included for the first time during the series while Amy Tennant could feature having been on the bench during yesterday’s victory.
Having scored her first GB goal in that win, Charlotte Watson gets another chance to impress alongside Leah Wilkinson, who made her Great Britain debut in the first match.
The hosts will be hoping to build on their fine victory yesterday to ensure they claim the series and continue to build momentum heading into their FIH Olympic Qualifier against Chile at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre on 2-3 November.
GB women to play India (4 October)
Giselle Ansley (Surbiton) – ENG
Grace Balsdon (Hampstead & Westminster) – ENG
Sarah Evans (Surbiton) – ENG
Sabbie Heesh (Surbiton) (GK) – ENG
Tess Howard (East Grinstead) – ENG
Shona McCallin – ENG
Hannah Martin (Surbiton) – ENG
Lizzie Neal (Loughborough Students) – ENG
Hollie Pearne-Webb (Surbiton) (C) – ENG
Suzy Petty (Wimbledon) – ENG
Ellie Rayer (East Grinstead) – ENG
Sarah Robertson (Hampstead & Westminster) – SCO
Amy Tennant (Reading) (GK) – ENG
Anna Toman (Wimbledon) – ENG
Susannah Townsend – ENG
Laura Unsworth (East Grinstead) – ENG
Charlotte Watson (Dundee Wanderers) – SCO
Leah Wilkinson (Holcombe) – WAL
Great Britain Hockey media release
Chile hope to turn up the heat on Great Britain
Continuing our series of video interviews with the teams that will participate in the upcoming FIH Hockey Olympic qualifiers, Chile (FIH World Ranking: 18) captain Camila Caram looks ahead to her team’s all-important two-match clash with Great Britain (WR:5), with a place at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 on the line. The crucial matches will take place at the Lee Valley Hockey Stadium in London, UK, on 26/27 October 2019, with timings to be confirmed in the coming weeks. A transcript of the interview can be found below.
The FIH Hockey Olympic qualifiers will be taking place very soon. How is your team preparing for these hugely important matches?
Camila Caram: We have just come back from a week off to recover some energy. Now we will start training once or twice a day for the next few weeks so it is going to be tough. We are training with some boys so that will help our preparations.
What can we expect to see from your team in the FIH Hockey Olympic qualifiers?
Camila Caram: We are trying to be the surprise team in these FIH Qualifiers so we are hoping to play our best and try to beat Great Britain. We have been working on our short corners so watch out for them.
What are your thoughts about your opponent in the FIH Hockey Olympic qualifiers and how is your squad feeling about these matches?
Camila Caram: Great Britain is a very tough team. We have played only once against them, that was a friendly match. And of course, they are the Olympic champions so it is going to be a really good game and a tough game for us but we will play our way and take it step by step.
Finally, what would qualifying for the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 mean to you and your team?
Camila Caram: An Olympic Games for our team would be a dream come true. It is something we [Chile] have never done before, so, it really would be a dream come true.
Each qualifier consists of two back-to-back matches which will be played in the same venue. The winners of these FIH Hockey Olympic qualifiers will qualify for the 2020 Olympic hockey tournaments which will be staged in Japan’s capital city from 25 July to 7 August next year and involve 12 Men’s and 12 Women’s teams.
#Tokyo2020
#RoadToTokyo
#GiftOfHockey
FIH site
All-weatherman Oltmans is ready
By Jugjet Singh
NSTP/AZHAR RAMLI
NATIONAL hockey coach Roelant Oltmans has been with the team for a year and he is ready for allweather when Malaysia battle Britain in the Olympic Qualifier on Nov 2-3.
“Mind you, we will be playing againstateam who reached the semi-finals of the last World Cup (in Bhubanesar) and we have to be ready for everything they throw at us. (Malaysia finished fifth in the 16-team tournament).
“We also have to be ready for the English weather, as it’s predicted to be around eightto 13 degrees Celsius, but that, too, can change and cause some obstacles.
“After being with the team for a year, I can say we are prepared for all 'weather' and will give our best shot,” said Oltmans after meeting Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Rahman yesterday.
The odds are stacked against Malaysia, as Britain will have their loyal fans rooting for them at the Lee Valley Olympic Stadium in the two-leg do-or-die assignment.
“Taking the last friendlies against South Korea as a guide, I can say that we have started to score goals, but need more work on defending penalty corners,” said the Dutchman.
Malaysia beat South Korea 2-1, drew 2-2, lost 2-0 and 5-4 in the four-match series recently.
So, how did Malaysia lose the third match 2-0 if the forwards are now scoring?
“I was looking for an overall picture from the Korea friendlies, and what many people do not know is I rested many regulars in the third match and that's why we lost 2-0.
“For me, it was more important to see how the team stand when different situations are thrown at them, as well as resting some regulars in that match to avoid injuries.”
The Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) hired Oltmans after missing out on an Asian Games gold and an early ticket to the Olympics last year.
And MHC have told Oltmans to deliver against Britain, and any more excuses will no longer be accepted.
New Straits Times
Syed Saddiq angry with International Hockey Federation
By Jugjet Singh
Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman meets national players at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil yesterday.
HE was only six years old when Malaysia last played hockey at the Olympics — in 2000 in Sydney.
Syed Saddiq Syed Rahman shed his milk teeth, and went on to become Sports Minister but the national men’s hockey team have failed to qualify since.
Yesterday, the 26-year-old Syed Saddiq met with the national players who are preparing for two matches against Britain in London for the last ticket to the Tokyo Olympics next year.
Syed Saddiq was feeling angry yesterday, not because Malaysia have not qualified for the Olympics for a long time but with the sport’s world body.
“I am angry and disappointed with the FIH (International Hockey Federation) for having the home-and-away in London which is a disadvantage to our team in terms of weather as well as fan support. One match should have been held here (in Malaysia).
“But since nothing can be done now (none of the qualifying countries protested when FIH announced that the higher ranked country will host both matches), I call all Malaysians in Europe, if they are able, to travel to London on Nov 2 and Nov 3 to support our hockey team.
“And even though we might just number about 100 at Lee Valley (the venue), we will make sure we will be heard by the players,” said Saddiq who will also watch both the matches in London.
World No 11 Malaysia will battle Britain for the final ticket to the Olympics, and there is little room for error.
Syed Saddiq also met Olympian Nor Saiful Zaini, who played in 2000 Sydney, and who is now coaching the national youth team in a mission to qualify for the Junior World Cup.
“To the players, we will make sure that even though you are playing away, we will make the stadium ‘like home’. Even if our numbers are small, we will cheer till our throats become sore.
“Give your best, and let’s make it this time (to the Olympics),” said Saddiq,
As for the “unfair” FIH qualifier ruling, Saddiq said: “We will make sure our voice is heard on this matter (next time).”
New Straits Times
It’s too little, too late to give FIH the stick, Syed Saddiq
By AFTAR SINGH
Pep talk: Youth and Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman (second from right) talking to national hockey players as Malaysian Hockey Confederation president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal (right) looks on. — AZHAR MAHFOF/ The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Youth and Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman is disappointed with the International Hockey Federation (FIH) over the format of the Olympic playoff matches but his reaction is a tad too late.
Syed Saddiq was crying foul yesterday – three weeks after world No. 11 Malaysia were drawn to play against world No. 7 Britain in a two-match Olympic qualifier in London on Nov 2 and 3.
He said the FIH should have given Malaysia an advantage to host one of the matches – although the governing body had made it clear that the higher ranked teams were given the privilege to host both the legs during the Olympic playoffs.
The Olympic playoffs is the final platform for Malaysia to win tickets to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics.
They have not made the cut for the Olympics since their last appearance at the 2000 Sydney Games.
Syed Saddiq said the FIH should have given Malaysia the right to host one of the matches.
“I believe the FIH have been unfair to Malaysia for not allowing us to host one of the matches, ” said Syed Saddiq after a meeting with the national hockey players, coaching staff and the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) officials at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil yesterday.
“It surely has given Britain the advantage and I’m disappointed with their decision.”
Despite having to play both back-to-back matches away, Syed Saddiq said he still had faith in the national team.
“I believe our team will defy the odds to qualify for the Olympics. I’ll be in London to throw my support behind them and I hope the Malaysian fans in London will cheer them too.”
Malaysia will bring 20 players for two friendly matches against Holland as part of their preparations to get used to the chilly conditions in London.
Only 18 will be selected for the playoffs in London.
The Star of Malaysia
Oman team’s tour to Pakistan a big way of learning: Head coach
LAHORE - Oman hockey team head coach Tahir Zaman said that his team’s tour to Pakistan is of greater significant to learn finer points of the game and to give final touches to its preparations for the Asia Confederation Hockey Cup to be played in Bangladesh from October 14.
Tahir, who is also former Pakistan captain and Olympian, said: “Our players opted to visit Pakistan because of natural hockey skills of Pakistani players and we are very glad and delighted to be here as we are getting much needed experience ahead of our team’s participation in a very important hockey tournament.” Oman team is currently on a four test match tour of Pakistan. The home side beat them 7-0 in the opener and the touring side showed greater display of hockey to earn a 4-4 draw against them. The third match will be played today (Friday). Tahir, a former celebrated forward said the prime objective of this tour is to help the Oman team to win the Confederation Cup and to qualify for the Asia Cup. “Our team is doing well in the tour and I expect it is capable of striking a win against Pakistan development hockey squad given the fact the way it fought in the second match to manage a draw,” he said. He said Oman hockey is at a rise and youth is taking keen interest to take it up as a sport and the Oman hockey team comprises talented players who have all the potential to take their side to excellence.
“I am confident that my team will win the Confederation Cup to earn a place in the Asia Hockey Cup. We are well on path of gaining success and to achieve our desired goals.” Tahir, who was also coach of Pakistan senior and junior teams in the past, said Pakistan hockey needs immediate attention of the government for its revival as the private business houses are not ready to sponsor the national game. “Hockey has changed a lot, it has become a modern sport which needs a panel of coaches to be associated with the team and high profile training of players on modern lines and this objective can only be achieved with lot of resources available,” he added.
He said Oman Hockey Federation is taking all-out measures for the further popularization of hockey and most modern facilities of the game are available to the players and the aspiring youth to play hockey. “Population wide it is not a big country but the youth is passionate to take part in different sports and most modern facilities are available and hockey is being treated in a similar manner,” he said.
To a question, he said that his team will demonstrate a higher level of game in the remaining two matches of the series to get desired results.
The Nation
Draper in line to make GB debut, Sanford returns from injury
Wales’ Jacob Draper could make his Great Britain debut next week after being included in a 20-strong squad set to play two Tests in Spain on 10 and 11 October.
The defender is included in the team on the back of a fine EuroHockey Championship campaign with Wales as he helped them to a sixth-placed finish. He has also been a member of the GB Elite Development Programme (EDP) since its inception and played a key part last year as Great Britain’s U21 men won the Sultan of Johor Cup in Malaysia.
Liam Sanford also makes his international return having not featured since February due to a knee injury, while Liam Ansell is set to pull on the GB shirt for the first time since suffering an ankle injury in May.
Several players could also achieve milestones during the games, with Phil Roper in line to win his 50th GB cap while both Chris Griffiths and Ian Sloan could both play their 100th combined international matches for England and Great Britain. Ashley Jackson will not travel with the squad though as he recovers from an injury back at Bisham Abbey.
These fixtures will act as part of the preparations for the FIH Olympic Qualifers, with Great Britain’s men set to take on Malaysia on 2-3 November at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre.
GB men to play Spain (10-11 October)
David Ames (Holcombe) – ENG
Liam Ansell (East Grinstead) – ENG
Will Calnan (Hampstead & Westminster) – ENG
David Condon (East Grinstead) – ENG
Brendan Creed (Surbiton) – ENG
Adam Dixon (Beeston) (C) – ENG
Jacob Draper (Hampstead & Westminster) – WAL
Alan Forsyth (Surbiton) – SCO
James Gall (Surbiton) – ENG
Harry Gibson (Surbiton) (GK) – ENG
Chris Griffiths (East Grinstead) – ENG
Harry Martin (Hampstead & Westminster) – ENG
George Pinner (Old Georgians) (GK) – ENG
Phil Roper (Wimbledon) – ENG
Liam Sanford (Old Georgians) – ENG
Ian Sloan (Wimbledon) – ENG
Tom Sorsby (Surbiton) – ENG
Jack Waller (Wimbledon) – ENG
Sam Ward (Old Georgians) – ENG
Henry Weir (Wimbledon) – ENG
Great Britain Hockey media release
Official appointments made for Black Sticks Stratford series
The Vantage Black Sticks Men will take on world number 16 Japan in the TSB Community Trust Vantage Black Sticks Men bd Japan 4 test series in Stratford beginning on October 10th. The series will provide an opportunity for several New Zealand officials to further develop their skills in an international environment.
David Tomlinson (NZ), Ben Grant (NZ) and Hideki Kinoshita (JPN) have been appointed as the umpires for the tournament.
Gavin Hawke (NZ) has been appointed as the Technical Official.
The series will allow Dave Tomlinson the ideal preparation before he heads off to Mönchengladbach, Germany where he will officiate the Olympic Qualifier between Germany and Austria on the 2nd and 3rd of November.
Gavin Hawke will be traveling to Bhubaneswar, India where he will be the Technical Official for the matches between India and Russia.
The test series will also provide some outstanding development opportunities for local officials, with 2 judges for each test match being appointed from the Taranaki Hockey Community.
The 13th of October will see an open invitation for the Coaches and Officials breakfast between 9 and 10 am with the Vantage Black Sticks and Japan Samurai coaches.
There is also an open invitation to local senior club umpires to come and be apart of the umpire and match debrief after test number 3 on the 14th October (registration details to follow).
NZ Umpires and Officials Appointed to Olympic Qualifiers
Women
| Kelly Hudson | Umpire | Australia vs Russia | Perth |
| Jackie Tomlinson | Technical Delegate | Australia vs Russia | Perth |
| Sarah Garnett | Umpire Manager | China vs Belgium | Changzhou |
Men
| Gareth Greenfield | Umpire | Canada vs Ireland | West Vancouver |
| David Tomlinson | Umpire | Germany vs Austria | Mönchengladbach |
| Gavin Hawke | Technical Official | India vs Russia | Bhubaneswar |
| Colin French | Umpire Manager | NZ vs Korea | Stratford |
Hockey New Zealand Media release
Hampstead and Surbiton prepare for European challenge
Hampstead and Westminster Men
Reigning Men’s Hockey League champions Hampstead & Westminster and runners-up Surbiton head to Barcelona this weekend as Spain hosts the EuroHockey League.
Both teams begin their campaign on Friday as Hampstead & Westminster take on Dutch outfit HGC at the Pau Negre Stadium at 12:30pm BST, while Surbiton will take on Real Club de Polo at 5pm BST and will expect to have to contend with plenty of local support as the sole Spanish representative.
Depending on their results the two English teams will then play later in the weekend too.
Surbiton will face a clash with either Russian outfit Dinamo Kazan or Saint Germain from France in either the quarter-finals on Sunday if they win or a ranking match on Saturday if they are beaten.
Surbiton's Alan Forsyth. Credit Simon Parker
Hampstead & Westminster’s opponents will be either German side Mannheimer or Montrouge from France and they will also play their quarter-final on Sunday or ranking game on Saturday depending on their KO 16 result.
Surbiton are coached by Mark Pearn who used to play for RC de Polo, while both he and team manager Matt Jones were involved in defeating them whilst at East Grinstead a few years ago.
“The squad are feeling quite buoyant after a good start to the season,” said Jones, who revealed that James Royce is back in contention for this weekend after being rested last weekend.
“We’ve had a couple of outstanding high-scoring performances against Reading and Brooklands MU, and it’s that sort of ruthless professionalism that we intend to take from the domestic game into Europe.”
And his counterpart at Hampstead & Westminster David Stevens said: “We’ve done our research on HGC and we’re looking forward to it. They’re a very strong Dutch team so we know what to expect.
“We’ve pretty much at full strength, and have had a good start to the league programme. It has been a pretty quick turnaround, but we’re in good form and had a good pre-season which included a trip to Brussels.”
Matches will be screened live on www.ehlhockey.tv over the course of the weekend.
England Hockey Board Media release
McCann, Peillat and Barreiros raring to go with Mannhem
Mannheimer HC coach Michael McCann is hoping his side can emulate or improve on last season’s run to EHL BRONZE, a result he described as “an amazing result and experience for all the team, staff and club”.
They start their campaign on Friday morning (11.15am CET) with a battle against CA Montrouge, the French side back in the competition after seven years away.
Coach Michael McCann leads a Mannheim team talk. Pic: Frank Uijlenbroek / World Sport Pics
Incredibly, the German club have never yet been beaten in normal time in 13 games and four EHL campaigns, only losing via shoot-outs. It meant they were denied a GRAND FINAL spot last Easter in Eindhoven by the Waterloo Ducks after a 1-1 draw.
For some, that might leave a bittersweet taste but the coach says it was “the biggest European result for the club in its history (behind our European Indoor Title in 2011) and something that is still spoken about very highly with in the team and club leading up to our next challenge in Barcelona.
“There is not much more we could have done in our preparation vs Waterloo last year and nothing more that we could have asked of our players. I personally look back on last year’s EHL with great memories and hope that we can use the experience from there to assist in qualifying for the Finals in Easter next year.”
They have a star-studded squad once again with Pat Harris, Danny Nguyen, Teo Hinrichs and Lucas Vila all in the mix while the awesome Gonzalo Peillat gives them a razor-sharp threat.
The Olympic gold medalist also looks back on the BRONZE as a massive moment in his career but is already ambitious for more silverware: “I think what he did last year was great. It was the first team for MHC to earn the bronze medal.
“But we cannot live of memories. It must be something that pushes us to the next step and surpass ourselves more and more. This is something this team will try to achieve this season. We know that it is going to be more difficult and a lot of effort but it is the new challenge for this team.”
Another man who sets the tone for Mannheim is diminutive Guido Barreiros, a passionate performer who has been making his presence felt with the club for nine years now. He previously played with FC Barcelona where he met Chrissi Münz who, along with McCann helped convince him to switch to German where he found a new home.
“Münzi , Mike and the club made it very clear that MHC had big plans for the future,” he said. “They want to get better and better, win the Bundesliga and also become stronger in European League; that plan got me in!
“I didn’t know much about the league but I trusted what they told me and, after a short time, I just loved it. I found in MHC something that I had in San Fernando [in Argentina] and is not easy to find: we are a team and a club that is a family all at the same time. That’s probably the biggest reason for me to have been here for so long.”
He now combines his hockey with his passion for yoga and meditation, something which he has practiced for four years now, crediting it with preventing injury and relieving stress.
“Last year, I went to Rishikesh, India study yoga for a few months and I became a Yoga teacher. Since then, I have done it as a job in the off-season, working in retreats or seminars like in Donin, Japan, where I give Asana classes and talks about mindful eating and consciousness.
“This really helped me; I love to share with people and spread it all over. I practice daily yoga, meditation and breathing techniques along with a full vegan diet.”
Barreiros has an inside line on their opponents as his brother, Ramiro, plays in France.
MHC’s Guido Barreiros. Pic: Frank Uijlenbroek / World Sport Pics
“He told me that they are a young and strong team with many French Under-21 players; it will be a hard game. We face this one as every game in the EHL, focus on our hockey and work step by step minute by minute. This competition is very challenging and we know it.”
Coach McCann says the side is currently coping with a number of injuries, meaning he has been calling on a number of the club’s rising youth players in the early weeks of the season. And he is looking forward to see how they cope with the EHL demands.
“We have played the first five matches in Bundesliga without five or six of our starting 11 players and will have to deal with this situation in the EHL as well,” the coach said. “The positive thing has been is we have had the opportunity to develop many of our players that might not have had the opportunities without the injuries.
“In Montrouge, we are excited to be playing a team that we do not know too much about. In these matches, it’s important that we concentrate mainly on ourselves and ensure that we bring the best performance that we can.
“We are expecting a team with a lot of individual quality who is not afraid to play against the top teams in Europe as they will have nothing to lose. They should come into the tournament with lots of confidence on the back of a very successful 2018-19 season.”
Peillat agrees, adding that meeting new opponents is part of the beauty of the competition, especially with the move to a straight knock-out format.
“It is the greatest thing of the EHL, to have the opportunity to play against different teams from around Europe. CA Montrouge is a great team and physically really strong. You cannot have a bad day.
“It is important to go with this mentality and play the best level possible and try to get to the next phase.
“With the new system, the teams are the best from their countries and every phase of the EHL is a final, it becomes more difficult now to reach the next KO. There are gonna be great games in Barcelona this year and probably a few surprises!”
Euro Hockey League media release
Arminen’s Bele looking to summon spirit of 2014 in Barcelona
Robert Bele, left, in action for SV Arminen vs Grange last season. Pic: Frank Uijlenbroek / World Sport Pics
SV Arminen are hoping to summon the spirit of 2014 for their fifth EHL campaign with the Pau Negre Stadium the venue for the most famous weekend in the club’s history.
A resounding win over Kelburne was backed up by a draw against Atletic Terrassa, enough to go through to the KO16 for the first and only time.
Crucial to that performance were the Bele brother Alexander and Robert and the latter says it will always stand out.
“That weekend in Barcelona was really special for us,” Robert told the EHL website.
“Nobody thought that we could top this group but, after beating Kelburne 5-1 with some wonderful goals, we were really self-confident to get the draw with Atletic to top the group due to goal difference.
“Of course this is one of the best EHL memories, but every minute of playing in this competition is really special!”
This weekend, they have another big task in front of them, coming up against Belgian third place finishers Herakles in the KO16. Bele says his side are in good shape at this early stage of the season.
“We had a really good preparation for the EHL with games against TSV Mannheim as well as HGC at our home turf in Vienna! After these two massive weekends for us, we needed a bit of time to get back to full strength.
“But for the EHL, which is our highlight this autumn season, we will be prepared! The national squad trains together in Vienna [for their Olympic qualifiers] so we have only the positive side effect that the international players of our squad are in full training!”
In the Austrian league, they have run up three wins out of five outings, with German player Robert Campe, Sebastian Eitenberger, Lucas Loser, Patrick Schmidt and Fabian Unterkircher among the goals.
The Bele boys have been central in Arminen’s rise in recent years, playing a key role in a series of national championships success. It was not something that was always in their family history but the club is reaping the benefits of long-term structures.
“My brother and myself do not bring a family background of playing hockey with us but we started together quite early and have played together ever since, despite our international adventures, in Belgium and Germany.
“The connection with our teammates is really strong and most of us play together since early youth days, therefore it’s like family for us!
“Our club started with a structured youth section with professional trainers and coaches about nearly 20 years ago. With our strong core of players who have played together since our youth days and the addition of talented young players, we are really successful over the past years and the aim is to hold that level.”
As for the challenge of Herakles, he knows Arminen will be underdogs but is looking forward to the challenge.
“I think Belgian Hockey is at its peak right now so every team from there is a really strong side. They will play a fast and skillful hockey, we will seek our chances out of a strong defense and fast counters. Let‘s see what this game brings, we are ready for this challenge!”
Euro Hockey League media release
Scottish stars Riddell and Forrester looking to make history with Grange
Duncan Riddell during Scotland’s 4-2 win this summer against Wales. Pic: Frank Uijlenbroek / World Sport Pics
Scottish internationals Duncan Riddell and David Forrester are intent on making history with Grange this weekend as they are lining up a first ever knock-out win for their country in the EHL KO16.
They take on Ireland’s Three Rock Rovers who are facing the same challenge on Saturday morning at 9.45am in what will be an intriguing game between two sides who have reasonably close connections.
In 2015, Three Rock won a Euro Trophy contest 3-2 in Dublin with the clubs forging links to run youth tournaments against each other.
Both first teams, however, have changed a lot since then. Indeed, neither Riddell nor Forrester were with the Edinburgh club back then but they cannot wait for the challenge.
For Riddell, his journey started with Watsonians then on to Grange and Grove Menzieshill while a student in Dundee. He went on to Reading in England before returning to Grange last season where he helped them win the Scottish title once again.
Since then, Frank Ryan, Cammy Fraser, Todd Mills and Greg Hopkinson have retired while Dylan Bean returned to Australia. Youngsters Ritchie McCluskey and Ralph Wiessen have moved on to university.
Coming in are Australian import Josh Mcrae and Will Shepherdson while juniors Jamie Croll, Cameron Ede and Joel Davenport are coming through and they helped the side beat Kelburne 8-0 and Watsonians 5-1 in the Scottish league.
Looking at their chances against Rovers, Riddell said: “It’s been quite a big change around this year with a lot of our older experienced players stepping down. The likes of Cammy Fraser, Frank Ryan and Todd Mills are hard players to replace.
“Having said that, the younger guys have really stepped up so far and are working hard to gain a spot in the team. We obviously had a really strong first outing against Kelburne so it’s all looking positive for now!
“I totally agree [facing Three Rock] is definitely a preferred draw for us if you look at who else is involved in the tournament. I don’t actually know too much about them but they obviously did incredibly well in last year’s EHL so they’ll be a tough nut to crack.
“They have also lost a few key players, like ourselves, but I’m sure they’ll still be a very strong outfit and expecting a really tight game.”
Goalkeeper Forrester is their marquee addition to the line-up, moving back to the country after a couple of years with CA Montrouge, culminating in the French side reaching their national final and qualifying for the EHL for the first time in several seasons.
He returns to Scotland to finally start his legal traineeship – “I had been putting it off long enough!” – but is delighted to have the French experience under his belt.
David Forrester in Scotland action this summer. Pic: Frank Uijlenbroek / World Sport Pics
“I loved my time at Montrouge, playing and living in Paris,” Forrester told the EHL website. “I was obviously disappointed not to be able to go to the EHL with Montrouge, but it’s great to be able to go with Grange and it will be nice to see my old teammates out there.
“Hockey in France is obviously not the main sport but the setup at Montrouge was really professional. There is a lot of talent coming through the ranks in France as you can see with their national teams doing well at the moment.
“`the French league is influenced heavily by the Belgian league at the moment, which makes sense given that they share a language and a border. They like to show off their ball carrying skills and generally playing attacking hockey.”
Now the challenge is to make an impact with Grange.
“I think it’s fair to say that the club is going through a mini transition period with some older guys stopping and plenty of younger players coming through the ranks into the first team.
“The team has bedded in well so far and the young guys are stepping up to the plate. It will be exciting to see how they play on the EHL stage, I’m confident they will not disappoint.”
Euro Hockey League media release
Big weekend of Hockey in Premiership and Grange in EHL
EURO HOCKEY LEAGUE (EHL)
Grange are targeting a place in the last eight of the EuroHockey League (EHL) in Barcelona this weekend, the opposition is Ireland`s Three Rock Rovers in Saturday morning`s knock-out tie.
While the Irish champions will certainly be no pushover, at least Grange have avoided powerful sides from the likes of Germany, Netherlands, England or Belgium.
Martin Shepherdson, Grange`s manager, said: “We know Three Rock Rovers are a very tough side to play and they are experienced at this level, but we believe that if we play to our best we can beat them.”
Perhaps not so encouraging is that the sides met before in the 2015 tournament, on that occasion Three Rock Rovers were 4-2 winners.
Grange are almost at full strength, only player/coach Callum Milne is unavailable due to work commitments, so Stevie Grubb will be in charge.
Whatever Saturday`s result, the Scottish champions will take on either Rot-Weiss Koln (Germany) or Royal Beerschot (Belgium) on Sunday, either for a place in the semi-finals or a ranking match.
“Whether we play Rot-Weiss or Beerschol, we are playing right at the highest level of competition in European hockey – and know that will be incredibly tough,” said Shepherdson. “We look at this as a challenge and aim to compete as hard as we can.”
However, Shepherdson observed that the EHL has come a bit early in the season for Grange.
He said: “We have had quite a few changes in personnel and with a new coaching team, we are probably not at our peak yet.
“However, we have a lot of talented players and will give it a good shot, and gain from the experience.”
Although Grange have the confidence of two victories over Kelburne and Watsonians in the Premiership, they have not yet experienced the pressures of a close, competitive encounter this season – that could come on Saturday.
PREMIERSHIP
Taking advantage of Grange`s absence in Barcelona Grove Menzieshill could make pole position in the men`s Premiership their own if they can overcome Watsonians on Tayside.
The Dundonians have scored 15 goals in their two outings so far with Keir Robb, Jamie Golden, Luke Cranney and Albert Rowling dividing the strikes between them. In fact, in last weekend`s game against Kelburne it could be argued that Grove Menzieshill could have scored more than eight, although the Paisley keeper was partly responsible for keeping the score down.
Watsonians have made a reasonable start to the campaign with a win and a loss, they face a challenge against the Tayside goal machine.
Western Wildcats will aim to keep up the pressure with three points from newly promoted Dundee Wanderers. Vishal Marwaha`s young cubs were on top form against Hillhead last weekend with Andrew McConnell and Fraser Moran being the main contributors in front of goal.
The closest game of the day could be at Peffermill where Edinburgh University take on in-form Clydesdale. Both sides had big wins last weekend and are beginning to show some form – so this one could go either way and perhaps even a share of the points.
The clash between Hillhead and Kelburne is a critical affair – both have still to collect their first point and have conceded 30 goals between them in their opening two matches.
There is no doubting the game-of-the-day in the women`s Premiership, it is at Titwood between Clydesdale Western and league leaders Western Wildcats. So far both have scored lots of goals against teams destined for the lower echelons of the table.
There is not really a lot of form to judge which side might have the upper hand, so it is possible that the outcome may come down to a single goal margin.
Third placed Dundee Wanderers could take advantage if either or both Clydesdale and Western Wildcats drop points, the Taysiders will be set out to pick up three points at home to Hillhead and move further up the table.
The Dundonians have shown steady improvement over the last few seasons and their gritty 1-0 win at Watsonians last weekend was a sign that they are likely to be challenging for honours at the end of the campaign.
For Watsonians it was a learning curve, an opinion shared by coach Keith Smith.
“The girls were disappointed, partly because we should have taken something from the game, and partly because we only played well in fits and starts.
“It was a sharp lesson for us – we let our frustration get the better of us at times and it affected our flow and decision-making too often.
“Wanderers were savvier at managing the game and we can learn from that going forward.”
Smith`s charges have the ideal chance to demonstrate what they have learnt against Grove Menzieshill on Saturday. If Watsonians hope to make the top four at the end of the season, this is the sort of game they must win.
Certainly the Dundonians have won both their games so far against Glasgow University (4-2) and GHK (3-1), so an interesting clash is in the offing.
Elsewhere, Edinburgh University will hope to see off newly promoted Merlins Gordonians who have had a baptism of fire with Western Wildcats and Clydesdale Western in their opening encounters in the top flight.
At the bottom end of the division four teams are still pointless, that should change following Saturday`s confrontation between Glasgow University and GHK.
Scottish Hockey Union media release
Sultana Bran Hockey One League Round 2 preview
The Sultana Bran Hockey One League heads to Hobart and Melbourne for the first time, while it’s a cross border rivalry between the ACT and NSW in Round 2 of the season.
After a cracking opening weekend, Round 2 promises more of the same. First up Canberra Chill are at home for the second straight week, this time for the visit of NSW Pride on Saturday.
Both clubs’ women’s and men’s teams had contrasting fortunes in their opening matches, which makes Saturday’s match ups all the more intriguing and important.
The Canberra Chill Women prevailed in a thrilling penalty shootout win over Brisbane Blaze in Round 1, while NSW Pride Women were upset at home by Adelaide Fire 2-1.
If the Chill are to make it back to back wins and inflict a second straight defeat for the Pride, they will have to do it without experienced trio Anna Flanagan and the Bone twins, Edwina and Meredith.
On the flipside, after their 4-1 loss to Brisbane Blaze last Sunday, Canberra Chill’s Men’s Team will be out to make amends when they take on a NSW Pride outfit that was made to work hard for its narrow home win over Adelaide Fire.
The Adelaide Fire find themselves on the road again, this time across Bass Strait to face the Tassie Tigers, who had the bye in the opening round.
With quality media coverage and a highly anticipated build up in the Apple Isle for the Tassie Tigers’ first fixture of the season, coupled with the National Under 13 Hockey Carnival currently being held in Hobart, a big crowd is expected for the prime time encounter. The women’s match opens proceedings at the Tasmanian Hockey Centre from 5pm with the men’s scheduled for 6.30pm.
Then on Sunday, the HC Melbourne women’s and men’s teams, both of whom will be brimming with confidence after wins over the Perth Thundersticks last weekend, welcome Brisbane Blaze to the State Netball and Hockey Centre.
HC Melbourne Women scored a thrilling last gasp victory to beat the Thundersticks, but Madi Ratcliffe, who scored the winner against Perth, will be absent on Sunday due to work commitments. Brisbane Blaze Women also have a significant out with captain and Hockeyroo Jodie Kenny unavailable.
For the men’s match, Brisbane Blaze will be without experienced duo Shane Kenny and Matt Swann but welcome in Kookaburra Daniel Beale and talented local Jared Taylor, who is the brother of Hockeyroo and Brisbane Blaze defender Renee Taylor.
With only seven rounds in the season every result is critical, so expect more fast and full throttle hockey action in the Sultana Bran Hockey One League this weekend.
For ticketing details click here. Every match of the Sultana Bran Hockey One League will be broadcast LIVE and exclusive on Kayo.
Sultana Bran Hockey One 2019 Season – Round 2 Fixtures
Canberra Chill v NSW Pride
Sunday 5 October 2019
National Hockey Centre (ACT)
Match Start: Women’s 2:00pm local (2:00pm AEST), Men’s 3:30pm local (3:30pm AEST)
Tickets: Click here for ticketing details
Broadcast: LIVE and exclusive on Kayo
Join the conversation on Twitter using the hashtags #CCHvNSW #HockeyOne
Canberra Chill Women’s team: Sakiyo Asano (GK), Kalindi Commerford (c), Sassie Economos, Mikayla Evans, Naomi Evans, Sophie Gaughan, Yui Ishibashi, Rebecca Lee, Beckie Middleton, Shihori Oikawa, Brooke Peris, Aleisha Price, Tiny Taseska, Taylor Thomson
In: Mikayla Evans, Aleisha Price, Tina Taseska, Taylor Thomson
Out: Edwina Bone, Meredith Bone, Anna Flanagan, Jess Smith
NSW Pride Women’s team: Alice Arnott, Jocelyn Bartram (GK), Morgan Blamey, Kate Jenner (c), Sarah Johnston, Kaitlin Nobbs, Mikaela Patterson, Casey Sablowski, Courtney Schonell, Maddison Smith, Emma Spinks, Jessica Watterson, Mariah Williams, Abby Wilson
In: Jessica Watterson
Out: Renae Robinson
Canberra Chill Men’s team: 1.Aaron Knight, 2.Ben Staines, 3.Anand Gupte, 4.James Day, 7.Kazuma Murata, 8.Daniel Conroy, 10.Owen Chivers, 11.Garry Backhus, 12.Jake Staines (c), 13.Manabu Yamashita, 17.Aaron Kershaw, 30.Andrew Charter (GK), Kentaro Fukuda, James Jewell
In: Kentaro Fukuda, James Jewell
Out: 5. Lewis Shepherd, 22. Jay MacDonald
NSW Pride Men’s team: Tim Brand, Tom Craig, Matthew Dawson, Hayden Dillon, Blake Govers, Jack Hayes, Ehren Hazell, Kurt Lovett, Dylan Martin, Ryan Proctor, Lachlan Sharp, Nathanael Stewart, Ash Thomas (GK), Tristan White
In: Lachlan Sharp
Out: Flynn Ogilvie
Tassie Tigers v Adelaide Fire
Saturday 5 October 2019
Tasmanian Hockey Centre (TAS)
Match Start: Women’s 5:00pm local (5:00pm AEST), Men’s 6:30pm local (6:30pm AEST)
Tickets: Click here for ticketing details
Broadcast: LIVE and exclusive on Kayo
Join the conversation on Twitter using the hashtags #TIGvADL #HockeyOne
Tassie Tigers Women’s team: Holly Bonde, Phillida Bridley, Esmee Broekhuizen, Lauren Canning, Jessica Chesterman, Emily Donovan, Jean Flanagan, Nicole Geeves, Molly Haas, Ruby Haywood, Madeleine Hinton, Caashia Karringten, Katerina Lacina, Samantha Lawrence, Sarah McCambridge, Hannah Richardson, Sophie Rockefeller, Isabelle Sharman, Laura Spandler, Amelia Spence
Adelaide Fire Women’s team: Linzi Appleyard, Brooklyn Buchecker, Jane Claxton, Emma De Broughe, Kate Denning, Holly Evans, Emily Grist, Amy Hammond (GK), Sarah Harrison, Amy Hunt, Euleena Maclachlan, Gemma McCaw, Karri McMahon, Gabi Nance, Hattie Shand, Miki Spano, Ashlee Wells (GK), Leah Welstead
Tassie Tigers Men’s team: Kieron Arthur, Hayden Beltz, Joshua Beltz, James Bourke, Joshua Brooks, Kurt Budgeon, Henry Chambers, Tim Deavin, Eddie Ockenden, Gobindraj Gill, Jeremy Hayward, Nicolas Leslie, Joshua Mardell, Sam McCambridge, Linden McCarthy, Sam McCulloch, Benjamin Read, Oliver Smith, Jack Welch, Grant Woodcock
Adelaide Fire Men’s team: Lachlan Busiko, Eddie Chittleborough (GK), Angus Fry, Scott Germein, Fred Gray, Ross Hetem, Cameron Joyce, Luke Larwood, Andy Leat, Dan Mitchell, Al Oliver, Glyn Tamlin, Kota Watanabe, Chris Wells, Simon Wells, Cameron White, Hirotaka Zandana
HC Melbourne v Brisbane Blaze
Sunday 6 October 2019
State Netball and Hockey Centre (VIC)
Match Start: Women’s 1:00pm local (1:00pm AEDT), Men’s 2:45pm local (2:45pm AEDT)
Tickets: Click here for ticketing details
Broadcast: LIVE and exclusive on Kayo
Join the conversation on Twitter using the hash-tag #HCMvBBZ #HockeyOne
HC Melbourne Women’s team: Laura Barden, Krissy Bates, Lily Brazel, Kary Chau, Laura Desmet, Hannah Gravenall, Nicola Hammond, Carly James, Amy Lawton, Rachael Lynch (GK), Claire Messent, Sam Snow, Sophie Taylor, Florine Van Grimbergen
In: Laura Barden, Nicola Hammond
Out: Olivia Colasurdo, Madi Ratcliffe
Brisbane Blaze Women’s team: 1.Savannah Fitzpatrick, 2.Madison Fitzpatrick, 3.Layla Eleison, 4.Ashlea Fey, 5.Rosie Malone, 6.Morgan Gallagher, 8.Jordyn Holzberger, 10.Madeleine James, 14.Meg Pearce, 15.Hannah Astbury (GK), 19.Morgan Mathison, 21.Renee Taylor, 22.Britt Wilkinson, 25.Georgia Hillas
In: 10. Madeleine James (promoted)
Out: 7. Jodie Kenny
HC Melbourne Men’s team: 2.Max Hendry, 3.Simon Borger, 5.Andrew Philpott, 9.Nathan Ephraums, 10.Russell Ford (c), 13.Jayshaan Randhawa, 14.Jonathan Bretherton, 15.Josh Simmonds, 17.Kiran Arunasalam, 18.Johan Durst (GK), 21.Jake Sherren, 23.Joel Carroll, 25.Aaron Kleinschmidt, Will Gilmour
In: Will Gilmour
Out: 8. Josh Pollard
Brisbane Blaze Men’s team: 3.Corey Weyer, 4.Hugh Pembroke, 5.Scott Boyde, 7.Joel Rintala, 9.Jacob Anderson, 10.Robert Bell, 12.Jake Whetton, 14.Luke Tyne, 15.Justin Douglas, 16.Tim Howard, 23.Daniel Beale, 26.Dylan Wotherspoon, 27.Jared Taylor, 32.Mitchell Nicholson (GK)
In: 23. Daniel Beale (returns from injury), 27. Jared Taylor (promoted)
Out: 2. Shane Kenny, 20. Matt Swann
Perth Thundersticks – BYE
Sultana Bran Hockey One media release
Ockenden and Tassie ready to turn it on
He had to watch the first round on Kayo but now Eddie Ockenden is gearing up to lead the Tassie Tigers in their first match of the season.
The Tassie Tigers had the bye in the opening round of the Sultana Bran Hockey One 2019 Season but they are ready to launch in as they host Adelaide Fire in a prime Saturday afternoon slot.
Having only arrived in Hobart last night, we caught up with Ockenden on the eve of their clash with Adelaide Fire.
Thanks for your time Eddie. It must have been tough having to watch on as the league kicked off last weekend. How much are you and your team mates looking forward to getting out there?
EO: “It was a bit different having a bye in the first round. Getting down here (in Hobart) late last night means that the whole team is together for the first time now. Everyone is ready to go and there is a really great feeling amongst the group. There are also a number of young guys coming in for the first time which is awesome.”
There has been a great build up in Tasmania, particularly through the media, for your first home games. Do you get the feeling there is a genuine buzz around the place?
EO: “The hockey community here is fantastic. I think we get amazing support and are lucky with how much the State gets behind us. I think having men’s and women’s teams and a national competition here is really important for the State.
The majority of the squad has been training together for a while now but you only rolled in last night from Perth where you are based for the Kookaburras. Are there difficulties around not being able to train much with the group?
EO: “It’s not difficult but it’s definitely a challenge. I think State teams are used to it now with the national program being based in Perth. We don’t get a lot of opportunities to train with our State teams so it’s not ideal but you get a real energy when you come in and get to be with guys from your home State. The first few games are probably the toughest because you’re trying to get up to speed and get on the same page but it’s not anything new.
The double header is in a prime time Saturday slot. How excited are you about getting into it in front of your home crowd?
EO: “I feel very lucky to be from Tassie. Everyone gets behind you and I’m very proud to be representing Tasmania on the world stage when I play for the Kookaburras. We have been getting great support – we’ve been on a the back and front pages of the newspaper this week and I’m sure the hockey community will turn out in good numbers to watch and support us. And we’re really pushing people who may not have experienced hockey before to come along.
Whenever I have invited people to come and watch for the first time, they think ‘wow, that was awesome’. The aim is to reach out to those people who may not have seen hockey before, bring the kids along and I think it’s a great sport to get kids into playing.”
Your opponents Adelaide Fire were brave against NSW Pride, what are you expecting from them?
EO: “Just thinking back to the Australian Hockey League of previous years, I’ve never had an easy game playing for Tasmania. There is never a game when you think this is going to be easy and I think that’s the strength of the national competition. We’re expecting a very well structured Adelaide Fire team, a team that is going to work really hard which is exactly what we’re going to try and do. I think all games are going to be pretty close in this league.”
With only seven rounds in the season there is no time to be able to slip up if you want to be in the mix for finals. Is that how you see it?
EO: “The competition is so close and only having a top four, you’ve really got to make sure you get enough points along the way, particularly when you play at home.
Finally, the players showed a lot of passion in the opening round which really demonstrated how much playing in the Sultana Bran Hockey One League means to them. What do you think this league has brought to Australian hockey?
“I think everyone has got a lot of excitement about the league. There is a lot of interest and the games are being streamed on Kayo so all of these little things contribute to the energy of the players on the field and everything else that is going on. Can’t wait to be part of it.”
Sultana Bran Hockey One media release
PREVIEWS: Men's Hockey League
High-flying Old Georgians head to East Grinstead in the Men’s Hockey League Premier Division on Sunday, as they bid to continue their great start to life in the top flight.
Unbeaten so far and with two wins from their first three matches, the division newcomers are already reaping the rewards of some shrewd summer signings including GB aces Ashley Jackson, George Pinner and Liam Sanford.
“It should be a good test,” said Old Georgians’ club captain Tom Doran, who has been with the club for 18 years. “We’re watching loads of video footage at the moment, but we will look to play the way we want to play and control the game.
“Having several guys with Premier Division experience helps massively. We’re happy with how we’ve started, but we were disappointed to concede late on last weekend, but overall we’re satisfied with our start.”
Elsewhere Holcombe go to Reading on Saturday evening in search of victory having suffered their first loss of the season last weekend against Hampstead & Westminster, who are in European action alongside Surbiton this weekend.
Brooklands MU host Beeston on Saturday afternoon, while in the Premier Division’s other match of the weekend the University of Exeter go to unbeaten Wimbledon.
It could be a goal fest in the Men’s Division 1 North this weekend as the University of Durham – who fired seven goals past hosts Leeds in their opening game – face a University of Birmingham team who scored six of their own last time out.
Cardiff & Met are at home against the City of Peterborough and will also want to continue their free-scoring ways having beaten Olton & West Warwicks 7-3 last Sunday.
In the Men’s Division One South, Southgate ran out 8-1 winners in week one, and Sunday sees them take on Brighton & Hove, who also won their first match.
Elsewhere, second-placed Oxted go to Sevenoaks, while Teddington are another team looking to make it two wins from two when they host Oxford Hawks this week.
The early leaders in the Men’s Conference East, Chichester head to Cambridge City on Sunday, while Spencer travel to London Edwardians with both teams looking for a second consecutive victory.
Belper and Didsbury Northern both made winning starts to their fixtures in the Men’s Conference North, and they face each other this weekend.
And in the Men’s Conference West, Old Cranleighans go to Richmond in search of another clean sheet following their 4-0 win over the University of Exeter’s second team last weekend.
FIXTURES
Men’s Hockey League (Sat, 5 October 2019):
Premier Division
Brooklands MU v Beeston 13:30
Reading v Holcombe 18:30
Division One North
Univ of Nottingham v Loughborough Students 17:00
Conference North
Timperley v Lichfield 18:00
Men’s Hockey League (Sun, 6 October 2019):
Premier Division
East Grinstead v Old Georgians 14:00
Wimbledon v Univ of Exeter 14:30
Division One North
Cardiff & Met v City of Peterborough 12:30
Olton & West Warwicks v Leeds 13:30
Univ of Durham v Univ of Birmingham 14:00
Bowdon v Sheffield Hallam 14:30
Division One South
Team Bath Buccaneers v Havant 12:00
Canterbury v Fareham 12:45
Teddington v Oxford Hawks 13:30
Sevenoaks v Oxted 14:00
Southgate v Brighton & Hove 14:30
Conference East
London Edwardians v Spencer 12:30
Cambridge City v Chichester 13:30
Bedford v Wapping 14:00
Bromley & Beckenham v Old Loughtonians 14:00
St Albans v Harleston Magpies 14:00
Conference West
Cheltenham v Univ of Exeter 12:30
Isca v Cardiff University 12:30
Khalsa Leamington v Univ of Bristol 12:30
Ashmoor v Harborne 13:00
Richmond v Old Cranleighans 13:30
Conference North
Barford Tigers v Deeside Ramblers 13:00
Alderley Edge v Preston 14:00
Doncaster v Wakefield 14:00
Didsbury Northern v Belper 14:30
England Hockey Board Media release
PREVIEW: Investec Women's Hockey League
After securing their first win of the season with a late goal last weekend, Bowdon Hightown entertain leaders Hampstead & Westminster as they search for another victory in the Investec Women’s Hockey League Premier Division on Saturday.
Sian French’s 69th minute strike saw the Cheshire outfit battle back from behind at Loughborough Students on Saturday, and they will be aiming to take that fighting spirit into their clash with their high-flying opponents.
“We have seen footage of Hampstead & Westminster, however we will be concentrating on what we can do and not the opposition. But we’re very much looking forward to welcoming them to Bowdon Hockey Club,” said Bowdon Hightown manager Sam Leckey.
“Our aims this season are to try and make the play-offs after several years of maintaining our position in the league and see where that takes us.
“We have been lucky enough to retain all our players from last year; the younger ones have a year’s Premier Division experience and they have come on hugely. We are also very fortunate in the return of Xenna Hughes from East Grinstead and of the addition of U16 England player Beth Alexander from Brooklands Poynton.
“We also have two New Zealand players joining us this season – Alex Lukin and Emma Rainey, so very excited to see what they bring to Bowdon Hightown from the NZ game.”
Elsewhere, Surbiton have also won all three of their opening matches and they go to Clifton Robinsons this Saturday in search of another victory. The Bristol side were leading against Hampstead & Westminster last weekend until two goals in the last five minutes saw the Londoners snatch the win.
Buckingham are also on the road with a match at East Grinstead, who are still searching for their first points of the season.
The University of Birmingham host Beeston with both teams looking for their first win, and Holcombe are at home against Loughborough Students in the top flight’s other clash.
In the Investec Women’s Division 1 North, Olton & West Warwicks head to Stourport with both sides having won their opening matches.
Table toppers Leicester City are at home against Leeds, while Ben Rhydding go to Brooklands-Poynton in search of a second win in as many matches too.
And it’s a top two clash in the Investec Women’s Division 1 South as Trojans host Wimbledon with both sides having secured impressive wins in week one.
Elsewhere Sevenoaks go to Isca as they bid to make it two wins out of two, while Reading are at home against Cambridge.
FIXTURES
Investec Women’s Hockey League (Sat, 5 October 2019):
Investec Premier Division
Clifton Robinsons v Surbiton 13:00
Bowdon Hightown v Hampstead & Westminster 13:45
Univ of Birmingham v Beeston 14:15
East Grinstead v Buckingham 16:30
Holcombe v Loughborough Students 16:30
Investec Division 1 North
Brooklands-Poynton v Ben Rhydding 11:45
Swansea v Belper 12:00
Leicester City v Leeds 14:00
Univ of Durham v Gloucester City 15:00
Stourport v Olton & West Warwicks 18:00
Investec Division 1 South
Isca v Sevenoaks 12:00
Trojans v Wimbledon 12:00
Slough v Harleston Magpies 12:15
Canterbury v St Albans 14:00
Reading v Cambridge City 16:30
Investec Conference East
Ipswich v Barnes 12:00
Wimbledon v Canterbury 13:30
Horsham v Chelmsford 14:00
Broxbourne v Bromley & Beckenham 14:30
Bedford v Southgate 15:00
Investec Conference North
Pendle Forest v Wakefield 11:30
Sutton Coldfield v Beeston 12:30
Univ of Nottingham v Doncaster 13:00
Alderley Edge v Fylde 14:00
Timperley v Cannock 14:15
Investec Conference West
Oxford Hawks v Team Bath Buccaneers 12:00
Univ of Birmingham v Oxford University 12:30
Exe v Cheltenham 13:00
Basingstoke v Univ of Bristol 14:00
Clifton Robinsons v Surbiton 14:00
England Hockey Board Media release
Australian Indoor Hockey Season kicks off in Wollongong
Nic Kerber
The best indoor hockey players from around Australia will descend on Wollongong over the next two weekends for training camps.
Over 80 athletes will participate in the camps, which will comprise of Women’s and Men’s Under 18 and Open/Under 21 groups.
National Indoor Head Coaches Steve Willer and Mark Sandhu will conduct the training sessions, with the weekend to also involve a host of workshops.
“For the Under 18 players, the invitation to take part in these camps is just reward for their standout performances at the 2019 Australian U18 Indoor Hockey Championships held in Goulburn back in January,” said Sandhu.
“The camps can be viewed as a developmental opportunity for the U18s whilst the Open and U/21 players will be focused on their preparation for the upcoming tours to Austria and Russia in November and December.
“It’s also the first opportunity to evaluate the potential impact of the changes introduced in the 2019 Rules of Indoor Hockey by FIH.”
Furthermore, through an initiative of the Hockey Australia Indoor Advisory Group, observer coaches have also been identified and invited to the camps as a developmental opportunity.
“We have a couple of coaches travelling from interstate which is great,” said Sandhu.
“Their ranks have been added to by NSW coaches who have also taken up the opportunity. It’s the start of the indoor hockey season and it’s exciting to be back in Wollongong where the 2020 Australian Indoor Hockey Championships will be held in January.”
The training camps will be held at the Unanderra Hockey Stadium commencing on Friday afternoon and running until Sunday.
Details
2019 Australian Indoor U18 Hockey Camp
4-6 October 2019, Wollongong NSW
2019 Australian Indoor Open/U21 Hockey Camp
11-13 October 2019, Wollongong NSW
Hockey Australia media release
Emma DeBerdine’s OT goal pushes No. 4 Maryland field hockey past No. 5 Northwestern, 2-1
David Suggs
Midfielder Emma DeBerdine during Maryland field hockey’s 2-1 win over No. 18 Rutgers on Sept. 28, 2019 in Piscataway, New Jersey. (Julia Nikhinson)
Going into Maryland field hockey’s clash with No. 5 Northwestern, coach Missy Meharg pushed the Terps to show off their finishing quality, especially after struggling to put up a convincing scoreline in their 2-1 victory over No. 18 Rutgers on Saturday.
But even as the Terps continued to rack up shots on the Wildcats’ frame, they couldn’t add to their 1-0 lead. So Meharg paced back and forth on the sideline as the Terps — despite an overwhelmingly dominant display — held a thin 1-0 lead late in the fourth quarter.
And when defender Kirsten Mansfield flicked the ball into the open net after it got through goalkeeper Noelle Frost’s pads, there was a sense of inevitability given Maryland’s inability to cap off an impressive showing with more goals.
But the Terps showed heart, continuing to probe Florien Marcussen’s cage in the two overtime periods. And eventually, this determination paid off, with midfielder Emma DeBerdine rifling the ball past Marcussen to lift the Terps to a dramatic 2-1 double-overtime victory on Thursday.
“The outcome is the right outcome for the quality of [our] play,” Meharg said. “It probably was the best connection we had line-to-line. … We couldn’t be more pleased.”
No. 4 Maryland returned to Evanston, Illinois, after playing there for the Big Ten/ACC Cup earlier in the year, this time to take on No. 5 Northwestern and its high-powered attack led by forward Bente Baekers — who entered into Thursday’s game with an NCAA-leading 16 goals.
With the Terps and Wildcats ranking No. 1 and No. 2 in scoring in the Big Ten, a goal-fest seemed likely. And this belief was seemingly confirmed five minutes into the game.
DeBerdine nicked the ball off of a Northwestern attacker before driving toward the shooting circle, eventually whipping a centering pass toward Marcussen’s net.
And while Northwestern’s shot-stopper batted the ball away, the rebound fell to midfielder Linda Cobano, who deftly shifted the ball over to Kelee Lepage. The defender then shimmied her way around a couple of Northwestern defenders before lifting the ball above Marcussen’s pad and into the back of the cage — her first goal of the season.
“She’s got a whole level of swag to her that’s super confident,” Meharg said. “She can play the game the entire time and she’s going to be able to give you that extra push into the circle.”
It was the Terps who looked more likely to score the next goal. Cobano, fresh off being named the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week, continued to test Marcussen, forcing the Wildcats’ goalkeeper into two saves.
Maryland continued to assert its dominance in the second frame, outshooting Northwestern 7-0. But despite the overwhelming control, Meharg’s team was unable to add to its lead, with Marcussen — and the post — denying the Terps.
“We just need to keep shooting,” DeBerdine said. “They’re just going to go in.”
Defender Bodil Keus saw an early penalty-corner effort hit the woodwork, eventually falling to forward Bibi Donraadt, who struck the crossbar from just outside of the goalmouth.
Meanwhile, Marcussen would make an additional four saves in the second to keep the deficit at one.
“I think we hit a fair number of crossbars, I think their goalie was on fire,” Meharg said. “The reality is you always can take better shots.”
On the other side of the ball, Northwestern’s attack was impotent, failing to record a shot in the first half. The Terps kept the Wildcats pinned back due to their fluid attacking play, ensuring that the high-octane Northwestern attack was unable to push forward and create any real scoring chances.
“We were collective in our defense,” Meharg said, “and I think we were very strong in our back left corner.”
While the Wildcats eventually recorded their first shot in the third quarter — a Baekers effort that was easily dealt with by Frost — Maryland remained on top, firing four shots in the frame. But Meharg’s squad couldn’t find that elusive second goal, with Cobano and Donraadt seeing their strokes go wide of the mark.
The fourth quarter proved to be a far tighter affair, with neither team recording a shot until the two-minute mark. Forward/midfielder Lakin Barry fired a speculative strike toward Frost off a penalty corner. The ball squirted through Frost’s pads and into the path of Mansfield, who flicked the ball into the empty net to knot the game up at one and send the game into overtime.
“We always say that 7v7 is our time,” LePage said. “We’ve been in these situations before and we know that if we play together we’re going to be fine.”
Maryland continued to create scoring opportunities in the first extra period, but Northwestern’s defense limited the quality of their chances, keeping the Terps’ attackers on the outside. The Wildcats, on the other hand, looked rejuvenated after their late equalizer. While they were unable to create a bevy of chances for themselves, they were active around Frost’s goalmouth, forcing the Maryland goalkeeper to come out to take care of dangerous passes.
But neither side could find the back of the cage, sending the game into a second overtime period. Five minutes later, DeBerdine did just as she did in the first quarter, poking the ball off midfielder/defender Alia Marshall before rifling it into the bottom-left corner of the cage to secure the Terps’ third overtime victory over a top-10 team.
“She hit it to a tee technically,” Meharg said. “Her vision was up, she saw the goalie commit, [and] she put it where she needed to put it.”
The Diamondback
No. 4 Maryland beats No. 5 Northwestern in overtime
Peter Warren
Freshman midfielder Ana Medina Garcia hits the ball. The freshman from Madrid took one shot Thursday. Credit: Alison Albelda
For almost all of Thursday’s matchup between No. 4 Maryland and No. 5 Northwestern, the Terrapins dominated the contest. But a late goal from senior defender Kirsten Mansfield knotted the game at one, turning the game into a more even contest.
The two powerhouses went to overtime, and the game seemed destined for a shootout. But freshman defender Alia Marshall was disposed deep in Wildcats territory by Emma DeBerdine. DeBerdine dribbled up and shot the ball past junior goalkeeper Florien Marcussen into the far netting, giving Maryland (10-1, 3-0 Big Ten) the 2-1 overtime victory Thursday at Lakeside Field.
“We didn’t have a good first half,” Marcussen said. “It’s frustrating if you do such a good job coming back in the game and lose it in the final few minutes.”
NU (10-3, 3-1) played most of the game in its own half of the field, as the Terrapins forced the issue on the offensive end. Led by Bibi Donraadt and Linda Cobano, Maryland outshot the Cats 12-0 in the first half.
The Terrapins got on the board about six minutes into the game. Kelee Lepage hit the ball inside the circle and sent a curler past an outstretched Marcussen.
“It could have been 4-0 in the first half,” coach Tracey Fuchs said. “I thought Flo played probably the best game of her career today and really held us in the game.”
Coming off winning Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week honors for her performances against Michigan and Michigan State, Marcussen saved a season-high nine shots against the potent Maryland attack. The Netherlands native gave credit to her defense for clearing rebounds and forcing the Terrapins to shoot from tough angles.
NU did not manage a single shot until 35 minutes into the contest from redshirt freshman phenom Bente Baekers, and they didn’t earn its first corner until there was 2:29 remaining in the contest. But the Cats took advantage of the opportunity.
Mansfield took the corner and played a pass to the middle of the circle, where junior forward Lakin Barry fired a shot on net. Noelle Frost got a piece of the ball but could not make a full save. The ball snuck underneath her, and Mansfield was there to tie the game.
“I was able to just hit it in as it was slowly rolling,” Mansfield said. “Just a little scrappy goal, but it works.”
With more shots, Maryland had seven corners to NU’s two and 11 shots on goal to the Cats’ three.
The loss snapped an eight-game winning streak for NU, during which the Cats won five games over ranked opponents. NU returns to the turf against Maine in Newton, Mass., on Sunday.
Despite the crushing loss, the Cats’ spirits were not totally deflated.
“There’s like mixed emotions because obviously we want to win when we come out on our field,” Mansfield said. “But we definitely battled today. We gave it all we got to the very last second. You can’t be like mad, but it’s hard.”
The Daily Northwestern