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News for 01 December 2014

All the news for Monday 1 December 2014


Honours even with four score draws

Nothing could separate the teams as each match in the Champions Trophy second day ended in a 1-1 scoreline.


(Photo: Treebyimages)

ENG v GER 1-1 (1-0), NZL v NED 1-1 (1-0), CHN v JPN 1-1 (1-1), ARG v AUS 1-1 (0-1)

There was an unusually uniform feel to the scoreline on Day Two of the Champions Trophy in Mendoza as every match finished with a 1-1 scoreline. 

In the first match, New Zealand put in a battling performance to eke out a 1-1 draw with the Netherlands. Goals from Caia van Maasakker and Olivia Merry meant the points were shared.

At the end of the match a visibly exhausted Brooke Neal said: "We had to work so hard to get in front of the Dutch, particularly in that last quarter. Once we scored our goal we knew we would be pressured so we had to be really disciplined."

After the game, Ellen Hoog of the Netherlands said that scoring goals was something the team would work on in training: "It does not need to become a big focus, but we do need to make the most of our opportunities," she said.

The second match saw a 1-1 draw between two of the leading Asian sides, Japan and China. Mie Nakashima scored first for Japan, deflecting the ball into the net from a penalty corner and just seconds later Li Jiaq struck back for China, pouncing on a rebound after Sakiyo Asano in the Cherry Blossom's goal saved the initial shot.

Speaking after the game, China's captain Cui Qiuxia said: "Unfortunately our penalty corners were not good today and they are usually our strength. We will work on that before our next game against New Zealand."

Her counterpart, Japanese captain Miyuki Nakagawa said: "We were lacking in three areas: our passing, our possession and our defence. We were not as strong as we would like to be, but we are making steps to improvement with every game."

England and Germany both went into their game looking to win their first points of the competition. It was Germany who broke the deadlock. Kristina Hillmann knocking a bouncing ball past Maddie Hinch in the England goal.

After half-time England began to come back into the game. Marshalled by the excellent Susannah Townsend, they pushed forward and put the German team under immense pressure. The reward came when Ellie Watton scored her second goal of the tournament.

Speaking after the game, German captain Julia Muller said: "A draw was okay in thend, but it was not how we wanted to play. We were much better yesterday (against Argentina) and we wanted to start like that. We were weak." 

By contrast, England coach Danny Kerry was pleased with the progress his players are making. "We have had a good training block for three months. The players have worked hard and it is paying off."

The fourth match of the day was a feisty encounter between the world number two Australia and the home team and world number three Argentina.

Argentina started the brighter, with Carla Rebecchi, Delfina Merino and Silvina D'Elia all causing mayhem in the Australian defending end. There was an uncertainty about the Australian team that had not been evident in the previous match.

The tide changed completely in the 27th minute when a run by the ever-bright Georgia Nanscawen, allowed the Australian forwards to get behind the Argentine defence and Emily Smith was on hand to put the ball past Belen Succi in the Argentine goal.

As the clock counted down, both teams upped the pace of their game, but it was Argentina who got the breakthrough they needed. Luciana Aymar took the ball along the back line and was then on hand to put her own rebounded shot away to the delight of the crowds.

With just three minutes left on the clock, the Hockeyroos won their fourth penalty corner, but Jodie Kenny was unable to beat Succi. Seconds later, Argentina won a penalty corner. The crowd held its collective breath but the ball was saved by none other than Kenny and, like the previous three matches, the game ended in a 1-1 draw.

#CT2014 #BestofTheBest

FIH site



Smith strikes

Emily Smith goal helps Hockeyroos to 1-1 draw with hosts Argentina



The Hockeyroos remain top of Pool B at the women’s Champions Trophy after a 1-1 draw with hosts and defending champions Argentina in Mendoza.

Emily Smith’s well taken goal out of nothing shortly before half time put the world number two Australians ahead at the break, but eight-times World Player of the Year Luciana Aymar levelled with eight minutes remaining to deny the Hockeyroos all three points.

In a thoroughly absorbing contest, both sides had chances to win it late on. With five minutes remaining, Jodie Kenny was denied by an outstanding leg save from Argentina goalkeeper Belen Succi while at the other end, Kenny was also on hand to clear a last minute penalty corner from in front of goal.

Hockeyroos coach Adam Commens called it “a really promising performance by our young team against the world’s number three side in front of their home crowd.

“It was a really exciting, entertaining match. I thought both teams played well and for us everyone contributed, which is what I’d asked for after the England game. I was pleased with our defence. [Assistant Coach] Jason Duff looks after our penalty corners and he did a good job scouting them, which the players executed well.”

Looking forward to Australia’s final Pool B match against Germany, Commens added, “Our destiny is in our own hands. It’s important to go all out for the win to finish as high as we can in the pool and give ourselves the best chance in the cross-over quarter finals.”

Showing nine changes from the team that won the Commonwealth Games in August, the Hockeyroos took the game to the world number three Las Leonas in the early stages but it was the hosts that came closest to breaking the deadlock. Shortly after the start of the second quarter, Carla Rebecchi’s slap shot rebounded back off Ashlee Wells' right post and out of the danger area.

The Hockeyroos then weathered a series of three Argentinean penalty corners before Smith struck against the run of play. Georgia Nanscawen did well to intercept a clearance out of the Argentina defence, immediately playing in Kathryn Slattery on the edge of the circle. Slattery’s skill helped her evade a defender before slipping it to Smith whose low first time reverse shot caught Succi by surprise, silencing the boisterous home crowd.

Despite a goalless third quarter, Aymar threatened with a shot across the face and Australia’s Anna Flanagan put a penalty corner narrowly over the top. Kirstin Dwyer stayed calm as she then cleared a goal-bound shot with the Hockeyroos’ defence looking beaten.

Australia survived another penalty corner through good work from Ashlee Wells and Jodie Kenny but the pressure told with eight minutes remaining when Aymar struck at the second time of asking. A clever move around the back of the Hockeyroos defence found the one they call ‘La Maga’ (The Magician) and with Flanagan in close attendance she squeezed the ball inside the near post for 1-1.

The Hockeyroos showed their determination to push for a winner with Slattery testing Succi with a fierce strike before Kenny’s powerful penalty corner effort was saved.

It was the fourth match of the day that had finished 1-1 in Mendoza following draws between New Zealand and the Netherlands, Japan and China, and England and Germany. The result keeps the Hockeyroos top of Pool B, ahead of Argentina on goal difference and three points clear of England and Germany.

Tasmanian Amelia Spence missed the match with a hamstring injury.

Australia’s women face Germany in their final pool match at 3am AEDT (2am AEST / midnight AWST) on Wednesday 3 December. Their final position in Pool B will determine their opponent in Friday morning’s quarter final, which will be against one of the teams from Pool A.

The match is live on ABC in AEDT states and on delay at 3am local time in all other states. Viewers in those delayed states can also watch live via YouTube.com/fihockey.
        
Women's Champions Trophy
Mendoza, Argentina

Pool B

HOCKEYROOS: 1 (1)
Emily Smith 27 (FG)

ARGENTINA: 1 (0)
Luciana Aymar 52 (FG)

Pool Standings (after two matches)
Pool A
1. Netherlands (4 points)
2. New Zealand (4 points)
3. Japan (1 point)
4. China (1 point)
        
Pool B
1. Australia (4 points)
2. Argentina (4 points)
3. England (1 point)
4. Germany (1 point)
        
Hockeyroos Squad
Athlete (Hometown, State) caps/goals
Started
Edwina Bone (Evatt, ACT) 58/2
Anna Flanagan (Canberra, ACT) 139/32
Jodie Kenny (Wamuran, QLD) 123/70
Karri McMahon (Berri, SA) 57/6
Georgia Nanscawen (Melbourne, VIC) 142/27
Ashleigh Nelson (Wagin, WA) 165/63
Brooke Peris (Darwin, NT) 39/8
Casey Sablowski (née Eastham) (capt) (South Coast, NSW) 218/44
Kathryn Slattery (South Stirling, WA) 5/2
Emily Smith (Crookwell, NSW) 104/44
Ashlee Wells (GK) (Morwell, VIC) 38/0

Used Substitute
Teneal Attard (Mackay, QLD) 194/10
Mathilda Carmichael (Willoughby, NSW) 20/1
Kirstin Dwyer (Mackay, QLD) 60/2
Rebecca Dwyer (née Reuter) (Toowoomba, QLD) 10/0
Gabrielle Nance (Kingscliff, NSW) 5/0
 
Unused Substitute
Audrey Smith (GK) (Wynnum, QLD) 1/0
Amelia Spence (Hobart, TAS) 3/0
 
Hockeyroos’ Upcoming Fixtures
Wed 3 Dec. – Champions Trophy v Germany – 3:00am AEDT / 2:00am AEST / 00:00am AWST
Friday 5 Dec. – Champions Trophy quarter finals
Sunday 7 Dec. – Champions Trophy semi-final/playoffs
Monday 8 Dec. – Champions Trophy medal matches/playoffs

Hockey Australia media release



Honours even between England and Germany


Hollie Webb v Germany CT 2014

The spoils were shared in England's second Pool B fixture of the Champions Trophy as Danny Kerry's side were held 1–1 by Germany in an absorbing encounter.

Germany took the lead in the 22nd minute through Kristina Hillmann. However, St Albans striker Ellie Watton who was on hand yet again for England to score the equaliser in the 40th minute, her second goal in as many games this tournament.

England had the chance to take all three points when they were awarded a penalty stroke in the 57th minute. Goalkeeper Kristina Reynolds stood strong in the German goal though, saving George Twigg’s effort with an outstretched left leg.

Both teams were keen to get a win under their belts having lost their opening games of the tournament on Saturday. Lots of chances were created in an end to end, fast-paced sixty minutes of hockey. England’s Sophie Bray, Susie Gilbert and Watton looked threatening in attack, demonstrating silky stick skills. Watton combined with Bray, slipping it to her inside the circle but the No19's backhand shot was saved by Reynolds in an even opening quarter.

It was Germany who broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute. Kristina Hillmann slotted home from close range. Strong link up play down the left hand side of the pitch between Janne Müller-Wieland, Katharina Otte and Hillmann, resulted in Otte’s lifted shot at goal being tapped in on the post by Hillmann. The score remained at 1 – 0 heading into the half time break.

The start of the third quarter saw Germany go down to nine as two players were yellow carded in quick succession for mistimed tackles. Despite England being unable to capitalise on their advantage, their constant pressure on the German defence was soon rewarded. Shona McCallin’s driving run and pass fell to Watton, whose first-time finish beat Reynolds via a deflection off Hannah Gablac’s stick.

England dominated the final quarter with Joie Leigh, Lily Owsley and Laura Unsworth creating chances. A goalmouth scramble led to England calling for a video referral as a goal bound shot came off a German leg. Surbiton’s Twigg stepped up to take the resultant penalty stroke but her attempt was saved by the pads of the impressive Reynolds in the German goal, meaning both sides took home a point.

Captain Sam Quek reflected on England’s performance after the game:

"I think we started where we finished off yesterday. We were on the front foot, our momentum was good; we just didn't take our chances. I'm proud of the girls. We applied ourselves well and showed physically we are there. We had the legs and kept going to the end. We’re looking forward to the next game."

England 1 (0)
Ellie Watton 40 (FG)

Germany 1 (1)
Kristina Hillmann 22 (FG)

England Hockey Board Media release



Georgie Twigg misses late penalty stroke as England draw

England women denied opening win in Mendoza as Germany hold on for 1-1 draw in group stages

By Rod Gilmour

On this evidence, England will more than cope without their talismanic forward, Alex Danson, after Germany gamely held on for a 1-1 draw on Sunday at the Champions Trophy in Mendoza.

Danson, England's captain, will reportedly play no further part in the eight-team competition after the 29-year-old was taken to hospital on Saturday night after sustaining a head injury in their opening 2-1 defeat to Australia.

In an often frenetic game - Julia Müller, Germany’s captain, described the clash “like ping pong” - England women were denied an opening win when Georgie Twigg’s disputed penalty stroke with two minutes remaining was saved by goalkeeper Kristina Reynolds.

A lively opening saw England produce the best chances but the first half – this tournament is the first to be played under the new four, 15-minute quarter format – hinged on a disputed card to Lily Owsley.

A classy move inside England's circle saw Germany, the European champions, take the lead when Kristina Hillmann started and finished a move on baseline, tapping in from close range in the 21st minute.

England had chances to equalise when Germany were reduced to nine after two five-minute yellow cards following clumsy challenges on Sam Quek and Owsley.

They did eventually capitalise in the 40th minute, with Germany down to 10, when a forceful cross from debutant Shona McCallin into the circle saw Ellie Watton’s angled shot go in off a deflection.

Into the last quarter, England’s fitness levels were evident. Susannah Townsend shone in midfield, while Watton and Owsley – aged 25 and 19 respectively - were both lively in attack.

Owsley again showed why she has been hailed as a future force in the world game. A late run into the Germany circle was notable for its pace and power, one so lacking at this summer’s World Cup.

“Physically we’ve got the legs and we applied ourselves well after finishing strongly against Australia,” said Quek, the England defender.

England now face hosts Argentina on Tuesday evening in front of an expected 5,000 crowd at the Estadio Mendocino.

Defeat would by no means be disastrous for Danny Kerry's side. However it could mean a quarter-final encounter against the Netherlands, favourites to win Pool B.

All eyes will be on Luciana Aymar, regarded as the greatest ever player in the women's game, who is playing her last international tournament after a stellar 15-year career for Las Leonas.

Tuesday: v Argentina, 630pm

The Telegraph



Black Sticks Women draw with world champions


Georgia Barnett keeps a close eye on the ball.

A courageous all-round effort from the Black Sticks Women has ended in a 1-1 draw against world champions the Netherlands, in their second pool game at the FIH Champions Trophy in Argentina this morning.

Despite periods of sustained pressure and numerous opportunities from the Dutch, the Black Stick's defence fought hard, and up front Olivia Merry bagged her second goal of the tournament.

In the history of the women’s game, New Zealand has only beaten the Dutch twice – in 1953 and 1975 – and the young Kiwi side were gunning for a win today but instead took the point, adding to their win yesterday against Japan. 

“It was a really gutsy effort from the girls today, it would have been nice to win but we will always take a draw against the Dutch,” said captain Anita Punt.

The Dutch, who are only missing three players from this year’s World Cup winning team, had the majority of possession throughout and could easily have been further ahead had it not been for an impressive defensive effort and some incredible goal keeping from Georgia Barnett.

Barnett who only has seven test caps and is playing in her first major tournament, praised her team for their discipline in defence, “We were pretty physical and we didn't give them an inch, particularly in that last quarter.”

The Black Sticks did well to keep the Dutch scoreless in the first quarter, however in the second spell the Kiwis looked more threatening in attack. Despite that, it was just two minutes before half time when Caia van Maasakker converted a penalty corner from a powerful drag flick and the Dutch took the lead.

In almost a replay of New Zealand’s opening moments of yesterday’s fourth quarter, Merry received a pass from Pippa Hayward in the 46th minute and got a great edge to deflect it in.

From there, the game opened up and both teams hunted for the winning goal, with Barnett being called in on a number of occasions, but neither team could add to the tally.

The Kiwis will play their final pool play game against fifth ranked China at 10am (NZ time) on the 3 December. All games are live and replayed on Sky Sport – click here for the schedule.  Today’s game is replayed at 8.30am this morning.

RESULTS
Full time: 1-1
Half time: 0-1 (Dutch lead)
NZ goal scorers: Olivia Merry

Netherlands goal scorer: Caia van Maasakker

Click here for photos from today's game

Click here for video highlights from today's game

Hockey New Zealand Media release



Black Sticks earn gritty draw

By David Leggat


The New Zealand Black Sticks' Olivia Merry. Photo / Greg Bowker

New Zealand produced a fine, gritty performance to draw 1-1 with world No 1 the Netherlands at the Champions Trophy women's hockey tournament in Mendoza, Argentina today.

The Black Sticks, ranked No 4, have never beaten the Dutch and had to work overtime on defence late on as the Netherlands sought to regain the lead.

It was scoreless at quarter time but the Dutch went ahead shortly before halftime. From a penalty corner, Caia van Maasakker struck the ball firmly, low to the right of goalkeeper Georgia Barnett.

New Zealand's goal just after the start of the final quarter was a brilliant effort by Canterbury attacker Olivia Merry.

From a ball struck firmly into the circle by Pippa Hayward, Merry swivelled and struck a first time shot high into the Dutch goal.

It was Merry's second goal of the tournament.

Barnett, who has won only seven international caps, was an outstanding last line as the Dutch -- missing only three players from this year's World up-winning team, strove for the winner late on.

The Netherlands and New Zealand lead pool A with four points each. China and Japan were squaring off this morning.

New Zealand play world No 5 China in their final pool game on Wednesday morning with a great chance of making the top four playoff spots.

"It was a really gutsy effort from the girls," Black Sticks captain Anita Punt said of a New Zealand display in which much of the match was given over to stout-hearted defence.

"We'll always take a draw against the Dutch."

Punt had high praise for Barnett's work.

"It's her first major tournament. She's awesome, she did great."

China and Japan drew their pool A game 1-1, leaving the Netherlands and New Zealand clear on four points each, with China and Japan on one point going into the final round of matches on Wednesday morning.

The New Zealand Herald



Black Sticks claim courageous 1-1 draw

  
BLACK STICKS CAPTAIN: Anita Punt. WARWICK SMITH/ Fairfax NZ

The Black Sticks women's hockey team have fought back to gain a courageous 1-1 draw against world champions the Netherlands at the Champions Trophy in Argentina.

Olivia Merry's 46th minute goal in the match this morning (NZ time) cancelled out a Dutch penalty corner goal just before halftime.

The draw came after New Zealand beat Japan 2-1 in their opening match, but this was clearly a step up in terms of opposition and performance.

New Zealand produced a determined defensive effort, highlighted by some fine work from rookie goalkeeper Georgia Barnett.

Barnett, who only has seven test caps and is playing in her first major tournament, praised her team for their discipline.

"We were pretty physical and we didn't give them an inch, particularly in that last quarter," she said.

New Zealand have only beaten the Netherlands twice – in 1953 and 1975 – and gained a hard-earned point today.

The Dutch, who are only missing three players from this year's World Cup winning team, had the majority of possession throughout and could easily have been further ahead had it not been for the defensive fortitude of the Kiwis.

"It was a really gutsy effort from the girls today, it would have been nice to win but we will always take a draw against the Dutch," captain Anita Punt said.

The Black Sticks managed to keep the Dutch scoreless in the first quarter and then started to look more threatening on attack themselves.

But just two minutes before halftime Caia van Maasakker converted a penalty corner from a powerful drag flick and the Netherlands took the lead.

Merry's reply came off a slick pass from Pippa Hayward, getting a clever edge to deflect it in.

New Zealand play their final pool play game against fifth-ranked China at 10am Wednesday (NZ time).

Stuff



New rules will be game-changer: Australia coach

With less than a week left for the 2014 Champions Trophy to kickstart, defending and world champions Australia arrived in Bhubaneswar on Sunday.

Led by Eddie Ockenden, the Australian team will be aiming to put their best foot forward again to retain the title.

"It's good to be here again. Our aim is to do well and hope we will have a good tournament," Ockenden said. "When India toured Australia recently, they beat us three times. We have learnt from our mistakes and will try not to repeat them."

Australia are placed in Pool A with Belgium, England and Pakistan, and will begin their campaign against England on December 6.

Their head coach Graham Reid reckoned that the new four-quarters rule will be the game-changer in the tournament.

"As you know there are some rule changes with four quarters now and that's the game-changer in the tournament. We won the Champions Trophy in 2012, but this time we have a younger, inexperienced team. But at the same time, we are confident of doing well," he said.

Meanwhile, other teams including India and The Netherlands held rigorous training sessions on Sunday. Dutch captain Robert Horst said the team was looking forward to playing against a resurgent Indian team.

"Initially, our focus is on the pool matches, where we play Argentina, India and Germany, and all of them are strong contenders. We are looking forward to our game against India," he said.

DNA



Australians want to repeat the 2012 feat

s2h team

Bhubaneswar: The Australian team in Bhubneswar is all determined to repeat the feat of previous Champions Trophy, held two years ago in Melbourne

At Melbourne, golden goal by Kieran Govers gave Australia their fifth successive Champions Trophy title, over all 13th, as the hosts prevailed 2-1 over the Netherlands in the final.

Counting on their own history, familiarity of many team member to the venue, where they played earlier being members of Hockey India League, with a favourable weather condition, Australian captain Eddie Ockenden expects his team will repeat the feat of Melbourne, where Jamie Dwyer led team won the Gold in 2012, their 13th in the annals of Champions Trophy

Captain Eddie Ockenden said: “Today’s practice session was light and we were getting a feel of the atmosphere in Bhubaneswar.

The weather is a bit hot here, but not too hot for us and we are adapting ourselves to this weather.

Some of our players have played at this ground during the Hero Hockey Indian League, which will help us to understand the ground better.

For the last three years, we have been improving our game and we have made some steady progress in a few areas. The 2012 Champions Trophy in Australia was a great tournament for us and we want to repeat the same success here in Bhubaneswar.”

Coach Graham Reid said, “'The practice session today was on the lighter side as we landed here a few hours back and we did not want to exert the players much on the first day itself.

It was a good training session though and we are gearing-up to take on some good challenges in the championship"

Stick2Hockey.com



Physio says playing back to back is strenuous but we are ready

Tazeen Qureshy

For the success of any sports team, there lies an effort not just of the players or the coach, but of the entire support staff.

As the year as been hectic for team India after they played back to back tournaments starting from Hockey India League in January to the Australia series held last month, it has been a difficult task for Jince Thomas Mathew, the physio of the host team.

“Playing back to back matches is strenuous for the players. But it can’t be helped. So, we have to keep track of their recovery and nutrition a lot. Plus, we also need to keep in touch with the player and so that in case there is any problem at all, it comes to our notice,” he said on the sidelines of the practice.

“We have been monitoring all the players right from the start of the season and know their body well. For this tournament, everybody is fine.”

On talking about how important it is not just to maintain the physical fitness but also the right mental state he said, “We have practice offs on Sunday. So, that is the best way the players can remain a little from the field and enjoy. At times, we as the management also take them out for casual dinners so that there is no pressure on them.”

Stick2Hockey.com



Excited to play against India, says Dutch hockey skipper

BHUBANESWAR: The Netherlands hockey team skipper Robert van der Horst on Sunday said that his team is excited to play against India in the Champions Trophy starting Dec 6 at the Kalinga Stadium here.

"Initially, our focus is on the pool matches, where we play Argentina, India and Germany, as all of them are strong contenders. We are looking forward to our game against India. Matches against Argentina and Germany are also going to be tough games," the 30-year-old said.

"We try to win in every tournament that we play and in this tournament we are looking forward to competing with the several top class teams," Robert, who has played in 222 international matches, added.

Dutch chief coach Max Caldas revealed his team's strategy for the eight-nation tournament.

"Our hockey is always about attacking and scoring lot of goals - something we as a team are good at. This time we are focussing on our defence because I believe we need to be very tight in that department."

The Times of India



'Inexperienced' Australia confident of defending Champions Trophy crown

BHUBANESWAR: World and defending champions Australia arrived here on Sunday for the 2014 Champions Trophy, confident of going all the way with a team in transition.

The Kookaburras looked upbeat on their arrival. Led by the highly skilled Eddie Ockenden, Australia are aiming for an encore of 2012 when they beat The Netherlands for the title.

Speaking on the arrival, head coach Graham Reid said: "We will be playing as we do. As you know there are some rule changes with four quarters now (and 60 minutes) and that's the game changer in the tournament. With the new rule, we are working on a few things. We won the Champions Trophy in 2012, but this time we have a younger inexperienced team."

Australia, who were stunned by India 1-3 in Perth recently, open their campaign against England on December 6.

Captain Ockenden commented, "it's good to be here again. I have been here in the city for the Hockey India League before. Our aim is to do well and hope we will have a good tournament. All the opponents will give us a tough fight but we are ready for the challenge. When India toured Australia recently, they beat us three times. We have learned from our mistakes and will try not to repeat our mistakes.

Placed in Pool A, they will also battle it out against Pakistan and Belgium.

The Times of India



Coach happy with the AstroTurf in Karachi

By Nabil Tahir


Despite the poor turnout in the trials, the camp in Karachi has been beneficial for the players and the federation alike. PHOTO: FILE EXPRESS

KARACHI: Pakistan hockey team head coach and manager Shahnaz Sheikh has said that training in Karachi was better for the players as the AstroTurf at the Hockey Club of Pakistan Stadium is in excellent condition but the same cannot be said for the AstroTurf at the Naseer Bunda International Hockey Stadium, where they were previously training.

The Pakistan national hockey team trained for five months for the Asian Games at the Naseer Bunda, located in the Pakistan Sports Complex in Islamabad and Sheikh said that while it has no equal in terms of facilities, the team was forced to move due to its substandard playing surface.

“The Naseer Bunda has no comparison when it comes to facilities but the condition of the AstroTurf forced the federation to shift the training camp to the Hockey Club of Pakistan in Karachi,” Sheikh told The Express Tribune. “The surface in Karachi is in excellent condition, while we had an alternate blue AstroTurf at the Olympian Islahuddin Academy but the hockey club lacks the basic facilities a player requires.”

Sheikh, however, added that he has requested Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who is also the patron of the Pakistan Hockey Federation, to direct the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) to renovate the Naseer Bunda.

He further added that another reason for organising the camp in Karachi was to redevelop interest in hockey in the youth of Karachi as only 44 players appeared for the open trials for the national team selection.

But despite the poor turnout in the trials, the camp in Karachi has been beneficial for the players and the federation alike as the PHF has received financial grants to revive the national sport. “We are obliged to everyone who supported us for the survival of hockey in Pakistan but still we seek the government’s support,” said Sheikh. “It would go a long way in helping motivate the players and perform well for the country.”

The Express Tribune



Telkom floors Bulawayo Athletics to win seventh championship

By BRIAN YONGA


Telkom Orange players celebrate a goal against USIU-A during their National Women league match at City Park Stadium on November 1, 2014. Orange cruised to their seventh Africa Hockey Cup of Club Championship title after thrashing Bulawayo Athletics Club (BAC) 7-0 on November 30, 2014 at the Khumalo Stadium in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU |   NATION MEDIA GROUP

Champions Telkom Orange cruised to their seventh Africa Hockey Cup of Club Championship title after thrashing Bulawayo Athletics Club (BAC) 7-0 in Sunday's final at the Khumalo Stadium in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.

The victory underlined Orange’s pedigree in the event. Telkom will keep the trophy after winning it for a third successive time.

The win was a befitting honour for Orange player Betty Tioni who died early this year. Tioni scored in the team’s 2-0 win over Strathmore in the last edition in Kampala.

Hellen Chemtai and Caroline Guchu grabbed a brace on either side of half time to silence the home team.

The result was never in doubt when Orange took the lead in the 10th minute through Lillian Aura who finished off a Barbara Simiyu penalty corner.

Ten minutes later it was 2-0 as the evergreen Chemtai who has been in brilliant form in the tourney finished off Guchu’s cross, beating Bulawayo goalkeeper Christina Kondos at the near post.

GOAL FEST

The home team simply could not deal with Orange’s pace with Simiyu and Guchu pulling the strings in midfield.

The champions scored three goals in four minutes through Simiyu, Chemtai and Guchu as Orange took a 5-0 lead  going into the break.

Orange coach Jos Openda made several changes after the break bringing on Judith Apiyo and Jackline Atieno.

Kenyan international Jacqueline Mwangi continued the goal fest three minutes after the restart, sounding the boards from another Simiyu penalty corner.

The hosts had a chance at goal but Melissa Sibanda who scored their winning goal against Strathmore in the semis, fired wide with only the keeper to beat.

Guchu put the icing on the cake with her second goal of the game finishing off a well worked goal that began with nice play from the back.

Openda was delighted with his team’s performance: “The girls fully deserve the title. This is a special victory because we promised to win it for Tioni (Betty). We have honoured her memory.”

Daily Nation



Lucky Seventh win: Orange rout hosts BAC 7-0 to retain Africa Cup of Clubs title

By ELIZABETH MBURUGU in Bulawayo


Margret Rotich and Elisabeth Chacha

African hockey queens Orange Telkom routed hosts Bulawayo Athletics Club (BAC) 7-0 to successfully retain their Africa Cup of Clubs Championships trophy here at the Khumalo Stadium in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.

Digit seven seemed to be the magic number for the Kenyan girls as they scored seven goals to secure their seventh title. This was the second time in a row for the 16-time national champions to be crowned, meaning they get to keep the trophy for good.

Orange head coach Jos Openda told Feverpitch they had worked hard to achieve their objectives and dedicate their victory to the new Orange CEO Vincent Lobry and their fallen player, the late Betty Tiony.

“We have worked very hard to retained the title. We deserve it and will dedicate it to our CEO and I’m glad he gets to keep it for good. We also won it for Tiony, she was instrumental in our previous cup defence, scoring the winning goal in Kampala,” said the coach.

Openda was also full of praise for his team saying they stuck to their plans, remained focused and their efforts bore fruit. More so he lauded his defence unit for playing their hearts out.

“They all did well, my defence was superb. Caroline Guchu was the engine of the team taking charge of the midfield and playing her heart out. Tracy Nungari rose to the occasion and gave her best when we needed her most,” Openda added.

The Kenwyan girls went into the match with victory in their mind, knowing what was at stake. They began with attacks looking for early goals. Margret Rotich was close four minutes into play but her shot went above the goal.

They earned their first penalty corner in the tenth minute and international Lillian Aura was on point. She converted after it was pushed by Barbara Simiyu, stopped by Terry Juma then passed to her path by Captain Betsy Omalla.

They remained focused forcing BAC to play in their own half. Their efforts paid off in the 20th minute as veteran Hellen Chemtai tapped the ball past goalkeeper Christina Kondos.

A minute later Simiyu added a third for the reigning champions and Chemtai scored her second for the match and a seventh for the tournament in the 22nd minute.

Three minutes afterwards Guchu punished the BAC defence that let her on the loose on the left side of the circle to give Orange a 5-0 lead by the break.

In the second half, BAC looked like they were out to limit the damage and played defensively.

Experienced Jacqueline Mwangi put her name on the score sheet three minutes into the second half through a penalty corner. Guchu made it a brace in the 53rd minute to see Orange retain the title with a convincing 7-0 victory.

The country’s second representative Strathmore University Scorpions faltered in their third place play-offs to settle for fourth place. The fell 6-3 to Ghana Revenue Authority, who they had beaten 3-2 at the preliminary stage of the competition.

The Standard Online



Manolios lauds Openda coaching skills at Orange

By Elizabeth Mburugu


Jos Openda coach Telkom Orange hockey team

Mark Manolios, the Hockey Association of Zimbabwe (HAZ) president, has lauded Orange Telkom head coach Jos Openda for his excellent coaching skills.

Manolios, who once served as the Zimbabwe's men's national team coach, said that Kenya has made a mark in continental hockey through Orange. He added that after watching Orange play in the just concluded Africa hockey cup of club championships, he clearly saw the promising future of Kenyan hockey.

"He has done a fantastic job with the girls, their basic hockey skills are admirable and they are surely going places," he said.

Manolios said Openda epitomised the perfect example of hard work and determination when put to use and he has proven one doesn't have to be a full time hockey player to make a good coach.

"He is an ideal example for all aspiring coaches, he has shown all that it is possible and it can be done."

He opined that Kenya Hockey Union (KHU) made a wise decision to appoint Openda as women's national team coach.

"It was a good move if he can replicate what he has done with the club to the national team the country should expect good tidings on the continent and globally," he added.

Openda was appointed women's national team prior to the International Hockey Federation (FIH) World Series. He started on a high note helping the Kenyan girls secure an (FIH) World League Round Two berth that will take place in Montevideo, Uruguay next year.

He is a former national basketball team player, who after retiring from the sport, took over coaching at Orange.

He has led Orange to six continental titles and won 16 national titles. Orange have been dazzling in their title retention campaign.

Orange opened their continental campaign with a 7-0 thumping of Egyptian side Shams, trounced hosts Bulawayo Athletics Club 3-0, thrashed Twende of Tanzania 12-0 and prevailed 4-1 to former champions Heartlands of Nigeria. They then secured a finals slot with a 2-1 victory against bitter rival Ghana Revenue Authority.

The Standard Online



THT crush Sapura to win MHL title

By Jugjet Singh


THT players and officials celebrate after clinching the MHL title in Kuala Terengganu yesterday. Pic by Aswadi Alias

TERENGGANU Hockey Team (THT) lifted the Malaysia Hockey League (MHL) Premier Division League title in style when they hammered Sapura 9-2 in Kuala Terengganu yesterday.

THT, into their second season only, pipped eight-time League winners Kuala Lumpur Hockey club (KLHC) by three points.

Not only did KLHC lose their League title yesterday but it was double whammy when they were beaten 5-1 by UniKL.

The THT goals were scored by Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin (eighth), Fitri Saari (ninth), Faizal Saari (14th), Firhan Ashaari (15th, 49th), Ismail Abu (15th), Seo Jong Ho (16th), Sobirin Lias (30th), Firhan Ashaari (49th), and Seo Jong Ho (52nd).

The Sapura goals were scored by Faridzul Afiq (third), Khasif Ali (38th).

“Even though we are only two years old in the MHL, a solid team display has landed us our first League title and I am very proud of my players.

“Now, we will go for the Overall title as well in the knock-out stage,” said THT coach Sarjit Singh.

Both THT and KLHC are the seeded teams, while the other four teams will play among each other and the two winners will enter the semi-finals as well.

Razie Rahim of KLHC and Faizal Saari of THT ended joint-top scorers in the League with 11 goals each.

RESULTS: Terengganu 9 Sapura 2, UniKL 5 KLHC 1, Tenaga 3 Maybank 3.

New Straits Times



Dominant Terengganu lift Premier Division hockey title

By Joseph Kaos jr AND S.Ramaguru


Terengganu players and officials in jubilant mood after defeating Sapura 9-2 to lift the MHL Premier Division title. -ZABIDI TUSIN/The Star

KUALA TERENGGANU: Terengganu clinched their first Malaysian Hockey League (MHL) title in style by thrashing Sapura 9-2 in front of their home fans at the Kuala Terengganu Hockey Stadium.

The star-studded team showed their intent by snatching a 7-1 lead in the first half.

But it was Sapura who drew first blood when Faridzul Afiq scored after only three minutes.

The setback, however, failed to dampen Terengganu’s spirits as they quickly went 2-1 up with goals by Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin (eighth) and Mohd Fitri Saari (ninth).

A two-minute blitz starting from the 14th saw the home side netting four more goals through Faizal Saari, Firhan Ashaari, Ismail Abu and Seo Jong-ho.

Sobirin Lias scored goal No. 7 just before the half-time whistle.

Sapura managed to add another consolation goal as Khasif Ali converted a penalty corner in the 38th minute.

Terengganu managed to net two more goals through Firhan (49th) and Jong-ho (52nd) to seal the victory. In total, Terengganu netted a staggering 51 goals in 10 matches. They won nine matches to collect 27 points, three more than second-placed Kuala Lumpur Hockey Club (KLHC).

Terengganu coach Sarjit Singh said there was never any doubt that they would emerge as the Premier Division champions.

“The players worked hard and this title is a reward for them. I am happy to be their coach,” said Sarjit.

Terengganu Hockey Association president Datuk Wan Ahmad Nizam Wan Abdul Hamid dedicated the title to the people of Terengganu.

“It is good to see the locals supporting hockey. Hopefully more fans will realise that hockey is also a good sport, not just football,” said Wan Ahmad Nizam.

Defending champions KLHC ended their campaign on a losing note as Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) whipped them 5-1.

KLHC went into the match knowing that they had an impossible task of pipping Terengganu to the title. Terengganu were already 6-1 up in Kuala Terengganu when KLHC took to the pitch at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil.

UniKl took a two-goal lead through Dedi Aryadi (seventh) and Phillip Stahr (19th). KLHC replied in the 21st minute through defender Mohamed Razie Rahim to trail 1-2 at half-time.

UniKL added three more goals after the breather through Mohamed Haziq Shamsul (57th), Stahr (59th) and Sufi Ismat (60th) for a big win.

In another match, Tenaga Nasional drew 3-3 with winless Maybank to finish third place with 13 points.

KLHC and Terengganu are seeded in the knockout stage and will go straight into the semi-final stage. The other four teams will take part in the playoffs to decide the other two semi-finalists.

The Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) will hold an open draw tomorrow to decide the playoff fixtures. The matches will be played on a home and away format on Friday and Sunday. All matches will be held at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil.

The Star of Malaysia



KL retain MHC veterans crown

KUALA LUMPUR: Kuala Lumpur outplayed Johor 2-0 to retain the Malaysian Hockey Confederation’s (MHC) veterans tournament in Alor Setar.

In the battle for third place, Negri Sembilan edged Police 6-5.

A total of 10 teams took part in the four-day tournament at the Alor Setar Hockey Stadium.

Earlier in the semi-finals, KL scored a narrow 1-0 win over Negri Sembilan while Johor defeated Police 2-0.

The other competing teams were Perak, Kedah, Penang, Pahang, Kelantan and Selangor.

The Star of Malaysia



Surbiton close the gap to leaders East Grinstead


Surbiton's Alan Forsyth celebrates a goal against Beeston, Sept 27 2014, credit Peter Savage

Second-placed Surbiton closed the gap on leaders East Grinstead when they secured a 2-0 win at Reading in the NOW: Pensions Men’s Premier Division on Sunday.

With table-topping East Grinstead being held to a 2-2 draw by Hampstead and Westminster on Saturday evening, Surbiton took full advantage by taking a win which sees them narrow the gap to just one point.

After a goalless first period, Matt Daly and Alan Forsyth struck the crucial goals on 39 and 63 minutes to take the win.

Canterbury slumped to their tenth league defeat of the season, losing 2-0 to Beeston at home. James Gall and Richard Lawrence both struck in the first half to push their team up to third.

Cannock moved up to sixth after beating Brooklands Manchester University 2-1 away from home. Jethro Eustice and Dave Harris scored their goals.

East Grinstead dropped points for only the second time this season after being pegged back to a 2-2 draw by Hampstead and Westminster on Saturday evening.

The league leaders looked to be heading for a routine win after Ashley Jackson gave them the lead in the ninth minute and then David Condon added a second.

But Hampstead and Westminster rallied and just a minute into the second half, they pulled one back through Will Naylor and with seven minutes remaining they found an equaliser as Matt Botha guided the ball in from a penalty corner.

In the other game to take place on Saturday night, Wimbledon condemned Southgate to their seventh defeat as a brace from Declan Spencer and goals from Steven Ebbers and Johnny Kinder saw them win 4-1.

NOW: Pensions Conference East

Holcombe dropped their first points of the season as they drew 5-5 with Oxted in the NOW: Pensions Conference East.

Oxted, who started the day bottom of the league fought back from 4-0 down to secure the point.

Bromley and Beckenham beat West Herts 3-0 and goals from James Jewell and Andrew Macgregor saw Old Loughtonians to a 2-1 victory over Brighton and Hove.

Chichester Priory switched places with Cambridge City in the league by beating them 6-3. They are now third and Cambridge drop to fourth. Richard Blackley was among the goals, scoring two for Chichester.

Richmond rescued a point against Teddington with Josh Smith scoring two late goals to make it 2-2.

NOW: Pensions Conference West

Cardiff and Met are level on points with Team Bath Buccaneers at the top of the NOW: Pensions Conference West, and they proved to be inseparable when they met in a game that ended 1-1.

Tim Davenport gave Bath the lead on 12 minutes only for Luke Hawker to reply three minutes later.

A second-half onslaught saw Fareham beat Whitchurch 8-0. Ben Hibberd and Alex Boxall scored twice each.

Guildford moved ahead of Barford Tigers and into sixth place with a 5-1 win with Marcus Mahne leading the scoring with a brace.

University of Birmingham hold on to third spot with a 2-1 defeat of University of Exeter and Cheltenham played out a goalless draw with Indian Gymkhana.

NOW: Pensions Conference North

Sheffield Hallam put on a fantastic show in the second half of their game against Leek in the NOW: Pensions Conference North, hitting six goals.

After the first half had finished goalless, they came out all guns blazing after the break and Will Hearne led the scoring with two goals as they won 6-0.

But Bowdon stay top of the league after a Simon Egerton hat-trick sparked them on to a 4-1 win against University of Durham.

Doncaster played out a 3-3 draw with Olton and West Warwickshire and Loughborough Students drew 2-2 with Belper. Wakefield won the other game 3-2 against Deeside Ramblers.

NOW: Pensions Men’s Hockey League (Saturday, November 29 2014):

NOW: Pensions Men's Premier Division: Wimbledon 4, Southgate 1; East Grinstead 2, Hampstead and Westminster 2.

NOW: Pensions Men’s Hockey League (Sunday, November 30 2014):

NOW: Pensions Men's Premier Division: Canterbury 0, Beeston 2; Brooklands Manchester University 1, Cannock 2; Reading 0, Surbiton 2.

NOW: Pensions Men's Conference West: Guildford 5, Barford Tigers 1; University of Exeter 1, University of Birmingham 2; Cheltenham 0, Indian Gymkhana 0; Cardiff and Met 1, Team Bath Buccaneers 1; Fareham 8, Whitchurch 0.

NOW: Pensions Men's Conference North: Wakefield 3, Deeside Ramblers 2; Doncaster 3, Olton and West Warwickshire 3; Leek 0, Sheffield Hallam 6; Loughborough Students 2, Belper 2; University of Durham 1, Bowdon 4.

NOW: Pensions Men's Conference East: Teddington 2, Richmond 2; Brighton and Hove 1, Old Loughtonians 2; Bromley and Beckenham 3, West Herts 0; Chichester Priory Park 6, Cambridge City 3; Holcombe 5, Oxted 5.

England Hockey Board Media release



Alan Forsyth has Glenn Turner qualities with his aggression, says Surbiton coach Todd Williams

By Rod Gilmour


On the up: Leicester maintained pressure on Holcombe with 1-0 win before winter break Photo: ANDY SMITH

Todd Williams, the Surbiton coach, believes forward Alan Forsyth has the same qualities as Glenn Turner, one of Australia’s stand out players.

Forsyth, the Scottish international, notched his ninth of the season - his seventh from open play - as Surbiton beat hosts Reading 2-0 yesterday. Yet again it was the Forsyth and Matt Daly show as the latter recorded his 17th strike of a productive season, 12 of which have come from penalty corners.

“It illustrates just how good a penalty scorer Matt is and how good a natural scorer Allan is,” said Williams.

“Alan has that one touch finish that any team would love to have. Just as Glenn Turner is, he's strong and aggressive and there’s a good chance an attack will end up in the net.”

Surbiton closed the gap to one point on leaders East Grinstead after the Sussex side squandered a 2-0 lead at home to Hampstead and Westminster, the Londoners scoring twice after the break.

Wimbledon condemned Southgate to their seventh defeat as a brace from Declan Spencer and goals from Steven Ebbers and Johnny Kinder saw them win 4-1.

Cannock moved up to sixth after beating Brooklands Manchester University 2-1 away from home, with strikes from Jethro Eustice and Dave Harris.

After successive promotions on their way to the top flight in the Investec Women’s premier division, defeats for Holcombe have been a rare commodity in recent years.

The Kent side endured another loss on Saturday at home to Clifton, missing top scorer Jo Leigh to international duty, who impressed once more with a 4-1 win in the last round of matches before the winter break.

Claire Thomas fired home a brace to help Clifton beat one of the fancied teams for a play-off spot for the second time this month. Liz Sinton – whose fitness work with the team has paid huge dividends – and Els Mansell also scored in the 4-1 win which saw them go into Saturday night equal on points with leaders Surbiton.

But Surbiton made sure they headed into the break as the only team with an unbeaten record thanks to a 2-0 win away to Reading. Rebecca Herbert scored her 10th of the season to remain the league’s top scorer.

Dirkie Chamberlain helped to guide Canterbury to a 4-0 defeat of Beeston. The South African scored a brace, with contributions from Sarah Kerly and Eliza Brett.

With Surbition, Clifton and Canterbury opening up a gap at the top, the race for fourth is turning into a riveting battle.

Hannah Martin and Faye Curran both grabbed a brace of goals as the University of Birmingham powered to a 4-1 win away to Bowdon Hightown.

Nikki Laybourne scored the only goal of the game as Leicester beat Buckingham 1-0 at home. The Midlands side overtook Holcombe and remain one point behind Birmingham in fifth.

The Telegraph



Hockey player in coma after ball hits him twice in a week

by Dale Haslam

A HOCKEY player was left in a coma after getting hit in the face with the ball for the second time in a week.

Sam Owen was playing for Blackpool Hockey Club against Bolton Hockey Club when the ball smashed into his face in the first half.

The 27-year-old, who is Blackpool's team captain, complained early in the second half about feeling dizzy and was then driven the short distance to Blackpool Victoria Hospital.

Doctors decided to put Mr Owen in a coma so they could operate on him.

Yesterday, Mr Owen came out of the coma and was recovering with his loved ones at his bedside.

Bolton Hockey Club president Mark Bailey said: "It was awful to find out that this player was in an induced coma after being hit during the game.

"The thoughts of everyone associated with our club are with the player and his family."

The match was a second-team game in the North West Hockey League Division 4 North.

The league's information manager, Mike McDonagh, said: "We can confirm that Sam was injured during the game.

"Sam was hit on the side of his head and came off the pitch.

"He continued to watch the game and actually gave his team their half-time talk.

"Just after half time, he told the Blackpool spectators that he did not feel well and was starting to feel dizzy.

"They then took him direct to hospital.

"The doctors ordered x-rays and, after consultation, decided to put Sam into an induced coma for his safety. This is normal procedure.

"Sam then had an operation on Saturday night and is now awake and talking. Things look good for him.

"The league committee wish Sam an Speedy recovery."

Mr McDonagh added that, as Mr Owen had been hit by a ball week earlier, his fellow players and club officials did not know if his dizziness was as a result of the latest strike or the previous one.

Only days earlier, Mr Owen had commented on Twitter about the tragic death of Australian cricket Phil Hughes, who was hit by a ball during a cricket match.

On Saturday, an Israeli cricket umpire died after being hit in the neck by a ball.

The Bolton News

The FIH recommended Sports Concussion Assessment Tool for athletes can be found here http://www.fih.ch/files/Sport/Medical/concussion%20assesment%20athletes.pdf.

This document is over 10 years old so it is amazing that it is not more prominently available or that it has not been more widely adopted. Had the guidelines been adopted more formally it is quite probable that Sam Owen would not have been playing.

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