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News for 21 May 2018

All the news for Monday 21 May 2018


2018 Pioneer Energy Tri-Nations Women's International Hockey - Day 3
Cromwell (NZL)

JPN v AUS (RR)     1 - 4

Pool standings

Rank Team Played Wins Draws Losses Goals For Goals Against Goal Difference Points
1 Australia 2 2 0 0 8 2 6 6
2 Japan 2 1 0 1 3 5 -2 3
3 New Zealand 2 0 0 2 2 6 -4 0


FIH Match Centre



Hockeyroos Pull Clear With Second Tri Nations Win

Ben Somerford


Renee Taylor celebrated her 50th cap with the final goal

The Hockeyroos have moved three points clear at the top of the Tri Nations table after recording their second straight 4-1 win over Japan in Cromwell, New Zealand, on Monday.

Australia, who defeated hosts New Zealand 4-1 on Sunday, were too strong for the Japanese, moving to six points from two games ahead of Tuesday’s rest day.

Rosie Malone, who was elevated to the Hockeyroos squad last week, scored her maiden international goal in the first minute, but Japan levelled before quarter-time.

Similar to Sunday’s win, Australia restored their lead just before half-time through Kalindi Commerford before second-half goals from Brooke Peris and 50-gamer Renee Taylor sealed the win.

Australia are next in action on Wednesday against the Black Sticks from 2.30pm AEST.

Gold Coast product Malone opened the scoring in the first minute to give the Hockeyroos the perfect start but Japan equalised from a 14th minute penalty corner through Shihori Oikawa.

Commerford, who also scored on Sunday, netted to make it 2-1 on the stroke of half-time.

The Hockeyroos were ruthless after the break, with Peris (32’) and Taylor (36’) both netting from penalty corners in quick succession to seal an emphatic win.

Australia have six points from two games, sitting clear of Japan (three points) and New Zealand (zero points). Japan and New Zealand meet on Tuesday.

Australia 4 (Malone 1’, Commerford 30’, Peris 32’, Taylor 36’)
Japan 1 (Oikawa 14’)

Hockey Australia media release



Region's first tri-nations international women's hockey tournament won't be the last

JO MCKENZIE-MCLEAN


The Pioneer Energy Women's International Hockey Tri Nations captains at the official welcome to Cromwell at Highlands Motorsport Park on Friday night. Natsuki Naito, of Japan, Ella Gunson, of the Vantage Black Sticks and Emily Smith, of Australia. Jo McKenzie-McLean

Cromwell's first international hockey test series would put Central Otago on the international stage, the mayor told the tri-nations teams at an official welcome.

The Vantage Black Sticks, Australia and Japan women's hockey teams were welcomed to Cromwell on Friday at Highlands Motorsport Park ahead of the Pioneer Energy Tri Nations Women's International Hockey Series.

Cromwell College principal Mason Stretch led the Kapa Haka before speeches were delivered and the teams responded with their own Maori song.

Central Otago mayor Tim Cadogan said the tournament meant "the world" to the region.

"Literally, the world has come to us in an international sporting event and I think outside of of curling in the Maniototo which is part of our district, this is the first time we have had an international test series in Central Otago. It has brought the world to us and you are going to allow us to tell the world that Queenstown International Airport is only 40 minutes away from our world of difference, the best pinot noir in the world, the best cherries, possibly the best people...It is fantastic to have you here."

The multi-million dollar facility had been 20 years of hard work and dedication to get completed, he said.

"These things do not happen in isolation."

Sports Turf Trust chairman Michael Paardekooper, who with Terry Emmitt, was one of the driving forces behind the facility, said it was fantastic to host the international players.

"There has been a huge amount of effort put in by a lot of people to get to this point. The whole of Central Otago is looking forward to see some exciting, fast and fun hockey."

He had felt emotional when the Australian players first arrived at the turf and went on to inspect it, he said.

"They loved the turf and were really impressed."

Central Otago Hockey Association president Robin Pimm thanked the international players on behalf of the 980 hockey players in the region.

"We started off pretty small but growing pretty fast lately in hockey. We range from Queenstown to Wanaka through to Alexandra and Ranfurly so we have a lot of people, who travel a lot of miles to come to Cromwell to play hockey. This would not have been possible without the work and effort gone in by the Central Otago Sports Turf Trust."

Black Sticks captain Ella Gunson thanked the town for the warm welcome.

"We feel very lucky to be down in Cromwell. There hasn't been a tour to the South Island for a little while now and this is our first time in Cromwell. We feel very honoured to be here. It is a beautiful spot and we are being very well looked after ...Everything is top-notch."

The tournament was great to enable playing tough teams in preparation for the World Cup later in the year, she said.

Matches for the rest of the week:

Monday, 6.30pm Australia v Japan; Tuesday, 6.30pm Black Sticks v Japan; Wednesday, 6.30pm Black Sticks v Australia; Thursday, 6.30pm Australia v Japan; Saturday, 4,30pm Playoff for final; Sunday, 2.30pm final.

Stuff



South Korea beat India in Women's Asian Championship Trophy


Indian Women's Hockey Team , Twitter @TheHockeyIndia

Defending Champions India lost to hosts South Korea 0-1 in the final match of the fifth Women's Asian Champions Trophy on Sunday.

The match saw South Korea keep a resolute defence and score the only goal of the match in the 24th minute when Youngsil Lee found the back of the net.

India's defence was tested in the early stages of the match as South Korea started the game well, winning possession in the midfield and putting pressure on the Indian defence.However, India defended their lines well as they tried to attack the hosts on the counter in what was a well-matched first quarter for both the teams.

South Korea had the better chances in the first period but the teams ended the first quarter goal-less as neither team managed to find an opening.

The second quarter saw the hosts put constant pressure on the Indians as they won three penalty corners in the span of two minutes, but Indian goalkeeper Savita made sure that she made some reflex saves to deny the hosts of taking an important lead.

It was a phase in the match where South Korea dominated as they looked for an opening and they succeeded in the 24th minute when they caught India's defence on the counter-attack.

Mi Hyun Park made a darting run towards the baseline on the right flank and passed the ball across the Indian goal, which was deflected into the back of the net by Youngsil Lee to give her team the lead.

India struggled to build momentum after going behind as the hosts took their one-goal lead into the half-time break.

The onus was on the Indian team to find the equaliser as they looked to defend their crown against the hosts.

However, South Korea made sure that they did not let the Indian attackers find space inside their striking circle.

The hosts sat back in their own half for most of the match, and looked to hit India on the counter which saw the Koreans find another chance in the 43rd minute when Mi Hyun

Park found herself one-on-one with an Indian defender inside the striking circle, but her shot was saved by Savita.

Korea had another chance to extend their lead in the 44th minute as they won their fourth penalty corner of the match, but Savita's heroics continued as she parried away the shot to keep India in the match.

It was down to the Indian team to take the initiative in the last quarter as Korea sat deep in their own half and invited India to play long balls.

It was a move that favoured the Koreans as they defended their flanks well, and did not allow the Indian attackers to find possession in the final third of the pitch.

It was a tense final few minutes for both the sides as India looked to score the equaliser but Korea had their eyes set on the title.

Owing to the need of a goal, India replaced their goalkeeper Savita with an outfield player and tried to up their ante, but South Korea's man-marking in midfield made sure that they kept their lead intact as India failed to create a goal-scoring opportunity in the latter stages of the match.

The win for South Korea saw them lift the title for the third time after having won in the 2010 and 2011 editions of the tournaments.

Whereas, India finished runners-up for the second time after having lost in the final of the 2013 edition to Japan.

A strong performance from the Indian team's attackers saw forward Vandana Katariya being declared as the player of the tournament while youngster Lalremsiami was given the award for the upcoming player of the tournament.

Forward Navneet Kaur and Vandana Katariya were also the joint top-scorers of the tournament along with China's Xiaoming Song.

Daily News & Analysis



S Korea beat India to win in Asian Champions Trophy


Savita Punia

South Korea pipped India 1-0 to win the fifth Women’s Asian Champions Trophy at the Sunrise Stadium today.

The match saw South Korea keep a resolute defence and score the only goal of the match in the 24th minute when Youngsil Lee found the back of the net. India defended their lines well as they tried to attack the hosts on the counter in what was a well-matched first quarter. South Korea had the better chances in the first quarter, but it ended goalless.

The second quarter saw the hosts put constant pressure on the Indians as they won three penalty corners in a span of two minutes, but goalkeeper Savita Punia made some reflex saves to thwart the hosts. South Korea succeeded in the 24th minute when they tripped the Indian defence on the counterattack.

Mi Hyun Park made a darting run towards the baseline on the right flank and passed the ball across the Indian goal, and Youngsil Lee deflected it into the back of the net. India struggled to build momentum after going behind as the hosts took their one-goal lead into the halftime break.

The onus was on the Indian team to find the equaliser as they looked to defend their crown against the hosts. The hosts sat back in their own half for most of the match and looked to hit India on the counter, which saw the Koreans find another chance in the 43rd minute when Mi Hyun Park found herself one-on-one with an Indian defender inside the striking circle. But her shot was saved by Savita.

Korea had another chance to extend the lead in the 44th minute as they won their fourth penalty corner but Savita parried away the ball. In the last quarter, Korea sat deep in their own half and invited India to play long balls. This favoured the Koreans as they defended their flanks well and did not allow the Indian attackers to get possession upfront.

It was a tense final few minutes for both the sides as India looked to score the equaliser but Korea had their eyes set on the title. Badly needing a goal, India replaced goalkeeper Savita with an outfield player and tried to up their ante. However, South Korea’s man-marking in midfield made sure that they kept their lead intact as India failed to score a goal in the latter stages.

South Korea, thus, won the title for the third time after 2010 and 2011. India finished runners-up for the second time after having lost in the final to Japan in 2013.

The Tribune



Stats Speak: Indian ladies have won 18 Gold medals in 101 tourneys in history

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

Indian women hockey team’s debut in international hockey was in 1953 in the Folkstone invitation tourney. Since then Indian eves have entered 28 finals including loss against Korea in Donghae City on last Sunday.  Asia Cup (2017) Champions India has to win Gold medal in Jakarta Asian Games (Aug 18-Sep 2, 2018) for entry in 2020 Olympics. Here are statistical highlights of Indian women hockey since inception:

Indian eves in Gold Medal matches (1953-May 2018)
A: Tournaments Wise:

Category

Tournaments

Played

Gold

Medal

Silver

Medal

Goals

For

Goals

Against

Remark

IOC/FIH Tourneys(29 tournaments)

 

World League-Tier 3(R2)

3

3*

0

6

4

*1-rr,1-so

Olympic Qualifier

1

0

1

1

3

 

Champions Challenge II

1

1

0

6

3

 

Continental  Tourneys(30)

 

Commonwealth Games

2

1*

1

3

3

*1-gg

Asian Games

2

1*

1

6

3

*1-rr

Asia Cup

4

2*

2

7

9

*1-so

Asian Champions Trophy

3

1

2

2

3

 

Afro Asian Games

1

1*

0

1

1

*1-so

South Asian Games

1

1

0

10

0

 

Invitations Tourneys(42)

Indira Gandhi Intl. Gold Cup

4

1*

3#

6

9

*1-rr,#1-so

Home

3

3*

0

2

1

*2-rr

Away

3

3

0

7

2

 

Grand Total

28

18

10

57

41

 

 

India

versus

Final

Played

Won

Lost

Goals

For

Goals

Against

Remark

South Korea

6

2

4

11

8

1-rr

Japan

4

3

1

5

4

1-rr

China

3

2

1

6

7

1-so

Australia

2

0

2

2

3

1-so

England

2

2

0

5

3

1-gg

USSR

2

1

1

4

6

1-rr

South Africa

2

1

1

2

4

1-so

Germany

1

1

0

0

0

1-rr

Chile

1

1

0

1

1

1-so

Uzbekistan

1

1

0

1

1

1-rr

Azerbaijan

1

1

0

1

0

 

Belgium

1

1

0

6

3

 

Poland

1

1

0

3

1

 

Sri Lanka

1

1

0

10

0

 

Grand Total

28

18

10

57

41

 

 Abbreviation: rr=round robin, so=shoot out, gg=golden goal.

Fieldhockey.com



Malaysian women narrow gap in Asia

By Jugjet Singh

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian women's hockey team finished fourth in the Asian Champions Trophy in Donghae, SOuth Korea, yesterday.

Coach K. Dharmaraj's charges lost to world No 8 China 2-0 in the bronze battle, but gained much for the future.

China took the lead in the 14th minute and then when Malaysia were down one player due to a yellow card infringement, they increased the lead in the 53rd minute.

"There is nothing to be ashamed of but everything to be proud of because we played against World Cup teams in Donghae, except for Japan who did not bring their best," said Dharmaraj.

Five teams played in Donghae, and only Malaysia were the odd one out as they did not qualify for the World Cup in England on July 21-Aug 5.

"Considering that we played against teams who are preparing for the World Cup, I believe my charges did not disappoint the nation by finishing fourth.

"My charges paced China all the way until we were down one player when Amirah (Nur Amirah Shakirah) was flashed the yellow card and satout for five minutes.

"That is when China took advantage and scored their second goal while we could not go forward to find the equalsier.

"We have learnt much from this tournament and I believe we will trouble all these teams again in the Asian Games (in Jakarta)," said Dharmaraj.

The Malaysian women lost narrowly in Donghae and beat Japan 3-2 in the pool.

The had lost to India (3-2), South Korea (3-1) and China (3-1) earlier.

Hosts South Korea beat India 1-0 for the gold medal.

Jugjet's World of Field Hockey



Our women’s team miss out on ACT bronze to China

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian women’s hockey team missed out on the bronze medal in the Asian Champions Trophy (ACT) after failing to repeat their 2013 heroics against China.

The team fell 0-2 to China in the bronze medal playoff thanks to a brace from Song Xiaoming, who scored from a penalty corner (15th minute) and a field goal (53rd) at the Sunrise Stadium in Donghae, South Korea, yesterday.

Malaysia beat China 3-1 to finish third in the 2013 ACT in Japan but their fourth-place finish this time is an improvement from their fifth-place finish in the 2016 ACT in Singapore.

The team nicknamed the Tigress, ranked 22nd in the world and fifth in Asia, had earlier lost their group stage match 1-3 to China, who are ranked eight in the world and second in Asia.

Team coach K. Dharmaraj said the team improved in every game and he was proud of the players’ fighting spirit.

“Overall there was a marked improvement in their performances and I for one am glad to see the fighting spirit in them,” said Dharmaraj yesterday.

“We were observing our opponents and trying to find weaknesses we could exploit in every game.

“We were a bit unlucky to concede that first goal a minute before the first quarter ended. However we didn’t give up and continued to play hard despite Amirah (Shakirah Zulkifli) getting a yellow card and sitting out for 10 minutes.

“All these teams are the full World Cup squad and we gave them a run for their money, so I’m proud of the team’s performance.”

The team started their campaign with defeats by South Korea (1-3) and China (1-3) in their opening two matches before bouncing back to stun Japan 3-2.

They were edged 2-3 by India in the last group match but it was enough for them to finish fourth ahead of Japan in the five-team group and advance to the bronze medal match play-off.

Dharmaraj took a massive gamble for this tournament by dropping seniors Siti Rahmah Othman, Norbaini Hashim, Fazilla Sylvester Silin and Norazlin Sumantri.

In their place, he roped in players from the national Under-17 side and the five-a-side bronze medal winning team at the Youth Olympic qualifiers last month.

The newbies Nur Maizatulhanim Syafi Sheik Fuad and Nor Asfarina Isahyifika Isahhiddun plus national team returnees Nurul Syafiqa Mat Isa and Nur Zafirah Aziz, proved their mettle in Donghae.

Dharmaraj, a former Olympian, the next task is to prepare for the Asian Games in Indonesia from Aug 18-Sept 2.

The Star of Malaysia



Ireland secure first hockey series win over Germany

Goals from O’Donoghue and Nelson clinch 2-1 victory after draw in opening encounter

Stephen Findlater


Conor Harte challenges Germany’s Johannes Grobe during Ireland’s 2-1 victory at Pembroke Wanderers Hockey Club in Dublin. Photograph: Gary Carr/Inpho

Ireland’s men started their summer campaign with a bang on Saturday as early second-half goals from Shane O’Donoghue and Matthew Nelson saw them beat world number five side Germany 2-1 at Serpentine Avenue.

In so doing, it completed a first ever series win over the Olympic bronze medallists, giving the side a boost as preparations for November’s World Cup begin in earnest.

The Germans had dominated the first half but only had a Timm Herzbruch goal to show for their efforts. But a switch from a zonal to man-to-man line-up paid instant dividends with Jeremy Duncan laying on the pass for O’Donoghue to touch in for 1-1.

Two minutes later, Conor Harte picked out Nelson who unleashed a cracking reverse-stick shot. Thereafter, Ireland protected their circle well before fending off two last-minute penalty corners for the victory.

In addition to Friday’s 1-1 draw at the same venue, it gave the team another notable scalp. Importantly, they did it without their leading light David Harte who was on club duty, winning the Dutch title for a second time with SV Kampong on Sunday evening.

In his absence, both Jamie Carr and David Fitzgerald had strong games between the posts. John Jackson and Mitch Darling both returned after long absences in the wake of the Olympics to play in the series, rejoining the panel in the build-up to the World Cup.

Reflecting on the team’s work, coach Craig Fulton said afterwards: “Honestly, I am not too worried about the result but we looked at this weekend as eight quarters with different objectives in each of them to try and nail them.

“We didn’t do it all but that gives us something to work on. It’s been a really long club league season; to come in, train and then go into back-to-back games against Germany was a good performance.”

Senior international Test match: Ireland 2 (S O’Donoghue, M Nelson) Germany 1 (T Herzbruch)

The Irish Times



U.S. Women's National Development Squad Takes Game 1 of Chile Test Series



SANTIAGO, Chile - The U.S. Women's National Development Squad opened their series against Chile on Saturday, May 19 with a hard fought victory at the Club Manquehue in Santiago, Chile. From the first whistle the team played on their front foot and early turnovers deep into Chile's half set the tone for the game.

“This was an encouraging start to the tour,” said Mark Atherton, U.S. Women's National Development Squad Assistant Coach. “Our work rate was excellent from first to last whistle, we were organized, pressed well and created a number of good opportunities. We go again Sunday afternoon and will expect another tough contest, so we will need to make more of our chances.”

USA's first opportunity of the match came in the fifth minute, with the award of a penalty corner. Kelly Marks (Elverson, Pa.) got her strike away, but Chile's goalkeeper reacted swiftly, deflecting it behind for a long corner. Shortly after, high pressure from Erin McCrudden (Yorktown Heights, N.Y.) led to a turnover just outside the circle. Danielle Grega (Kingston, Pa.) was quick to step out and make the intercept, before shooting just wide of the left post. The home nation’s first sight of goal came midway through the first quarter. A ball from the right side was played into a melee of bodies in the circle as goalkeeper Carrera Lucas (Brooklandville, Md.) was called into action, sliding out to make the initial save with her pads. The ball then pin-balled around the circle before spilling out to Chile's attacker, whose backhand shot was closed down bravely by Anna Dessoye (Mountaintop, Pa.).

The USWDT ultimately broke the deadlock midway through the second quarter via a penalty corner opportunity in the 26th minute. Alexandra Hammel (Duxbury, Mass.) delivered the ball with precision from the top of the circle back to Dessoye, who deflected at full stretch on her backhand to get past the despairing dive of Chile's goalkeeper to make it 1-0. The momentum would follow USA into the second half. In the 42nd minute, Hammel found Alyssa Parker (Woodbine, Md.) on the right baseline from a long corner. Parker shook off her defender on the play to enter the circle before she delivered a dangerous ball across the goal. Despite the execution, the ball bobbled agonizingly over two USA sticks before exiting the play.

Moments after the chance by USA, a dangerous turnover in the middle of the field led to a Chile counter attack. Three USA defenders were drawn to the ball releasing a free player on the left of the circle, but a loose first touch made for a far harder angle of shot as goalkeeper Jess Jecko (Sauquoit, N.Y.), who stepped into net halftime to replace Lucas, stepped into action. Jecko made the save with her left foot and was quick to get back to her feet to complete a double stop, this time a split-save down low to her left from the rebound, to keep the game at 1-0.

As Chile looked to stretch the field towards the end of the third quarter, USA found themselves under increasing pressure and worked hard to regain lost possession and disrupt counter attacks. The team had captain Kasey Tapman (Annapolis, Md.) to thank on more than one occasion as she managed numbers on counter attacks, getting stick to ball and allowing time for her colleagues to get back and support. Deep into the third frame the defense held firm while Jecko was again in good position to prevent a sweep from the left of the circle from finding the goal, with defender Casey Umstead (Green Lane, Pa.) tidying up the rebound and releasing Dessoye for a quick counter attack. Her 50-yard supporting run was almost rewarded with another scoring opportunity, but the ball broke just behind her as she approached the circle.

At the start of the final period, McCrudden found Grega on a long corner attempt, but her backhand shot was closed down. Both teams toiled hard to create opportunities in front of goal, but it was the red, white and blue who enjoyed the better chances as the game came towards its conclusion. With two minutes remaining, USA developed one final scoring chance. The team was unlucky on the play as Grega redirected the ball into the goal on her knees, after Hammel’s initial sweep on a penalty corner had been saved. Despite the play, the whistle had been blown for an earlier infringement and a corner was re-awarded, followed immediately by the final whistle. Hammel’s delivery on the final play of the game found Dessoye at the left post, but Chile's goalkeeper was equal to it this time, sliding out to make the save, with a defender clearing off of her pads.

“We worked hard for each other out there today," commented Tapman, pleased about the team's performance. "Tomorrow we will look to play with more tempo in possession and limit the amount of turnovers. We will also look to put them under early pressure again and build upon today’s result.”

The U.S. Women's National Development Squad is back on the field on Sunday, May 20 at 4 p.m. ET. This game can be watched through the provided livestream by clicking here.

USFHA media release



Coaches corner: Italy ready to take on the world


Italy Coach Roberto Carta is looking forward to challenging the world's best Photo: Italian Hockey Federation

In this week's Coaches Corner, we meet a man who sees virtue in making mistakes, so long as the players learn from the experience.

A David and Goliath scenario pitting the highest against the lowest ranked team is just one of the many intriguing encounters we can look forward to at the Vitality Women’s Hockey World Cup, London.

Italy women start their Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup London 2018 campaign with a tough fixture against China (FIH Hero World Ranking: 8). They will then play another Asia giant, Korea (WR:9) before the toughest challenge of them all – an encounter with the world number one team and reigning World Cup champions, the Netherlands.

For Italy (WR:17), this is their first appearance at a World Cup since 1976, when they finished in 10th place but, as anyone who saw them compete at the 2017 FINTRO Hockey World League Semi-Finals in Brussels will testify, this is a team that has definitely earned its place among the world’s elite.

For Coach Roberto Carta, competing at the World Cup is another opportunity for this ambitious hockey team to progress and grow.

“The players are immensely proud to put on the national shirt and represent their country,” he says. “When they competed at the Hockey World League Semi-Finals, they were really appreciated for their style of play and skills. They want to keep improving their play with each competition. We are aiming to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, so the World Cup is another chance to learn how to play against the best sides in the world.”

Over the past few months the team has been ramping up its preparations. Unlike many of the sides they will face in London, Italy does not run a centralised programme so the players have been doing a lot of their training on their own or in clusters. But for the three months leading up to July, the preparations – physical, tactical and psychological – will become more intense and, by the start of the competition, says Carta, the team will be 100 per cent ready for the challenge ahead.

"Every match can be seen as a victory whether you win or lose, so long as you have learnt from it."
Roberto Carta, Italy Head Coach

Preparations in the lead-up to the World Cup will include a number of international matches against Scotland, Russia, France, Germany, Ireland and Argentina.

International competition against these teams is vital, says Carta. He knows that the World Cup will see his team playing top 10-ranked sides that have much more high level playing experience.

Any opportunity to play against other nations, and experience different styles of play is vital if Italy are to hold their own.

The final practice match, in London, will pit Carta’s team against Japan. This will give his side valuable experience of playing at the iconic venue. It also allows his players to pit their style of play against the distinctive Asian style of play, ahead of their opening matches against China and Korea.

The Italian coach takes a very pragmatic approach to his team’s performances. He believes that every experience – good or bad – provides an opportunity to learn and progress, so long as players recognise and address any mistakes that are made.

“The preparation matches in the next few months are very important because they will be very tough. We will make lots of mistakes but the important thing is that we learn from those mistakes. Every match can be seen as a victory whether you win or lose, so long as you have learnt from it. For me, making a mistake means finding a solution to ensure the same error is never made again.”

In an event situation, this approach works well. It means a team can improve as the tournament progresses, ironing out problems and finding solutions along the way.

Does this mean his team, with two pool matches under their belt, will prove a threat to the Netherlands? “There is no such thing as perfection and every team can be beaten,” is Carta’s defiant reply.

#HWC2018

FIH site



Surbiton 4-0 UCD Ladies HC



Surbiton ensured they ended their EuroHockey Women's Club Cup campaign with a victory as they beat UCD Ladies HC 4-0 at Sugden Road.

Giselle Ansley, Georgie Twigg, Hannah Martin and Beckie Middleton were all on target to secure the win for the tournament hosts.

The sides had been well matched with the scores level at half-time before a rousing second half display for Surbiton surge to victory.

There were few chances created in the opening quarter with the best opportunity falling to UCD captain Deirdre Duke but her shot flashed wide of the far post.

The contest opened up slightly in the second quarter with both teams beginning to make more regular circle penetrations. Surbiton cleared well off the line before going close themselves before the half-time break through Holly Payne's looping shot. 

Surbiton came out with real determination in the second half piling on the pressure immediately. On 35 minutes they took the lead from a penalty corner as Ansley's flick found it's way into the net.

The lead was doubled four minutes later from another penalty corner. A well worked move saw the ball returned to the injector who squared to Twigg to convert from close range.

In the final quarter Surbiton extended their lead further as Martin found space before unleashing a fierce back hand shot into the corner. In the final minute and with UCD electing for a kicking back, Middleton was able to pass into an empty net to wrap up the win and ensure the hosts ended the tournament in positive fashion.

Surbiton 4 (0)

Ansley 35'
Twigg 39'
Martin 56'
Middleton 59'

UCD Ladies HC 0 (0)

England Hockey Board Media release



Surbiton’s Beckie Middleton signs off in style

By The Hockey Paper



Surbiton greats Beckie Middleton and Sarah Page finished their careers with the club with a 4-0 win over University College Dublin as Brett Garrard’s side finished a disappointing seventh in the EuroHockey Club Cup as hosts.

Middleton scored with the last touch of the game as she rolled into an empty net to spark united celebrations at Sugden Road after a trying opening to the competition.

Earlier, Giselle Ansley broke the deadlock with a 35th minute penalty corner, Georgie Twigg scored four minutes later from another PC, before Hannah Martin scored four minutes from time. Middleton’s tap in added gloss.

But defeat to Campo on Thursday and then a bruising shoot-out loss to Victorya Smolevichi of Belarus had left Surbiton battling for the minor places.

Their seventh place finish – they were hoping to be in the mix for a top four placing – will also likely see Surbiton handed a tough draw for next year’s European Cup.

It is likely that Surbiton will also be considerably weaker when the Pro League launches from January, though the dates for next year’s European showpiece have yet to be confirmed.

Middleton joined Surbiton in 2013 from Dutch club Pinoké, having played for Leicester against Surbiton in the Investec Cup quarter-final in 2010.

Page joined Surbiton a year earlier after four years at the University of Birmingham and was a member of Birmingham’s Investec Cup winning squad in 2012.

Final positions:

1 – Den Bosch
2 – UHC Hamburg
3 – Club Campo De Madrid
4 – AH&BC Amsterdam
5 – Mannheimer HC
6 – Victorya Smolevichi
7 – Surbiton
8 – UCD

The Hockey Paper



UCD fall to four second half goals from hosts Surbiton



Four second half goals from Surbiton’s England internationals condemned UCD to eighth place from the EuroHockey Club Cup in London.

The outcome, though, does not look likely to see Ireland relegated from the top tier. Russia are the only side who can move ahead in the national rankings but Krylatskoye are unlikely to win in Dublin, meaning one spot in the Cup will remain while Monkstown’s win on Saturday means a Trophy place is also in a strong position.

Despite the absence of Lena Tice – who sustained an injury in Friday’s game against Mannheimer HC – the students gave as good as they got with Deirdre Duke fired inches wide while Katie Mullan saw a drag-flick saved by Abi Walker.

But Surbiton got their noses in front in the 35th minute from a corner. It was given in bizarre circumstances with both sides seemingly stopping as the ball ricocheted off a number of feet.

After some confusion, a corner for the home club was finally given which Giselle Ansley slapped at goal, drawing a touch from the number two runner which wrong-footed the impressive Clodagh Cassin.

Anoter Mullan drag was palmed away by Walker before, on 39 minutes, Surbiton moved out of range. A stroke was initially awarded but was correctly downgraded to a corner for a foot with the ball travelling a couple of feet wide of goal.

The set piece, though, was well worked back to the injector and then into the centre where Georgie Twigg touched in. Cassin tipped wide another Ansley drag but Hannah Martin’s fine reverse stretched the lead out to three with four minutes to go and Beckie Middleton’s finish into an unguarded net in the last minute closed out the scoring.

Women’s EuroHockey Club Cup, seventh place playoff
UCD 0
Surbiton 4 (G Ansley, G Twigg, H Martin, B Middleton)

The Hook



Town keep Junior at bay for long periods to confirm Irish place in Trophy for 2019


Liz Murphy was once again in impressive form. Pic: Gerry/gpfoto.ie

Anna Gil’s two penalty corner rebounds settled Pool B in the favour of Junior FC, marking their third successive win, but they were made to work all the way by hosts Monkstown.

And the losing bonus point was enough to confirm safety in the second tier in the competition without relying on a later result from the match between Lille and Krylatskoye.

Gil struck in the 10th minute from their second corner after an initial save by the excellent Liz Murphy saw the ball bounced off her pads and scrambled over the line.

Junior captain Carlota Petchame was showing some lovely touches but the Town defence, marshalled by Christine Quinlan and Natalie Esteves, again showed great composure in possession.

Sophie Moore almost stole in for an equaliser three minutes into the second half with Meritxell Grau called on to make a near post stop.

But Junior were always the more dangerous with Murphy brilliantly smothering a shot and Esteves volleying clear another sharp chance, keeping a minimum in the difference.

Paz Codina was next to be blocked by Murphy with a cracking close range shot met with a big palm. The pressure eventually told in the final few minutes when Gil scored an identical goal from a rebound.

The losing bonus point, though, meant Monkstown were guaranteed safety and there was an outside chance – if Lille won by three goals – that they could sneak into second place.

Those hopes were boosted when the French side led three times, first via Juliette Hannebicque-Leman in the sixth minute and then again via Marine Delannoy in the 12th, making it 2-1 in answer to a Krylatskoye goal from Iuliia Kazakova.

Alexandra Leonova levelled for a second time but Hye Lyoung Han’s second goal of the tournament put Lille in front yet again in the second half.

But they could not hold on and Ekaterina Shaburova scored for 3-3 and then Alena Digalieva netted the winner from a corner on 45 minutes.

The results from day three mean Holcombe face Junior FC in the final, MSC Sumchanka will battle CSP Krylatskoye for bronze while Monkstown meet Ritm Grodno for fifth. The seventh place playoff pits Slavia Prague against Lille.

Women’s EuroHockey Club Trophy
Pool B: Monkstown 0
Junior FC 2 (A Gil 2)

The Hook



Club Euro final for Grange and all Scots final day clash at Peffermill



Grange men booked a place in the Men’s EuroHockey Club Trophy final with a tremendous 3-2 win over Minsk. Clydesdale Western and Edinburgh University were both held to goalless draws in Women’s Club Challenge I and will play each other in tomorrow’s last day of competition.

Minsk 2-3 Grange

Grange won a feisty contest with Minsk through a late Dominac Wild winner in Men’s EuroHockey Club Trophy. Grange secured top spot in Pool A, and a spot in the final against Vinnitsa, in the contest held in Vienna.

The opening goal came right at the start of the second quarter and it was Michael McKenzie who struck from a penalty corner to make it 1-0.

Then came a red card for Minsk when Aliaksandr Korsik was given his marching orders at the end of the second quarter.

It was towards the end of the third quarter when Tsimur Tsimashkou equalised for Minsk.

At the start of the fourth Luke Cranney scored to regain the lead for Grange before Aliaksandr Hancharou provided another equaliser to make it 2-2.

Dominic Wild struck the vital winner for Grange with just minutes remaining from a penalty corner and give the Scots a great victory.

Pisa 0-0 Clydesdale Western

Clydesdale Western were held to a 0-0 draw in their third Pool match of Women’s Club Challenge I at Peffermill, securing second spot in Pool B.

Towards the end of the first quarter it was Clydesadle Western who piled on the pressure. First a great break down the right set up Millie Steiger, but neither she nor Zara Mason could force the ball home

Then a penalty corner routine was deflected goal ward by Heather Howie but her effort was blocked on the line at the right post.

Next it was Lexi Sabatelli who was denied on the line as Western again tried to squeeze the ball over in for a goal.

The second quarter was a more even affair with Western surviving a couple of early penalty corner attempts.

It was in the final quarter that Western threw the kitchen sink at the Italians but just couldn’t find a winning goal. The closest they came was a diving attempt by Emma McGregor but try as they did, Western were held to a 0-0 draw in their third Pool match.

Edinburgh University 0-0 Rottweiss Wettingen

A goalless draw in Edinburgh University’s final Pool match set up a contest for students with Clydesdale Western on the final day of Women’s Club Challenge I at Peffermill.

It was a good start to the match by Edinburgh University; they created the game’s first opportunity after some good play by Louise Campbell but she was denied by some brave defending on the goal line.

Then Sophie Maunder deflected a crash ball against the post but the Swiss survived another Edinburgh University attack.

Some lovely skill by Zara Malseed in the second quarter won a penalty corner and the resulting Becky Merchant effort prompted a scramble in the D, but no goal for the Scots.

Straight after half time Sam Judge slashed the ball across goal but the Wettingen goalkeeper did well to keep it clear of her goal.

It was one way traffic toward the Wettingen goal but the Edinburgh students just couldn’t find that crucial finish.

Wettingen came alive in the final quarter and eventually went to a kicking back in search of a win but it ended goalless setting up a final day clash with Clydesdale Western.

Scottish Hockey Union media release



Caspers reflects on “ultimate dream” as Kampong land Dutch title


©: World Sport Pics

After a 32-year wait for the Dutch national title, SV Kampong made it two in two years as they won their decisive third leg against AH&BC Amsterdam 3-1.

Second half goals from Robbert Kemperman and Bjorn Kellerman saw them nab the win after Jasper Luijkx and Mirco Pruijser traded first half goals.

For captain Quirijn Caspers, it was extra special to be able to see a banner stating 'Kampong Heren 1 Landskampioen' on their home clubhouse.

“This was the ultimate dream,” he told hockey.nl. “We were talking about it this week. We knew if we were to become champions, it would be at home.

“What could surpass last season when we finally became champions? Well, this here. This is going to be such a nice party.”

Coach Alexander Cox pored over the video of their 2-1 defeat on Saturday to Amsterdam and got the details right on Sunday to land the win.

"Actually, I do not want to blow too much smoke up his ass," said a joking Caspers of Cox’s game-plan. "He sat us down in that room today. We watched the video and he was individually super critical but he was also positive and he just picks people up and keeps us sharp. That helped us today.”

Sander de Wijn added: “I dare say that we do not have the best team on paper but we have a team. And Al keeps the boys sharp.

“That he has been with the team for six years also indicates something about the maturity of the team."

Next weekend, Kampong will go for the double at the EHL FINAL4 in Bloemendaal, starting off with a semi-final date against Herakles at 1.30pm (CET) on Saturday, May 26.

Euro Hockey League media release



Oranje-Rood snatch last EHL ticket ahead of Bloemendaal


©: Frank Uijlenbroek/world Sport Pics

HC Oranje-Rood snatched the last EHL ticket from the Dutch playoffs as they won a shoot-out in their second leg against HC Bloemendaal, making it two wins from two in this series.

Tim Swaen had given Bloemendaal the lead in the tie but Oranje-Rood captain Mink van der Weerden equalised, leading to a shoot-out in which the Eindhoven side prevailed with Jelle Galema nabbing the winning shoot-out.

It was Galema’s last act for the club before he moves to Den Bosch and he got a standing ovation from the travelling fans.

For Bloemendaal, Floris Wortelboer says there has been plenty of introspection following an impressive regular season saw them finish second in the Hoofdklasse only to falter in the playoffs against Amsterdam and Oranje-Rood.

“Many good things came out of those discussions,” Wortelboer said. “We play quite well in the league, did the right things. We came into the play-offs somewhat of a favorite. People expected something from us from the outside world but also within the club, we wanted to become champion once again.

“In retrospect, we maybe did not deal with it properly. Everyone felt that pressure. You put this on yourself but we went wrong with it and, as a result, we had a slight tension at the decisive moments and did not lived up to expectations."

They have little time to rest, though, as they take on HC Rotterdam next Saturday in the EHL FINAL4 on home turf.

“It is not great right now but I am sure that we will win prizes with this team in the short and long term, starting with the EHL next week!”

Euro Hockey League media release



De Wijkerslooth and Pruijser power Amsterdam to vital third leg


©: Koen Suyk/world Sport Pics

AH&BC Amsterdam sent the Dutch final to a third game as Mirco Pruijser produced two great goals to beat SV Kampong 2-1, making it one win a piece in their best of three series.

The win owed much to former Kampong keeper Jan de Wijkerslooth who kept Amsterdam ahead.

“It is a dream to try and win the national title here on Sunday,”he said to hockey.nl afterwards.

His defence kept out two corners in the closing five minute while he also denied Bjorn Kellerman, Lars Balk, Jip Janssen and twice in close proximity from Philip Meulenbroek.

It combined to inflict a first defeat of the entire season on Kampong at the most crucial point with the goalkeeper lining out against his family club with whom he played with until the age of 20 when David Harte arrived.

“Of course, it was very special to keep the finals alive. I live five minutes away from here [in Utrecht] so it is a little weird.”

For Pruijser, he paid tribute to his own defence despite his own pair of goals.

“We have done the defensive side of things so well. Fergus Kavanagh was never beaten; nor was Justin Reid-Ross either. Teun Rohof too, they have brought the victory home."

The final leg will be played today at 4pm (CET) with NOS broadcasting the game live in the Netherlands.

Euro Hockey League media release



Duncan looking to give Herakles’ “crazy” fans even more to celebrate


©: Frank Uijlenbroek/world Sport Pics

Jeremy Duncan says the experience of the Herakles fan-base in Rotterdam was a “crazy experience” and he cannot wait to see even more from the Lier-club’s fans next weekend for the FINAL4 in Bloemendaal.

They take on SV Kampong at 1.15pm (CET) in the semi-final on Saturday, hoping they can continue on their fairytale season against the double-chasing Dutch club.

For Herakles, their regular season ended three weeks ago in Belgium with a seventh place finish, ending with a strong run of form that included a win over Racing Club de Bruxelles as a highlight.

It added to their fairytale run in the KO16, beating Spanish sides Atletic Terrassa and Real Club de Polo to reach the FINAL4 at the first attempt.

At the end of the regular season, Herakles took nine days off to “reset, put the legs up and mentally refresh” before getting back into training and take in practice matches against Den Bosch and Rotterdam.

“Kampong will be another step up from that but that was good preparation for the way Dutch teams play,” Duncan told the EHL website in the wake of Ireland’s 2-1 win over Germany on Saturday evening in which he set up the equalising goal for Shane O’Donoghue.

“They have only lost one game all season so we know what we are up against. Everyone likes being an underdog; we know their quality and have nothing to lose. We have qualities ourselves and if we stay in the game as long as we can then we can get a result for sure.

“The second half of the season, we really finished well with five wins out of six. Having that momentum to finish on a high is always nice.”

Herakles’ fans stood out during the KO16, particularly with their ‘yellow submarine’ celebrations. It is something that has made the Irishman’s first season with the Belgian club a special one.

“It was a serious experience to see the crowd like that. The guys got pretty used to it last year with all the playoffs but, for me, it was crazy – I have never seen anything like it.

“Such a small group making so much noise; we are hoping to have double the amount in Bloemendaal!

“For me, the whole season has been a great experience, getting to know a new team in such a family atmosphere that have made me feel so welcome, it’s been fantastic. I couldn’t have expected it to be as good as it has been.”

Euro Hockey League media release



Maartje Paumen retires from club hockey and returns to Dutch leagues as MOP assistant coach


New Zealand are taking the Michelsen (right) (c) Andy Smith

Dutch holckey great Maartje Paumen has played her last game after it was confirmed that the penalty corner specialist will be joining Dutch outfit MOP as assistant coach next season.

After a 17-year club career which spanned Oranje Zwart, Den Bosch and Royal Antwerp, Paumen will return to her home country and work with head coach Ageeth Boomgaardt at MOP Ladies.

Paumen, one of the Netherlands’ greatest women’s players, finished her career in Belgium with Royal Antwerp, where her side just missed out on the Belgium national title after defeat to Waterloo Ducks.

It proved an emotional loss as she fell to her knees at the final hooter in tears, realising that this would prove her last game in club colours.

Now, though, she will turn her attention to regaining trophies from the touchline.

“The knowledge and experience of Maartje as a player can be of great value to our relatively young team,” said Remco van Lotringen of MOP.

Paumen won 11 national titles and 10 European Cups while with Den Bosch in a stellar career, while she was declared world player of the year in 2011 and 2012.

The 32-year-old also won 12 trophies with the Dutch national team, including two Olympic titles. In all, she scored over 600 goals, with 368 of those coming in the Dutch leagues.

“Ageeth is a wonderful mentor for me,” said Paumen. “MOP is a young ambitious group of girls who want to get better.

“That was the deciding factor for me. I would like to pass on my knowledge and experience to this team.”

The Hockey Paper



Sharks, Scorpions go top in hockey league

By AYUMBA AYODI

Greensharks and Strathmore University Scorpions chalked up impressive victories over the weekend at City Park Stadium, Nairobi to move top of their respective hockey Premier Leagues.

Greensharks thumped visiting Nakuru 3-0 on Sunday, a victory that saw them dislodge champions Kenya Police from the men's league summit with 16 points.

International Gilly Okumu notched a brace as the Scorpions, who are chasing their maiden women's Premier League title, edged out the 1998 champions Sliders 3-1 on Saturday.

The students moved to the top with 12 points, as champions Telkom, who were not in action this weekend, dropped to second place with nine points.

In fact, Police, who rested this weekend, dropped to third place after former champions Butali Sugar Warriors thrashed Parklands Sports Club 4-0 at City Park in Sunday's late game.

Butali moved to second place in the log with 15 points same as Police but have a superior goal difference over their arch-rivals.

Ben Ochieng opened the scoring for Greensharks in the ninth minute with a field goal before Kevin Simiyu made it two from another field goal just two minutes into the second quarter.

Victor Osiche's strike from a penalty corner on the stroke of full time sealed the victory for the Sharks.

Butali made it four wins in a row as new signing George Mutira claimed a hat-trick in the seventh, 42nd and 59th minutes to sink Parklands.

Derrick Kuloba scored Butali's other goal in the 10th minute.

"I am enjoying myself at my new club and its it's good to be feeling this way," said Mutira, the former Chase Sailors striker, addding that he has settled pretty fast with the rest of Butali players since he played with most of them before at Strathmore and Nairobi Simba.

"It's good to be in the same spirit and add something to their course."

Mutira said their main target is to win the continental title.

"Recapturing the league title will just be a bonus," said Mutira, who connected Kenneth Nyongesa's pass in the middle with a backhand flick for the opening goal.

Kuloba found himself unmarked at the middle to send in another smashing backhand for Butali's second goal as they led 2-0 at the break.

It's Zack Aura who orchestrated another Butali attack before his shot was parried back to play by Parklands keeper Farshad Shire.

Parklands wasted four penalty corners and were punished heavily when Mutira weaved through the napping defenders for his brace before sealing a hat-trick in the last minute.

Butali will play Greensharks on Saturday in the last 30 minutes of their match that failed to end a fortnight ago owing to a soggy pitch.

The 2015 champions, who led 2-0 before the match was abandoned, will end their Nairobi tour with a match against Kenya Colleague of Accountancy University (KCA-U) on Sunday.

Daily Nation



Scorpions maintain unbeaten run with victory over rivals Sliders

By Elizabeth Mburugu



Strathmore University Scorpions continued with their fine form beating rivals Sliders 3-1 to dislodge Telkom from the top of the log.

Following their victory, unbeaten Scorpions now lead league standings with 12 points from four matches. With their clash against Sliders being the only women’s Premier League tie at the weekend, they are guaranteed of enjoying the top spot for a week.

Telkom are now second with nine points while Sliders maintained their third-place despite losing to the students.

Attempts from both sides failed in the first half as matters ended in a barren draw.

Lynn Ayuma broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute, however, before the break of the third quarter, veteran Doris Kirui leveled matters in the 44th minute. The game gained momentum in the fourth quarter with both sides seeking be the first to score and break the tie.

Kirui, captain Anita Agunda and Nancy Kibogong intensified Sliders' hunt while goal poachers Gilly Okumu, skipper Yvonne Wanjiku and Denise Odongo led the chase on the other end for Strathmore.

Speedy Okumu outpaced Sliders defence in the 51st minute to give her side a 2-1 lead with nine minutes remaining. Okumu then made it three with a 58th penalty stroke

In the Kenya Hockey Union women’s Super League battle at City Park, Lakers edged Wolverines 1-0 to carry the day.

However, the Kisumu-based girls could not complete a double as they fell by the same margin to favourites University of Nairobi (UoN) in the second tie of the weekend.

Racheal Laura successfully converted a penalty corner in the 22nd minute to snatch maximum points and extend Wolverines' wait for first win.

The Victory saw Lakers move to third place with six points, one less than second-placed UON and two less than league leaders Kenyatta University (KU) Titans.

However, with their stay in second place under threat, UoN fought to ensure they are not outdone by the newcomers.

Catherine Agunda, who has been impressive so far, netted the winner in the 23rd minute.

The Standard Online



Hockey supports World Health Organization in promoting healthy lifestyles


Hundreds of people from all walks of life stopped to try out hockey in Geneva Photo: FIH

Hockey joined in the major health promotion event “Walk the Talk” on 20 May 2018 in Geneva, Switzerland organised as part of the celebrations of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 70th anniversary.

Together with local Hockey Club Servette Geneva and Generation Games, FIH organised a hockey initiation programme for the public to demonstrate the fun and action of our sport.

Hundreds of people, including WHO Director General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, stopped at the hockey field and picked up a stick to dribble, pass and shoot goals.

Experts from federal, cantonal and city authorities, United Nations (UN) agencies, permanent missions of a variety of countries to the UN, NGOs and academia also participated  in “Walk the Talk”.

Regular physical activity, including hockey, not only makes you feel good, it has significant benefits for health. It reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some cancers, helps control weight, and contributes to mental well-being. Taking part in physical activity also increases opportunities for making friends and feeling part of the community.

To that effect, insufficient physical activity is one of the leading risk factors for death worldwide. WHO research shows that globally, more than 80% of the world's adolescent population is insufficiently physically active.

The drop in physical activity is partly due to inaction during leisure time and sedentary behaviour on the job and at home. Likewise, an increase in the use of "passive" modes of transportation also contributes to insufficient physical activity.

WHO Member States have agreed to reduce insufficient physical activity by 10% by 2025. FIH and the hockey community are committed to support this important cause.

Hockey is highly inclusive - a true 'sport for all'. At all levels, it is played by as many girls and women as by boys and men which makes it 'Equally Amazing'.

Hockey is also a game that is played for life, supported by the player numbers growing at both ends of youth and masters.

A true family game, hockey venues around the world often see several generations playing on the same day, which was also very true for hockey at “Walk the Talk” which attracted in particular kids with their parents.

People with impairments can practise hockey and the sport is also played increasingly in developing and development countries.

In this regard, the FIH’s Targeted Assistance Programme (TAP) supports Continental Federations and National Associations to conduct long-term sustainable development projects or programmes, especially where there is a lack of financial resources.

Finally yet importantly, hockey can be played in very different settings, be it indoors, outdoors, on the beach, on differently sized fields etc. and varying formats.

The urban setting with a small-sized field in Geneva during “Walk the Talk” is an excellent example.

#LoveHockey

FIH site

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