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News for 05 May 2019

All the news for Sunday 5 May 2019


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

Finals results

AUT v ITA (3 / 4)   1 - 2
MAS v CAN (Final)   2 - 3

Final standings

1. Canada
2. Malaysia
3. Italy
4. Austria
5. Wales
6. China
7. Brazil
8. Belarus

FIH Match Centre



Canada defeats host-Malaysia in thrilling championship match

Well-timed goals and a terrific defensive performance vaults Canada to a 3-2 championship title over Malaysia



The capacity crowd at the national hockey stadium was treated to an early home-team goal that set the stage for a wild evening of hockey in Kuala Lumpur as the FIH Series Finals came to a close. Canada and Malaysia, the two top teams in the tournament met in the finals after failing to win their groups. Malaysia advanced through Austria in the semifinal and Canada defeated Italy, setting up a one-two matchup in the final.

Since 2011, Canada has only defeated Malaysia in regular time once and in a shootout a pair of times. Most recently, Malaysia defeated Canada twice at the 2019 Azlan Shah Cup. The home-team took the lead and handled much of the possession in the first quarter. Canada pushed back in the second quarter earning four penalty corners and capitalized on two of the them. Canadian captain, Scott Tupper scored the first PC goal on a classic drag-flick and Brenden Bissett scored the second on a beautiful set piece deflection. The two goals came within two minutes of each other. Late in the half, Malaysia earned a penalty stroke but failed to hit the target. Canada took a 2-1 lead into the second half.

As expected, Malaysia came out firing in the third, using a yellow card man-advantage and applying heavy pressure. The Canadian defense, back-stopped by goalkeeper Antoni Kindler stood tall and weathered the storm. Late in the third quarter, back at full strength, Canada countered and earned a penalty corner. They didn’t score on the PC but on the ensuing play, Adam Froese swept a ball into the circle and Canadian attacker Jimmy Kirkpatrick deflected the ball into the back of the Malaysian net, giving Canada a 3-1 advantage.

It was an all-out assault from the Malaysian side in the fourth quarter. Canadian goalkeeper Antoni Kindler made an incredible diving save on a penalty stroke with less than 10 minutes remaining. Malaysia added a goal with seven minutes left and then proceeded to pull their goalkeeper for an added attacker. Canada, with all their players back, withstood the pressure and defeated the home country 3-2 for a tournament victory and all-important ranking points heading towards Olympic qualification.

Canada’s next major competition is the Pan American Games in July in Lima Peru.

Field Hockey Canada media release



Canada win FIH Series Finals

By Jugjet Singh


Canada celebrate after beating Malaysia 3-2 in the final of the FIH Series Finals at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil. PIC BY MOHAMAD SHAHRIL BADRI SAALI

BUKIT JALIL: Canada were handed the FIH Series Finals crown on a silver platter by winning 3-2 following Malaysia’s failure to convert two penalty strokes and five penalty corners at the National Hockey Stadium here on Saturday.

The Saari brothers, Fitri and Faizal each missed from the spot.

However, both had a good tournament and the fans did not boo them for their misses.

Veteran Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin Tengku Abdul Jalil was named as the tournament’s best player and top scorer (six goals).

"Disappointed that we could not win gold, but in the end, we achieved our goal of playing in the final and qualifying for the next stage of the Olympic qualifier on merit and not ranking.

"We were unlucky today (yesterday) as we missed two penalty strokes which could have changed our fortunes, but in the end, we have another mission and our target is still the same.

"I want to play in the Olympics, and I believe my teammates also want it badly," said Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin.

Canada were composed while Malaysia made too many errors in the attacking semi-circle until the eight minute that is.

Firhan Ashhari scored a fantastic field goal, and the crowd went delirious.

But Canada captain Scott Tupper was in no mood to give up, and off their first penalty corner in the 20th minute, his low drag levelled the match.

And Tupper led by example yet again in the 22nd minute when his penalty corner drag push was deflected into goal by Brenden Bissett.

Malaysia fought hard and Norsyafiq Sumantri earned a penalty stroke when he was fouled by Keegan Pereira in the shooting circle.

Fitri stepped up but pushed the ball wide in the 28th minute.

Malaysia went into the dressing room looking for answers.

But it was Canada who came out rejuvenated. James Kirkpatrick made it 3-1 in the 43rd minute.

Malaysia then missed another penalty stroke in the 50th minute and this time it was Faizal’s turn.

Seasoned striker Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin injected some life when he scored in the 53rd minute.

However, Canada defended well until the final hooter for the title.

Italy finished third by overcoming Austria 2-1 in an earlier match.

The Italians netted through Francois Sior (47th) and Thomas Keenan (49th), while Patrick Schmidt scored for Austria in the 49th minute.

New Straits Times



It’s just not our day

By Aftar Singh


Going all out: Malaysia’s Azhan Hasan (front) vying for the ball with Canada’s Brenden Bisset during the final of the FIH Series Finals in Bukit Jalil yesterday. — MUHAMAD SHAHRIL ROSLI/The Star

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia went through a nightmare outing in the final of the FIH Series Finals.

The hosts conceded two penalty corner goals in a space of two minutes and muffed two penalty strokes as they lost 2-3 to Canada at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil yesterday.

The Saari brothers, Muhd Fitri and Faizal, failed to score from the strokes in the 28th and 50th minute.

Malaysia also failed to convert the five penalty corners awarded.

Roelant Oltmans’ boys, cheered on by the 7,000 fans, had a bright start when they sounded the board in the eighth minute.

Muhd Firhan Ashari collected a through pass from Meor Mohd Azuan Hasan before slamming the ball past goalkeeper David Carter.

Malaysia continued their onslaught and earned a penalty corner in the 14th minute but Muhd Razie Abdul Rahim’s flick was saved by Carter.

Canada, who twice lost to Malaysia in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh last month, bounced backed and scored off their first penalty corner in the 20th minute.

Skipper Scott Tupper’s low drag flick sailed past Muhd Hairi Abdul Rahman.

The former Pan American champions kept up the pressure and two minutes later they increased the lead.

Tupper’s drag flick was deflected into goal by Brenden Bisset.

In the 40th minute, Canada were down to 10 men after Fin Boothroyd was flashed the yellow card for kicking the ball out.

But Malaysia failed to take advantage and paid a heavy price when Canada scored their winning goal in the 43rd minute.

Pereira sent in a through pass which was deflected into goal by James Kirkpatrick.

Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin Tengku Abdul Jalil narrowed the deficit in the 53rd minute but it proved futile.

Tengku Ahmad, who was named the tournament’s best player and the top scorer, said it was unfortunate that they failed when it mattered most.

“We created so many chances but was let down by our poor finishing and leaky defence.

“It was just not our day.

“We muffed two penalty strokes and failed to convert five penalty corners.

“But I still believe we have a good chance to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.

“We just need to keep it tight at the back and polish up on our finishing,” said the 33-year-old who scored four goals in the tournament.

The Star of Malaysia



2019 FIH Pro League (Men) - 5 May

GBR v ESP (RR)     1 - 1 (2 - 3 SO)     Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre, London    
ARG v AUS (RR)     1 - 2     Cenard, Buenos Aires

Unofficial Pool Standings

Rank Team Played Wins Win Draws Loss Draws Losses Goals For Goals Against Goal Difference Points Percent
1 Australia 9 7 0 1 1 28 19 9 22 81.5
2 Great Britain 6 4 0 1 1 19 11 8 13 72.2
3 Argentina* 9 4 0 0 4 19 23 -4 13 48.1
4 Belgium 5 3 1 1 0 21 12 9 12 80.0
5 Netherlands 7 3 1 1 2 23 18 5 12 57.1
6 Spain 10 0 5 0 5 24 35 -11 10 33.3
7 Germany* 7 2 0 1 3 12 14 -2 8 38.1
8 New Zealand 9 0 0 2 7 21 35 -14 2 7.4

* A cancelled match contributes 1 point to each team's results that is not shown in the tables as a cancelled match
The FIH inexplicably and confusingly use a system not used in any other sports League in the World, of making the Percentage more important than Points until the end of the League when they will revert to Points only. Fieldhockey.com prefers to use the conventional Points and so the Unofficial Pool Standings on this site are reflected in this manner.

FIH Match Centre



2019 FIH Pro League (Women) - 5 May

3 May 2019     GBR v CHN (RR)     1 - 2     Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre, London    
4 May 2019     ARG v AUS (RR)     1 - 1 (3 - 1 SO)     Cenard, Buenos Aires

Unofficial Pool Standings

Rank Team Played Wins Win Draws Loss Draws Losses Goals For Goals Against Goal Difference Points Percent
1 Argentina 11 7 3 0 1 21 10 11 27 81.8
2 Netherlands 8 7 0 0 1 24 4 20 21 87.5
3 Australia 10 5 1 1 3 20 14 6 18 60.0
4 Germany 8 4 0 2 2 16 10 6 14 58.3
5 Belgium 6 4 0 1 1 10 6 4 13 72.2
6 New Zealand 11 4 0 0 7 19 24 -5 12 36.4
7 China 12 3 0 1 8 17 31 -14 10 27.8
9 Great Britain 8 1 2 0 5 10 20 -10 7 29.2
9 United States 10 0 1 2 7 10 28 -18 4 13.3

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

FIH Match Centre



Shoot-out Kings Spain take bonus point against Great Britain in London



Spain’s men made it a remarkable five shoot-out wins out of five in the FIH Pro League, taking a bonus point against hosts Great Britain after the match at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre finished with the scores at 1-1.

The Red Sticks had the ball in the back of the British net before the home team had even touched it, with competition top scorer Pau Quemada on target with Spain’s first attack. The ever-dangerous Sam Ward pulled Great Britain level early in the second quarter and had a goal ruled out by an umpire video referral in the final minute before Spain snatched the extra point thanks largely to another goalkeeping master-class from Quico Cortes.

The result sees Great Britain drop from first to third position in the FIH Pro League standings, with Spain remaining in seventh position but closing the gap on sixth placed Germany.

In-form Great Britain (FIH World Ranking: 7) men came into the match knowing that a victory over Spain (WR:9) would put them clear at the top of the FIH Pro League table, moving ahead of Belgium with both teams having claimed 80 percent of the points available to them so far. While Spain were still chasing their first outright win of the FIH Pro League, they have proven themselves as a fearless attacking side throughout this competition. With Great Britain edging a sensational reverse fixture in Valencia 6-5, where they overturned a 4-1 deficit, the home favourites knew that their FIH Pro League home debut was going to be far from straight forward.

Spain needed just 36 seconds to make the first mark on the scoreboard, with Quemada being in the right place to deflect home a strike from Joan Tarres for his eighth goal of the FIH Pro League. It was the worst possible start for the team coach by Danny Kerry, although Great Britain were largely the dominant force in the first quarter and deservedly restored parity early in the second period. Sam Ward was the scorer, finding the bottom left corner with a penalty corner drag-flick that proved too powerful for Spain goalkeeper Quico Cortes.

Great Britain created the better chances in the lead-up to half time with Ward, Zach Wallace and Alan Forsyth all looking dangerous as Spain found themselves reduced to ten players due to a yellow card five minute suspension for Marc Salles. However, GB were also reduced in numbers when David Ames was given a card of the same colour as the scores remained locked at 1-1 going into half time.

The home favourites had the better of the third and fourth quarters, with Forsyth and Great Britain captain Adam Dixon being denied by the excellent Cortes in the third before Salles produced a superb, goal-saving block on Will Calnan early in the fourth period. There was high drama in the final 30 seconds, with Ward slamming home what seemed to be the winning goal with another penalty corner. However, an umpire video referral ruled out the strike as the ball had failed to leave the circle before Ward scored, leaving the scores level at 1-1 before a tense shoot-out for the bonus point.

Spain’s unenviable record in the shoot-out would continue, fighting back from 2-0 down to take the one-on-ones to sudden-death. The decisive goal came from Sergi Enrique, who beat George Pinner moments before Phil Roper was forced into a mistake from the brilliant Cortes, giving Spain a remarkable fifth successive FIH Pro League shoot-out win.

“We are good at moving the ball, and every match we are getting better”, said Spain goalkeeper Quico Cortes after the match. “Of course the teams that are winning the tournaments are the ones that have the best defences. If we keep on working, and increase our level and our defending, we can be there.”

The FIH Pro League action continues on later today (4 May) when Argentina’s men and women take on the national teams of Australia in Buenos Aires.

FIH Pro League

4 May - London, England

Result: Men’s Match 30
Great Britain 1, Spain 1 (2-3 After Shoot-Out)
Player of the Match: Sam Ward (GBR)
Umpires: Rawi Anbananthan (MAS), Sean Rapaport (RSA) & Alison Keogh (IRL)

#FIHProLeague

Official FIH Pro League Site



One point for GB’s men in FIH Pro League home opener



Great Britain’s men marked their first home FIH Pro League match with a battling 1-1 draw in regular time but were unable to pick up the bonus point in the resulting shootout.

Having come back from 4-1 down to win the reverse fixture 6-5, this meeting was quite the opposite to January’s goal-fest, with both sides looking well-regimented in defence.

Though Great Britain peppered the Spanish goal with shots, ‘keeper Quico Cortes had a superb game as he repeatedly came to the rescue for the visitors.

Sam Ward cancelled out Spain’s early goal, and though the forward had the ball in the back of the net again in the final minute his strike was ruled out to see the game into a shootout.

Despite a series of stunning saves from George Pinner, who was making his 50th Great Britain cap, Spain came out on top in the shootout in sudden-death.



Full report:
With barely thirty seconds on the clock Spain had found the back of the net, the FIH Pro League’s leading goal-scorer Pau Quemada adding to his tally.

Great Britain recovered well, enjoying the majority of the possession for the remainder of the quarter, however struggled to find a clear-cut chance to unleash a strike on goal.

The breakthrough was to come shortly after the restart as Sam Ward clinically fired home from a penalty corner to level the scores.

A quick succession of penalty corners followed for Great Britain, Ward’s first effort being well saved, with Cortes making another smart stop to deny Luke Taylor from the second.

Great Britain were well in the ascendancy and, following a dazzling run into the circle from Alan Forsyth, were awarded another penalty corner, this time Cortes with a firm hand to prevent Taylor’s attempt finding the back of the net.

With time running out in the half, Sam Ward sent in a threatening cross which narrowly evaded a couple of on-rushing attackers as GB continued to come close to taking the lead.

After controlling the second-quarter, GB maintained the momentum after the interval yet struggled to make their dominance tell on the scoreboard.

It had been an excellent performance from Cortes who again was on hand to prevent Great Britain from taking the lead from another penalty corner routine.

Spain conjured a half-chance with ten minutes remaining, but smart defensive work was enough to quell the attack.

Will Calnan unleashed a rocket of shot from close range with little over five minutes remaining, however there was too much on the strike as it whipped just over the goal.

Having taken victory over Spain last time out after saving three last-minute penalty corners, this time it was GB who had the chance to take the spoils with less than 30 seconds remaining. Great Britain looked to have won it from the corner as Ward swept the ball under the ‘keeper’s legs, however, after an umpire’s referral the goal was disallowed due to the ball not leaving the circle meaning the game would be settled by a shootout.

GB’s first draw in the FIH Pro League wasn’t to be marked with a bonus point as Spain claimed their fifth shootout win of the competition. Phil Roper and Jack Waller successfully netted for the hosts, and whilst Pinner put in a fantastic effort to try to push his side towards the extra spoils, it was Spain who would take the two points.

Despite not taking all the points there was lots of encouraging signs from the GB side who are back in action on Saturday 18 May against Argentina in a double header which starts with the women’s match at 1pm.

Great Britain 1
Ward (18’, PC)
Spain 1
Pau Quemada (1’, FG)

Spain win shootout 3-2

GBR: Gibson (GK), Willars, Ames, Forsyth, Griffiths, Sloan, Ward, Roper, Dixon, Creed, Wallace
Subs: Pinner (GK), Taylor, Martin, Condon, Waller, Gall, Calnan
Shootout: Roper (scored), Martin (missed), Waller (scored), Wallace (missed), Forsyth (missed), Roper (missed - sudden death)

Great Britain Hockey media release



Great Britain beaten by Spain in shootout


Spain's Enrique Gonzalez scored the decisive one-on-one past Britain's George Pinner

Great Britain lost to Spain in a shootout in the men's FIH Pro League at Lee Valley after their game finished 1-1 in normal time.

The visitors took the lead after just 36 seconds through Pau Quemada before Sam Ward levelled from a corner in the second period.

The hosts stepped up the pressure after that and forced several smart saves from Spain goalkeeper Quico Cortes.

But they could not make a breakthrough and went down 3-2 in the shootout.

Ward thought he had a won it and secured all three points with just 23 seconds remaining in normal time with another goal from a corner but the strike was ruled out with the ball not leaving the D.

In the resultant one-on-ones, Britain quickly took a 2-0 lead but Spain levelled to send it to sudden death before registering their fifth successful shootout of the competition, the visitors taking two points to GB's one.

BBC Sport



Kookaburras move top with defeat of Argentina while Hockeyroos and Leonas share the points in Buenos Aires



A 2-1 away victory over Olympic champions Argentina has sent Australia’s Kookaburras to the top of the men’s FIH Pro League standings, with Argentina’s women taking a bonus point by winning the shoot-out after their match against the Hockeyroos finished all square in Buenos Aires. 

The points were shared in the women’s match, which finished with the scores locked at 1-1 before Argentina outgunned Australia in the shoot-out to take the bonus point. Both teams remain in the all-important top four positions, with Argentina second behind the Netherlands and Australia fourth behind Belgium. The top four finishers in the FIH Pro League will secure tickets to June’s FIH Pro League Grand Final in Amsterdam and also the FIH Olympic qualifiers, which take place later this year.

Australia men moved to the top of the FIH Pro League thanks to a battling performance to earn a 2-1 win over Los Leones. Blake Govers and Corey Weyer were on target for the Kookaburras before Maico Casella reduced the deficit with a fourth quarter goal that proved only a consolation. Belgium sit behind Australia in second place, with Great Britain third and the Netherlands in fourth. Defeat for Argentina leaves them fifth in the standings.

It was second versus fourth in the women’s fixture as Argentina looked to continue a sensational run of form which saw them win six successive FIH Pro League matches coming into today's meeting against Australia (WR:3). Las Leonas were 1-0 winners of the reverse fixture in Sydney thanks to a solitary strike from Delfina Merino, a player absent for the rematch against a Hockeyroos team that are still the only team to have claimed an FIH Pro League victory over reigning world champions and league leaders the Netherlands.

The hosts made a lethargic start in their attempt to close the gap on the Dutch table-toppers, falling behind just two minutes into the match when Maddy Fitzpatrick’s high drag-flick hit the roof of Argentina’s net, with goalkeeper Maria Mutio getting a touch but unable to deflect the ball away to safety. However, the home fans had something to smile about in the second quarter when Silvina D’Elia struck an emphatic equaliser, bringing great reward to the penalty corner won by Player of the Match Julieta Jankunas.

Eugenia Trinchinetti missed Argentina’s best opportunity of the third quarter when she failed to get a touch in front of an open goal, with the Hockeyroos successfully absorbing long  spells of pressure from the hosts to ensure that they would at least take a point from away from their trip to South America. However, it was the hosts who took the bonus point with a 3-1 win in the shoot-out, with D’Elia, Carla Rebecchi and Jankunas scoring the goals and goalkeeper Cristina Cosentino coming off the bench to only concede once.

“We knew it was going to be a very tough game, it always is with Australia in these type of games”, said Argentina’s Rebecchi. “We are happy to finish with winning the shoot-out, although I think we wanted to win [in regular time] but it was a really tough match.”

Australia captain Emily Chalker was quick to praise her team in what has been a tough week for the side. “I’m really proud of the resilience of the girls. We battled injuries, played with a man down and we’ve had illnesses all week so for us to come out and put that performance together, it may have been a bit sluggish, but we really dug deep and gave it our best shot.”

Australia’s men (WR:2) had climbed the table before they had even set foot on the Buenos Aires turf, moving from third to second due Great Britain’s shoot-out defeat at the hands of Spain in London earlier in the day. A victory over Argentina (WR:4) would see them leap-frog Belgium and take top spot, but defeating the Olympic champions - who started the day fifth in the FIH Pro League standings - in their own back yard is easier said than done.

There was little to choose between to two teams in the early exchanges, but the Kookaburras - 3-2 winners of the reverse fixture - slowly but surely began to take control of the contest before opening the scoring on the stroke of quarter-time thanks to trade-mark penalty corner drag-flick from Blake Govers. That advantage was almost doubled three minutes before half time when Jake Whetton lifted the ball over onrushing Leones goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi only to watch it bounce agonisingly wide of the right post.

There were chances at either end in the third quarter, with Vivaldi denying both Daniel Beale and Govers in quick succession before Argentina’s Martin Ferreiro had a penalty corner goal ruled out by a video referral. The decisive blow arrived in the 40th minute when Corey Weyer finished from close range after great work from Lachlan Sharp, leaving Argentina needing at least two goals in the final quarter if they were going to salvage anything from the contest.

Maico Casella gave Los Leones hope eight minutes from the end when he somehow managed to get a stick on a fierce pass into the circle. However, despite replacing Vivaldi with an outfield player in the final minutes, the Argentinean comeback failed to materialise.

“We are very happy to have got the opportunity to play here in Argentina”, said Australia’s Jake Harvie, who was named Player of the Match. “It’s an amazing crowd and an amazing place where people really love their hockey. That was a really good match. We expected a lot from a very good opposition. We’ve got lots to work on, but it was a good performance here with a good prep, so we are really excited and hope we get to come back here again soon.”

The FIH Pro League continues on Friday 10 and Sunday 12 May, with USA’s women hosting the national teams of Australia and Argentina at the Spooky Nook Sports Complex in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

FIH Pro League

4 May - London, England

Result: Men’s Match 30
Great Britain 1, Spain 1 (2-3 After Shoot-Out)
Player of the Match: Sam Ward (GBR)
Umpires: Rawi Anbananthan (MAS), Sean Rapaport (RSA) & Alison Keogh (IRL - video)


4 May - Buenos Aires, Argentina

Result: Women’s Match 42
Argentina 1, Australia 1 (3-1 After Shoot-Out)
Player of the Match: Julieta Jankunas (ARG)
Umpires: Amber Church (NZL), Karen Bennett (NZL) and Gareth Greenfield (NZL - video)

Result: Men’s Match 31
Argentina 1, Australia 2
Player of the Match: Jake Harvie (AUS)
Umpires: Gareth Greenfield (NZL), Coen van Bunge (NED) & Aber Church (NZL - video)

#FIHProLeague

Official FIH Pro League Site



Kookaburras Into Top Spot After Seventh Straight Win

Ben Somerford



The Kookaburras have soared into top spot on the FIH Pro League standings after they recorded their seventh consecutive victory with a 2-1 win over Argentina in from a sell-out Buenos Aires crowd on Sunday morning (AEST).

Blake Govers (15’) and Corey Weyer (40’) scored Australia’s goals, before Maico Casella (52’) pulled back a final quarter goal to ensure a tense finale.

Argentina will rue an overturned Matias Paredes goal which would have levelled the match in the 37th minute from a penalty corner.

The Kookaburras won all of the key statistics, including 55-45 per cent possession, 11-3 shots, 20-14 circle entries and 4-2 penalty corners.

Australia dominated for most of the match but Argentina’s late rally tested the Kookaburras defence who stayed calm under pressure.

The result sees Australia leapfrog both Belgium and Great Britain into top spot in the standings, ahead of the side’s European leg of matches in June.

Young defender Jake Harvie was named Player of the Match and said: “We've got lots to work on but it was a good performance. We all defend as one and everyone played their part.”

Earlier, Argentina had the first chance of the game with goalkeeper Tyler Lovell saving well, before the Kookaburras took the lead late in the opening stanza.

Wollongong forward Govers powered home a drag flick in trademark fashion, netting his fourth goal of the FIH Pro League campaign.

Australia almost had a second goal early in the second quarter after a goalmouth scramble, before Jake Whetton scooped marginally wide in the 27th minute.

Argentina goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi made a good save to deny Daniel Beale, after some brilliant skill from the Queensland in the 34th minute.

Vivaldi also thwarted Govers with a low save moments later, while Casella missed a golden opportunity down the other end for Los Leones.

In a significant moment of the game, Argentina thought they’d levelled in the 37th minute when Paredes rifled home from a rebound at a short corner.

However, Argentina’s goal was overturned after an umpire’s referral revealed the ball hadn’t left the circle following the trap to Pedro Ibarra’s flick.

Australia doubled their advantage three minutes later when Aaron Kleinschmidt found Lachlan Sharp inside the D. Sharp’s shot was parried by Vivaldi into Weyer’s path and he slapped it home.

Lovell made a good save from another Casella effort to maintain Australia’s advantage, but the Argentine broke through in the 52nd minute.

Casella deflected past Lovell from a hopeful diagonal ball into the box from Juan Lopez.

Argentina pressed late on, removing Vivaldi for an outfield player, but Australia got the job done to continue their winning run ahead of their next FIH Pro League match against Great Britain in London on June 9.

The Kookaburras will warm up for the European leg with a two-match Test series against India in Perth on May 15 and May 17.

Argentina 1 (Casella 52')
Australia 2 (Govers 15', Weyer 40')

Hockey Australia media release



Argentina Edge Hockeyroos In Shootout Thriller

Ben Somerford



The Hockeyroos’ FIH Pro League top four hopes have been dented after they suffered a dramatic 3-1 shootout defeat to Argentina in front of a sell-out crowd in Buenos Aires on Sunday morning (AEST).

The match had ended 1-1 after 60 minutes, with both sides claiming a point, but Argentina’s shootout win earned them an additional bonus point, leaving them in second spot on the FIH Pro League standings and Australia in fourth.

The Hockeyroos went ahead early when Maddy Fitzpatrick powered in a second minute goal from a penalty corner, but the hosts returned fire from their own 18th minute short corner via Silvina d’Elia.

In a relatively even contest, both sides had four penalty corners while Argentina edged Australia with 15-12 circle entries. Argentina arguably had the better of the chances but couldn’t find a winner.

In the shootout, Edwina Bone, Kaitlin Nobbs and Brooke Peris – in her 150th cap – all failed with their attempts for Australia.

Hockeyroos keeper Rachael Lynch had denied both Lucina von der Heyde and Agostina Alonso, but Carla Rebecchi and Julieta Jankunas capitalised on Australia’s misses to clinch the bonus point.

Australia are next in action against world number 12 United States in Pennsylvania on Saturday morning AEST.

After March’s reverse fixture 1-0 home loss to Argentina in Sydney, the Hockeyroos burst out of the blocks with Savannah Fitzpatrick providing the injection for sister Maddy to flick home the second minute opener.

The chances were few and far between early on, with Argentina coming closest when Lynch saved well from a penalty corner in the fourth minute.

Las Leonas broke through for the leveller three minutes into the second quarter when d’Elia’s powerful drive from a short corner couldn’t be thwarted by outstretched Australia keeper Ash Wells.

Grace Stewart won Australia a PC late in the first half but Argentina keeper Maria Mutio denied Maddy Fitzpatrick this time.

The game came to life in the third period with Malone testing Mutio before Lynch denied Eugenia Trinchinetti and Micaela Retegui blasted wide from a golden chance.

Trinchinetti spurned a gilt-edged opportunity in the 42nd minute when Rebecchi’s scuffed effort from a short corner fell to her in front of goal with Lynch beaten. Jankunas also tested the Hockeyroos custodian.

Sophie Taylor’s last quarter flick was the best chance for either side in the final 15, before the game went to shootouts with Argentina prevailing.

Argentina 1 (d’Elia 18’) – 3 (d’Elia O, von der Heyde X, Alonso X, Rebecchi O, Jankunas O)
Australia 1 (M. Fitzpatrick 2’) – 1 (Bone X, Bates O, Peris X, Nobbs X)

Hockey Australia media release



EH Champs day one victors decided!



A Bank Holiday Weekend packed-full of domestic finals action commenced on Saturday as the first English Men’s and Investec Women’s Championship Finals victors were crowned.

The opening match of the day saw the University of Nottingham 5s defeat Crawley 2nd XI 5-1 in the Men’s T4 Final.

A boisterous crowd witnessed an even opening-half as the teams went into the break level at 1-1, Claude Mahlich opening for the Nottingham side before Karl Bass hit one back.

The University of Nottingham stamped their authority on the game in the second-half, scoring four without reply through Jack Manning-Press, Daniel White, Matt Horton and Alastair Curran to secure the trophy.


University of Nottingham

Following on from a dramatic FIH Pro League match between Great Britain and Spain, the Investec Women’s T3 Championship Finals got underway with Oxted 1s meeting Reading Rockets.

It was the perfect start for Reading as Jemma Stephenson finished off a well-executed field goal before Ellie Mann doubled the lead on the stroke of half-time.

However, the game wasn’t won yet as Oxted remarkably fought back to pull the game level, Hannah White and Laura Johnstone getting on the scoresheet to totally shift the game.

Though Reading re-took the lead just over five minutes later through Shannon Ross, Oxted continued to plug away and quickly replied with Olivia Francis’ goal taking the game to a shootout.

Oxted completed the comeback in dramatic fashion, winning the shootout 2-1 with White scoring both to secure victory in sudden-death after the game finished 3-3 in regular time.


Oxted HC

Following on from the success of the 5s team earlier in the day, the University of Nottingham’s 4s were victorious in the Men’s T3 Final having defeated Atherstone Adders 4-1.

In what was an evenly-fought first-half, the University side took a slender 2-1 advantage into the break courtesy of goals from Tom Cooper and Fin Blake either side of Atherstone’s sole goal from Martin Webb.

The victory was sealed for the University of Nottingham side when Reece Kingham and Gabe Von Der Heyde both struck inside the final ten minutes.


University of Nottingham

It was to be a triple success for the University of Nottingham as their women’s 3rd team beat Barford Tigers 4-2 in the Investec Women’s T4 Final.

Sophie Hunter put the Nottingham side ahead from a penalty corner with just over 20 minutes on the clock in an even opening half where both teams had their chances.

The game exploded into life in the second-half as Hunter struck again from a penalty corner, but Barford responded immediately after with two goals in two minutes through Catherine Dodson and Megan Lockley to tie the game up.

They weren’t level for long as Hunter hit her third then fourth of the match to ensure that the University of Nottingham would lift the trophy with a 4-2 victory.

There’s more EH Champs action to come as the Finals continue throughout the Bank Holiday Weekend and tickets can be purchased by clicking HERE.


University of Nottingham

England Hockey Board Media release



Irish Mens EYHL Champions Trophy Semi Finals



Lisnagarvey will meet Three Rock Rovers in both of the national finals after the two clubs advanced to the EY Champions Trophy final with semi-final wins at Havelock Park.

Garvey eliminated Glenanne while Rovers saw off hosts Banbridge, meaning they will meet in Sunday’s decider in this competition before meeting once again next week in the Irish Senior Cup final. The results also mean both sides will represent Ireland in Europe next season.

Lisnagarvey were the first side to make it through to the final as they ran out 6-0 winners over Glenanne in a slightly deceptive final scoreline.

Indeed, if the Glens made more use of their nine penalty corners, it would surely have been a very different encounter. The Dubliners started with four set pieces in a dominant opening spell but James Milliken had a fine game between the posts to repel efforts from Cedric Jakobi, Jerome Saeys and Shannon Boucher.

Garvey were sitting deep and looking to counter and while they had far fewer chances, theirs were of a much higher quality when they entered the circle.

Oliver Kidd was a star turn with some gorgeous 3D skills and they went 1-0 up when Matthew Nelson reacted brilliantly to a high rebound, slapping in from a ball going over his head.

It was 2-0 in the 31st minute when Johnny Lynch’s powerful left to right pass creating a massive overload. Harry Morris slipped when receiving the ball and the Glens argued it brushed his body in the process but he recovered to sweep to Andy Williamson at the back post for an open goal finish.

That remained the margin for the third quarter as Glenanne spurned two more corners while Kidd also spent a spell in the sin-bin. They were still in the mix at that stage but two goals early in the final quarter quickly killed off those hopes.

Matthew Nelson scored another rebound from Garvey’s second corner and Troy Chambers fired a rising shot by Karl Crosbie – stepping in for the unavailable Iain Walker.

Daniel Nelson added another couple in the last eight minutes for a comprehensive success.

Three Rock Rovers kept up their chances of a third successive EY Champions Trophy success as they beat hosts Banbridge 4-2 in the second semi-final.

Luke Madeley inspired the victory with a powerful performance from the base of defence, adding a goal from their fourth penalty corner in the 28th minute.

Bann had enjoyed much of the possession but struggled to get much real penetration from their attacks as the Rovers defence swallowed up the ball once it entered their 23.

The second half saw Bann step up and forge more openings with Jonny McKee going close and they got level when Eugene Magee scored a low penalty corner for 1-1 in the 48th minute.

Rovers were down to 10 at that stage but as soon as they were restored to the full complement, they scored a cracking second goal. It was a full team move, working the ball around the back and then on to Ben Walker on the baseline and his cross was turned in by Mitch Darling.

A major turning point came when Jamie Carr kept out Zach McClelland’s reverse and, within moments, Three Rock had a key third goal. Again, Madeley was to the fore, barging into the circle and while he looked to be fouled, he got up and crossed for Mark English to tip in through his  legs.

Ross Canning added a fourth with five minutes to go before Jamie Wright pulled one back within 20 seconds but it was too late to salvage a result for the Co Down side.

Men’s EY Hockey League semi-finals: Lisnagarvey 6 (M Nelson 2, D Nelson 2, T Chambers, A Williamson) Glenanne 0; Three Rock Rovers 4 (L Madeley, M Darling, M English, R Canning) Banbridge 2 (E Magee, J Wright)

Final (Sunday): Lisnagarvey v Three Rock Rovers, Havelock Park, 4.30pm

Irish Hockey Association media release



Womens EYHL Champion Trophy Semi Finals



Pegasus will meet Loreto in the women’s EY Champions Trophy final on Sunday at Banbridge’s Havelock Park..

They both won 2-1 in their semi-finals, seeing off Cork Harlequins and UCD, respectively, a result which means both clubs will be bound for Europe in some form next season.

Pegasus, the regular season champions, were the first to make it through as Taite Doherty’s strike with three minutes to go proved the difference against Quins.

They were largely in control of the tie but could not make more use of their nine penalty corners which meant Quins always had a strong element of danger about them.

All the goals came in the second half as Lucy McKee opened the scoring from a penalty corner ricochet from Alex Speers fell her way and she made no mistake.

Julia O’Halloran replied immediately when Olivia Roycroft’s shot was saved her way by Megan Todd and the former Irish international brilliantly volleyed home as the ball approached her head.

During the final quarter, Pegs came back and put on the pressure with Lorna Bateman making key interventions.

And they went in front when Yvonne O’Byrne was in the sin-bin for a yellow card offence and Pegs got the ball to Doherty on the right baseline. Her push across goal came up at waist-height but took a wicked deflection to loop into the goal for the killer blow.

The second semi-final was a slow-burner but ultimately goals from full-backs Caitlin Sherin and Sarah Clarke made the difference.

The tempo built as the first half wore on with Michelle Carey’s first quarter sighter the first shot in anger. The Beaufort side stepped up for the closing phases of the second quarter with Ali Meeke showing their intention when she flashed a shot across the face of goal.

And they went in front on the half hour when Sherin drove forward from right back. She fed a weighted ball for Nicci Daly to shoot which Clodagh Cassin saved but only into the path of Sherin who followed up to push home despite Cassin’s diving attempt.

UCD came back strong in the second half but Hannah Matthews proved immaculate at breaking up attacks and they almost went further clear when Daly went close. Siofra O’Brien was also through one-on-one but Cassin smothered her intentions.

The 2-0 came with 10 minutes to go  in fortuitous fashion from a penalty corner when Sarah Clarke’s soft push was seemingly meant as a pass but deceived everyone and snuck in.

UCD replied instantly to get their goal when Hannah McLoughlin’s corner sweep was parried by Liz Murphy and Niamh Carey threw herself at the loose ball to scramble over the line.

Her twin sister came close to an equaliser a minute later while Leah McGuire’s final hooter corner was brilliantly tipped away by Murphy to send Loreto through.

Women’s EY Champions Trophy semi-finals: Pegasus 2 (L McKee, T Doherty) Cork Harlequins 1 (J O’Halloran); Loreto 2 (C Sherin, S Clarke) UCD 1 (N Carey)

Final (Sunday): Loreto v Pegasus, Havelock Park, 2.30pm

Irish Hockey Association media release



Irish Hockey Champions Trophy: Pegasus and Lisnagarvey book final spots


Lucy McKee opened the scoring for Pegasus against Cork Harlequins

There will be Ulster representation in both Irish Hockey Champions Trophy finals after Pegasus and Lisnagarvey won their respective semi-finals held at Banbridge Hockey Club on Saturday.

In the women's decider Pegasus will take on Loreto after they beat UCD 2-1.

The men's final will see Lisnagarvey, 6-0 winners over Glenanne, play Three Rock Rovers.

Three Rock Rovers denied what would have been an Ulster derby in the decider by beating Banbridge 4-2.

Pegasus beat Cork Harlequins 2-1 in a tightly contested game. The league winners went ahead in the 38th minute when Lucy McKee pounced on a rebound from a penalty corner.

Cork equalised seven minutes later when a ball into the circle took a deflection and Julia O'Halloran was able to knock it out of mid-air and into the net.

The final quarter was a tense affair with Pegasus forcing but not able to convert a string of penalty corners.

However their pressure told with just three minutes remaining and owed a lot to luck when Taite Doherty swept the ball across goal from just inside the baseline with the final touch coming off a Cork stick.

Pegasus will meet defending champions Loreto in Sunday's final after they defeated UCD 2-1 in the second semi-final.

Goals from Caitlin Sherin and Sarah Clarke had Loreto in charge of the game with 10 minutes to go but they had to fight off a ferocious UCD comeback sparked by a goal from Niamh Carey.

In the end Loreto held on and they can boast the likes of Irish World Cup silver medallists Hannah Matthews, Nicci Daly and Ali Meeke in their ranks, but Pegasus will welcome back Shirley McCay who missed the semi-final because of suspension.

Lisnagarvey overcome 'stubborn Glenanne'

Lisnagarvey overcame a stubborn Glenanne side that had they converted any of their nine penalty corner opportunities could have forced a different outcome.

A well-taken volley from Matthew Nelson and a goal from Andy Williamson, who turned in a cross from Harry Morris, saw Garvey lead 2-0 with a quarter to go but still under pressure.

However they found the net four more times, adding a little gloss to the score-line, with Nelson hammering in his second from a penalty corner.

His brother Daniel also scored twice with Troy Chambers' reverse stick finish perhaps the pick of the goals.

Despite a big crowd turning up to cheer on the hosts, Three Rock Rovers proved too strong in the final match of the day as they beat Banbridge 4-2.

Once again it was another cagey contest with the Dublin side taking the lead in the second quarter through a Luke Madeley strike from a penalty corner.

Eugene Magee replied for the home side after the half-time interval with a drag flick of his own but 20 seconds before the end of the third quarter Mitch Darling tapped in to restore Three Rock's lead.

Banbridge pushed for the equaliser but it never came and Madeley's run and shot was touched in by Mark English to make it 3-1 and Ross Canning made the game safe shortly after.

Despite an almost immediate response from Jamie Wright, the clock rain down on Bann which means for the first time in the four year history of the event the men's final will be between sides from two different provinces.

BBC Sport



Grange lift the men’s Scottish Cup to complete the treble



It was a day of tremendous cup final action at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre as Grange lifted three trophies including the Men’s Scottish Cup. There were final victories Dunfermline Carnegie; Hillhead 2s; Western Wildcats 3s in an excellent day of hockey.
 
Men’s Scottish Cup Final – Grange 4-3 Grove Menzieshill

Grange completed the treble when they beat Grove Menzieshill 4-3 to win the Men’s Scottish Cup at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre.

It was a very even and competitive opening to the match with neither side able to create a clear-cut opportunity. The first chance eventually went the way of Grove Menzieshill at a penalty corner and it was Cyril Varghese who almost forced the ball over the line.

It was the Dundonians who took the lead from a well-executed penalty corner. Cameron Golden gets the credit when the ball was slipped left to him and he zipped it into the net through the charging defence. 1-0.

Grove Menzieshill played with flair and confidence as the half progressed but Grange started to creep back into the contest.

Some inventive play by Dan Coultas won Grange a penalty corner and it was drag flick expert Coultas who stepped up to finish clinically to level the score. 1-1.

The goal saw Grange start to move through the gears and they added a second as half time approached. Cammy Fraser arrived at the top of the D and smashed it low into the bottom right corner to make it 2-1 to Grange.

Into the second half and Grove Menzieshill bagged their equaliser. Jamie Carnegie injected a penalty corner and the ball found its way back to him to knock the ball home for 2-2.

The longer the game progressed the more nervous the match became, but it was Grange who found the net next. The ball was smashed across goal from the right and Todd Mills popped up at the far post to convert a difficult chance high into the net for 3-2 to Grange.

The goal galvanised Grange and they scored another soon after. Shepherdson passed to Duncan Riddell and he found the back of the net to go 4-2 ahead.

Jamie Golden struck the post from a drag flick as Grove Menzieshill went seeking a goal to come back into the match. The next flick found the back of the net and it was Golden who dispatched a low shot against the backboard.

Grange did well to hold onto the ball as the match came to a conclusion and they secured a domestic treble with another trophy lift at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre.


Men’s Scottish Cup Final – Grange v Grove Menzieshill – photo by Duncan Gray

Men’s Scottish Plate Final – Highland 4-9 Dunfermline Carnegie

Dunfermline Carnegie won the Men’s Scottish Plate Final with a sensational 9-4 victory over Highland.

It was an action-packed first half with both sides hunting, and finding, the back of the net.

Highland got off to a great start and struck the opening goal through Gavin Allan.

After Highland took the lead Dunfermline Carnegie found their groove. They looked in great form as the half progressed and managed into a 3-1 lead. Euan Habrouitsky scored their equaliser from the penalty spot before Robert Gillespie and Steven Glass found the net.

The second half saw Highland battle back into the contest. Iain McFadden struck and then Freddie Swift equalised with a glancing effort to take the ball past the goalkeeper for 3-3.

Carnegie issued a solid response and took the lead again when Doyle dispatched a penalty corner drag flick into the net to make it 4-3.

The Carnegie two-goal advantage was restored when they made it 5-3; an excellent first save saw the ball fall nicely for the Paul Weston who anticipated the chance well and scored from close range.

McFadden scored his second drag flick of the match to give Highland a fourth and pull it back to 5-4.

Habrouitsky then made it 6-4 for Carnegie with a far-post tap-in after good build up by Steven Glass.

It went to 7-4 with just a few minutes remaining when Robert Gillespie tapped-in unmarked at the far post.

Doyle sent another drag flick into the corner to bag his hat-trick and Carnegie’s eighth before they Ethan McQuade slipped home a ninth on the hooter for a big result.


Men’s Scottish Plate Final – Highland v Dunfermline Carnegie – photo by Duncan Gray

Men’s District Cup Final – Kelburne 2s 2-2 (3-4) Grange 2s

It was a dramatic Men’s District Cup Final between Kelburne 2s and Grange 2s with Grange eventually lifting the trophy with a running penalties victory at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre.

Grange 2s looked good from the outset and went on the attack with Logan McClure doing well in goal to keep Grange 2s out in the early stages.

Although Grange 2s were dominant, it was Kelburne 2s who grabbed a goal against run of play. Ewen Carmichael struck from a penalty corner in the 32nd minute to give the Paisley side a 1-0 lead.

Grange equalised in the second half with an excellent penalty stroke by Marcus O’Brien; dispatched low into the right corner. 1-1.

Kelburne thought they’d taken the lead again when a lovely penalty corner routine hit the net but the shot was too high and the goal was disallowed.

The goal for Kelburne came soon enough and it was slipped under the goalkeeper from close range by Rory McClure for 2-1.

Grange equalised again soon after and it was Alex Riddell who squeezed the ball home for 2-2.

The match then went to running penalties and a shootout eventually saw Grange 2s run out as winners of the Men’s District Cup.


Men’s District Cup Final – Kelburne 2s v Grange 2s – photo by Duncan Gray
 
Men’s District Plate Final (Pitch 2) – Glasgow University 2s 3-6 Hillhead 2s

The Men’s District Plate Final was an absolute goalfest as Hillhead 2s won 6-3 against Glasgow University in a sensational final.

It was Hillhead 2s who opened the scoring and it came through an excellent finish on the reverse by Andrew Hilton to make it 1-0

A low smash into the backboard by Leo Howes made it 2-0 before Grant MacMillan brought it to 3-0 when he forced the ball home at close range.

It went to 5-0 at half time with goals by Andrew Sinclair and Hilton to give Hillhead 2s a great lead.

Glasgow Uni 2s pulled one back with a nice finish into the roof of the net by Sean Horgan before Matthew Carder bagged another to make it 5-2.

Hillhead 2s struck again through Ruari Thomson before Matthew Balmer scored for Glasgow Uni 2s to complete the scoring at 6-3 to Hillhead 2s.


Men’s District Plate Final – Glasgow University 2s v Hillhead 2s – photo by Duncan Gray

Men’s Reserve Cup Final – Grange 3s 1-3 Grange 4s

The all-Grange affair in the Men’s Reserve Cup final was won by Grange 4s with a 3-1 victory over Grange 3s.

Grange 3s edged the early play in what was a nervy opening to the match. Kieran Berrington was on hand to make it 1-0 to Grange 3s with a great goal to open the scoring. There was a nice spin in the build-up and good composure to pass for a tap in. 1-0.

Out of nowhere Grant Martin found an equaliser for Grange 4s and he converted to make it 1-1 and drag his side back into the contest.

The game completely changed after the equaliser and Grange 4s took control of the match.

Douglas Meikle scored a sensational double to make it 3-1 to Grange 4s and win the Reserve Cup in Glasgow.


Men’s Reserve Cup Final – Grange 3s v Grange 4s – photo by Duncan Gray

Men’s Reserve Plate Final (Pitch 2) – Western Wildcats 3s 3-0 Kelburne 4s

Western Wildcats 3s won the Men’s Scottish Plate final with a 3-0 win over Kelburne 4s at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre.

Kelburne got off to a good start and knocked the ball around confidently but the first opportunity of the game went to Western Wildcats 3s; it came through a penalty corner which was cleared off the line.

Western Wildcats 3s looked dangerous on the break and as the half progressed they scored the opening goal. It came through a well struck Vishal Marwaha penalty corner to make 1-0 to Western Wildcats 3s.

Before long it was 2-0 and Roddy MacCallum smashed the ball home to double the lead.

Into the second half and a great chance fell for Kelburne 4s after the restart but the goalkeeper made a good save standing tall to stop a one-on-one.

Western Wildcats 3s did get their third goal and it came through a rebound at a penalty corner, converted by Scott Anderson, to make it 3-0.


Men’s Reserve Plate Final – Western Wildcats 3s v Kelburne 4s – photo by Duncan Gray

Scottish Hockey Union media release



National women's team stay unbeaten

by Nigel Simon


T&T senior men’s hockey player and England assistant hockey coach Kwandwane Browne conducts a training session with the T&T national men’s hockey team at the National Hockey Centre, Orange Grove Road, Tacarigua on Saturday April 20, 2019. Anthony Harris

Anya Sealy and Brit­tney Hingh were both on tar­get in a 2-0 win over Malvern as T&T se­nior women's hock­ey team made it three wins from as many match­es in the Women’s Cham­pi­onship Di­vi­sion of the T&T Hock­ey Board at the Na­tion­al Hock­ey Cen­tre, East­ern re­gion­al Sport­ing Com­plex, Or­ange Grove Road, Tacarigua on Wednes­day night.

Sealy opened the scor­ing in the 39th minute while Hingh added the sec­ond in the 60th minute to lift the An­tho­ny Mar­cano-coached T&T women to max­i­mum nine points, as they con­tin­ue prepa­ra­tions for next year’s Pan Amer­i­can Chal­lenge which will be con­test­ed in Li­ma, Pe­ru from June 27 to Ju­ly 5, a qual­i­fi­er to the 2021 Pan Amer­i­can Cup, to be held here in T&T.

Speak­ing about the team's prepa­ra­tions thus far, Mar­cano a for­mer na­tion­al play­er him­self said: "Prepa­ra­tions is not so bad so far as the younger play­ers are get­ting the ex­pe­ri­ence of play­ing to­geth­er as a team, and not just train­ing."

De­spite win­ning all three match­es his team has played Mar­cano said he was more fo­cused on mak­ing sure his play­ers un­der­stand their roles and func­tions.

"For me, the score­line is not the key, but try­ing to get the play­ers to get used to game tac­tics, team strate­gies and their in­di­vid­ual roles.

"We al­so have the Un­der-21 Pan Amer­i­can Cham­pi­onship com­ing up next year and we have in­cor­po­rat­ed about eight play­ers who see as fu­ture play­ers for that team in­to our ses­sions, and giv­ing them some ex­po­sure to the team cul­ture and na­tion­al team en­vi­ron­ment.

"There are a few oth­ers we will be adding to the set up short­ly, but at this time we will just work with the group we have and con­tin­ue to de­vel­op them to the lev­el we feel will be ben­e­fi­cial to both the Un­der-21 team and the na­tion­al set-up go­ing for­ward," end­ed Mar­cano.

Shandy Carib Mag­no­lias al­so has nine points but from four match­es fol­lowed by Paragon with three.

In the Men's Cham­pi­onship Di­vi­sion, Po­lice sits at the top with max­i­mum nine points fol­lowed by Queen’s Park Crick­et Club and Malvern, with six points each, then De­fence Force, Paragon, Fa­ti­ma and Notre Dame, all with three apiece.

Wa­ter woes put a tem­po­rary stop to league

The hock­ey sea­son has been forced to grind to an im­me­di­ate halt af­ter it the T&T Hock­ey Board was in­formed by the man­age­ment of East­ern Re­gion­al Sport­ing Com­plex (ER­SC) that wa­ter­ing of the ar­ti­fi­cial sur­face has to be sus­pend­ed as di­rect­ed by the Wa­ter and Sew­er­age Au­thor­i­ty (WASA) dur­ing this pe­ri­od of wa­ter re­stric­tion.

Ac­cord­ing to the T&THB press re­lease, the lo­cal board ex­ec­u­tive is work­ing with the Min­istry of Sport & Youth Af­fairs to find vi­able so­lu­tions that can be pre­sent­ed to WASA, as a con­se­quence, all match­es from last night on­wards have been sus­pend­ed un­til fur­ther no­tice.

The sus­pen­sion of the league is set to have an ef­fect on both na­tion­al men and women team' train­ing ses­sions, with the men get­ting ready to com­pete at the Pan Amer­i­can Games, in Li­ma, Pe­ru in Ju­ly.

The Glen "Fi­do" Fran­cis-coached re­cent­ly ben­e­fit­ed from a two-week train­ing camp with Eng­land-based na­tion­al play­er, Kwand­wane Browne who is al­so an as­sis­tant coach to the Eng­land se­nior men's hock­ey team.

Browne is com­ing off an im­pres­sive do­mes­tic sea­son in the In­vestec Eng­land Hock­ey Pre­mier Di­vi­sion, where he helped Hamp­stead & West­min­ster to the ti­tle, their first.

The Trinidad Guardian



Maties march over Kovsies

By Michael Owen


Maties celebration during Maties v Kovsies at UCT on 4 May

The opening round of day two of the South African Varsity Hockey, hosted by UCT saw Maties thump six goals past Kovsies, while Kovsies struggled to keep up with their two.

Maties made no mistake with an early short corner opportunity. Lenta Cullinan slapped one past Kovsies’ keeper Wiane Grobler.

Kovsies were quick to take the lead with Antonet Louw’s head-directed blow that seem to rattle the Maties keeper!

Spectators had to wait until the second half for more points when Aimee Pote placed Maties right back in the lead! Maties continued their goal-scoring with their skipper Paige Phillips increasing their lead at the end of the third quarter.

There were unreal scenes in the final quarter. Maties were down to just eight players because Maties were green-carded and Kovsies opted for their power play, but the lack of numbers did not stop Aimee Pote from bagging her second of the day.

FNB Player of the Match: Antonet Louw
Mugg & Bean Star Saver: Simone van der Colff
MTN Connect Award:  Aimee Pote

Scores (Note: a Field goal counts as two in this competition)
Maties: 6
Goals: Lenta Cullinan, Aimee Pote (2), Paige Phillips

Kovsies: 2
Goal: Antonet Louw

Teams
Maties: Kristen Block 3, Simone van der Colff 13, Paige Phillips (C) 8 , Sandisiwe Tabata 1 , Stephanie Botha 4, Lenta Cullinan 10, Fran Darkoh 20, Tammy Minnaar 6, Zola Nompuku 12 , Monique Bartsch 11, Lida Kotze 7, Jamie Southgate 2, Amaarah Hendricks 18, Lee-Ann Louwrens 5, Angela Welman 23 , Lara Stevens 24, Caitlin Odendaal 22 , Aimee Pote 9

Kovsies: Wiane Grobler 1, Chane. Hartel 2, Mikayla Clasasen 4, Anke Badenhorst 5, Casey Jean Botha 6, Shindré-Lee Simmons 7, Esté Van Schalkwyk 8, Nadia Van Staden 9, Antonet Louw 10, Michelle Ngoetjane 11, Olin Heraldine 12, Lizanne Jacobs 13, Rafilwe Ralikontsane 15, Mielanka Van Schalkwyk 16, Nela Mbedu 17, Simoné Gouws 18, Fracces Louw 20, Kia-Leigh Erasmus 23

Varsity Sports Media release



NWU come from behind to beat Wits 4-1

By Michael Owen


Team NWU during Wits v NWU at UCT on 4 May

Wits held the lead and the possession for the first half but the tides changed drastically in the second half as NWU led the trot from 1-0 down to a final score of 4-1.

Although there was lots of action on the field in the first quarter, both Wits and NWU were deadlocked at a goalless draw.

NWU were put on the back foot early into the second quarter when Lezaan Jansen van Vuuren scored for Wits off a short corner, taking a 1-0 lead.

Wits’ defence remained intact as NWU held most of the possession in the third quarter but were not able to convert their efforts into goals.

NWU would have held their breath when Wits’ missed out on an open goal opportunity.

Just before the end of the third quarter, NWU were able to equalise 1-1 thanks to a penalty stroke.

The start of the final quarter saw Wits fired up to go as they nearly scored just 20 seconds in but NWU keeper Caitlin Grant cleared the danger area.

To the dismay of Wits, NWU were awarded a second penalty stroke which Carli Pretorius successfully bagged to take a 2-1 lead for the first time in the match. NWU continued to apply the pressure as they netted a beautiful reverse stick to exponentially increase their lead to 4-1.

FNB Player of the Match: Lezaan Jansen van Vuuren
Mugg & Bean Star Saver: Caitlin Grant
MTN Connect Award: Jessica de Bruyn-Smith

Scores (Note: a Field goal counts as two in this competition)
Wits: 1
Goal: Lezaan Jansen van Vuuren

NWU: 4
Goals: Carli Pretorius (2), Saré Laubscher

Teams
Wits: Tamsin Copeland 1, Michelle Dykman2, Nolwazi Ngubane 3, Imogen Bangert 4, Lezaan Jansen van Vuuren 5, Angelique Pieterse 6, Nomnikelo Veto 7, Ashleigh Readhead 8, Mandisa Sigudla 9, Nompilo Thenjwayo 10, Ashleigh Datnow 11, Danielle Quin 12, Nolwazi Zondi 13, Erin Haupt 14, Lisa Bone 16, Johnson Storme 17, Rethabile Tsebiso 19, Sisipho Magwaza 24

NWU: Caitlin Grant 1, Mischka Ellis 2, Jessica de Bruyn-Smith 5, Kirsty Adams 6, Miecke Flemming 7, Mia Barnard 8, Adelaide Siddell 9, Meeghan Klomp 10, Kelsey Minnaar 11, Charné Maddocks 12, Carli Pretorius 13, Courtney Du Preez 15, Candice Silent 16, Chanté Ferreira 17, Saré Laubscher 19, Jacolene McLaren 22, Kutlwano Moshugi 23, Christa Ramasimong 24,

Varsity Sports Media release



UJ bring A game to beat reigning champions Tuks, 4-3

By Michael Owen


Pauline Jacobs of UJ during UJ v TUKS at UCT on 4 May

The power duo of Kristen Paton and Jivanka Kruger for UJ set a steady platform to beat Tuks 4-3 on Saturday evening at the UCT astro.

Tuks converted their first short corner opportunity to take the lead just 7 minutes into the first half.

Gabriella Terblanche was quick on the counter-attack with her field goal to peddle UJ into the lead – a lead which they were to hold on to for the remainder of the game. 

Deep into the game, Dinisha Coopoosamy slapped in a sliding shot far post to double UJ’s score to 4.

Tuks brought themselves right back into the game with Natalie Esteves dispatching a successful shortie, closing the gap to 4-2.

Natalie Esteves was on the money early for Tuks in the third quarter as they trailed UJ by just one.

Moments later unfortunately, the medics were brought onto the pitch to attend to Tuks’ player Thandokazi Chithi, who had to leave the field due to injury after she put her body on the line, taking a serious blow to the leg to defend a shot on target.

The crowd were entertained in the final quarter although no goals were conceded by either side, as the score remained 4-3 in favour of UJ.

FNB Player of the Match: Jivanka Kruger
Mugg & Bean Star Saver: Nadia Mattana
MTN Connect Award: Thandokazi Chithi

Scores (Note: a Field goal counts as two in this competition)
Tuks:3
Goals: Onthatile Zulu, Natalie Esteves (2)

UJ:4
Goals: Gabriella Terblanche, Dinisha Coopoosamy

Teams
Tuks: Megan Anderson (C)5, Aimée Anticevich 11, Thandokazi Chithi 17, Jean-Leigh du Toit 16, Natalie Esteves 15, Kaylin Fourie 10, Maxine Hannan 8, Anemé Jacobs 18, Lerato Mahole 14, Marizen Marais (VC) 7, Maikemisetso Marokoane 4, Jessica-Lee Redfern 21, Micaela Roos 20, Alexis Steyn 1, Demi Tait 23, Ashleigh Thomas 6, Mase Thotse 19, Onthatile Zulu 3

UJ: Nadia Mattana 1, Paula Rebelo 23, Jivanka Kruger 10, Phia Gerber 7, Lethabo Nkoe 16, Dinisha Coopoosamy 2, Tanika Schram 11, Celine Da Silva 3, Kristen Paton 8, Zeena Martin 4, Demi Harmse 13, Kelly Hewitt 18, Lisa Hawker 9, Gabriella Terblanche 14, Kaylim Bowers 15, Tenika Kriel 12, Thato May 5, Pauline Jacobs 6

Varsity Sports Media release



UCT clinch narrow 5-4 victory over Madibaz in close encounter

By Michael Owen



In a match that delivered in all respects, it was UCT who emerged victorious on Saturday night with a 5-4 win over Madibaz.

It was a busy first quarter, which included six short corners, but neither side managed a breakthrough. This was mostly due to the solid defence on display from both sides.

Despite the score remaining 0 apiece heading into halftime, the match was far from a slow and defensive performance. Both sides survived a barrage of short corners, displaying steel-wall-like defence. This was the first game in Varsity Hockey 2019 that saw zero goals scored in the first half.

The third quarter got underway with two goals scored in quick succession – one by either side. First up were the Madibaz who seemed undisturbed by a UCT crowd as they made the first breakthrough, placing them 2-0 up. UCT decided to show their worth, slapping a blow right past the keeper to square matters up again at 2-2.

The suspense continued to build as UCT and Madibaz headed into the final quarter of the match with the scores still locked at 2-2.

UCT made perfect use of their powerplay as Aaliyah Dollie netted a goal in the final 10 minutes of the game, edging the home side 4-2 for the first time in the game. UCT continued to increase their lead when captain Andrea Leader easily converted a penalty flick.

Madibaz’s use of the powerplay deep into the final minutes of the game boded well for them as Caitlin Brooks scored a goal, separating the teams with just a single point difference.

Madibaz were clawing their way back into the game but it was time up in Cape Town as hosts UCT walked away with their second win of the tournament.

FNB Player of the Match: Caitlin Van Goeverden
Mugg & Bean Star Saver: Tumishang Shirinde
MTN Connect Award: Jess Hutchinson

Scores (Note: a Field goal counts as two in this competition)
UCT: 5
Goal: Jess Hutchinson, Aaliyah Dollie, Andrea Leader

Madibaz: 4
Goals: Zhanique Sissing, Caitlin Brooks

Teams
UCT: Nope Serage 1, Rosi Church 3, Gillian Hermanus 4, Jess Hutchinson 6, Andrea Leader 7, Michelle Winter 8, Nicole Koenig 9, Chelsea Manoek 10, Clem Goldig 11, Francesca Vercellotti 12, Moletlo Somo 13, Michelle Tullus 14, Megan Pryce-Lewis 16, Courtney Wheeler 17, Modjadjl Maake 20, Candice Ewing 21, Cameron Beckett 24, Aaliyah Dollie 28

Madibaz: Kerryn Frost 1, Emma Fraser, 12 Hannah Knott-Craig 3, Lara Cunningham 5, Caitlin Van Goeverden 16, Britany Reddy 11, Staci Edwards 6, Kanyisa Gwata 8, Zhanique Sissing 4, Shaneal Fernandez 10, Awuraama Asmah-Andoh 15, Caitlin Brooks 17, Cassidy Holmes 21, Shae O’Reilly 20, Caitlin Gouws 7,  Emma Hobson 22, Sinead Walsh 9, Tumishang Shirinde 24

Varsity Sports Media release 



Shahbaz senior resigns as PHF secretary, former Olympian Asif Bajwa to take over

Imran Siddique



Shahbaz Ahmed Senior resigned from his post of Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) secretary as he could not give enough time to the federation due to his "assignment with PIA (Pakistan International Airlines)", PHF President Khalid Sajjad Khokhar said on Saturday.

In a video statement, Khokhar said that he had accepted Shahbaz's resignation and announced former Olympian Asif Bajwa as his replacement.

Lauding Shahbaz's services for the PHF, Khokhar said: "He (Shahbaz) spent about three-and-a-half years with me and worked beyond his [mandated] capacity."

Attempts by DawnNewsTV to reach Shahbaz for a comment were unsuccessful.
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Bajwa — who had resigned from the post of PHF secretary in 2013 — will take charge of his office on Monday, Khokhar said.

Shahbaz had turned in his resignation in December last year as well after Pakistan’s dismal show at the Hockey World Cup in India where they finished 11th. In his resignation letter, he had cited the government's alleged apathy towards hockey and said that there was no infrastructure for the national sport in the country. He had further said that the PHF had no asset or a system in place for the generation of funds.

The PHF had then turned down his resignation, however.

Dawn



Asif Bajwa replaces Shahbaz Sr as PHF secretary

Shahbaz in his around 40 months or so has done tremendous job but I feel time is ripe to let him focus on FIH assignments, as he also requested to relieve him,” says PHF chief

Mohsin Ali



ISLAMABAD    -   Pakistan Hockey Federation President Brig (R) Khalid Sajjad Khokhar has accepted the resignation of Secretary Olympian Shahbaz Ahmad Senior and appointed Olympian Asif Bajwa as new secretary of the federation from Monday.

The announcement came after Bajwa — who had resigned from the post of PHF secretary in 2013 –met with the PHF President Brig Khokhar at his residence on Saturday.

While talking to The Nation on Saturday Brig Khokhar confirmed that he had accepted Shahbaz’ resignation, which he had submitted few months back and thanked Shahbaz for his matchless contributions and efforts for Pakistan hockey and wish him best of luck for the FIH role.

He said as Shahbaz was focusing on the FIH role it was the best time to relieve him from the PHF. “Shahbaz in his around 40 months or so has done tremendous job but I feel time is ripe to let him focus on FIH assignments, as he also requested to relieve him.”

Brig Khokhar said, Asif Bajwa will take over PHF Lahore office from May 6th and will perform his official duties, as Bajwa had vast experience of previously working as secretary with Qasim Zia as President, I am sure he will utilize all his abilities to take Pakistan hockey back to same old glory days heights, it was although a tough decision for me to accept Shahbaz’s resignation, but we have to move forward and work jointly for the sake of hockey.

When this scribe contacted Shahbaz Senior to seek his point of view but despite repeated attempts to contact Shahbaz cell phone was powered off.

Interestingly, quite some time has passed when Shahbaz resigned from his post and he had also taken back his resignation and started to perform his duties as secretary as Brig Khokhar had made it very clear he won’t accept Shahbaz’s resignation. There was too much pressure from not only IPC Minister but also from Standing Committees as well but Brig Khokhar refused to melt down but all of a sudden something went wrong and things have moved so quickly.

Shahbaz had turned in his resignation in December last year as well after Pakistan’s dismal show at the hockey World Cup in India where they finished 11th. In his resignation, he had cited government’s alleged apathy towards hockey and said that there was no infrastructure for hockey in the country. He had further said that the PHF had no asset or a system in place for the generation of funds.

The Nation

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