News for 09 April 2015
All the news for Thursday 9 April 2015
Malaysia beat Asian champions India
By Jugjet Singh
MALAYSIA beat Asian Games champions India 3-2 in a thrilling Azlan Shah Cup match in Ipoh yesterday, to keep their hopes alive of playing in the final.
Coach Tai Beng Hai's men played well in patches, and took the lead twice only to give India back a life-line on both occassions, but Shahrun Nabil nailed a late winner in the 58th minute and now, Malaysia must beat South Korea today, and Canada on Saturday for an outside shot at playing in the final.
The game was delayed by an hour due to torrential rain, and after the negaraku, Malaysian goalkeeper S. Kumar @Spiderman was rewarded for his 250th international appearance.
Malaysia were ontop of India in the first quarter, but failed to break the deadlock.
Faizal Saari, who skipped two months of training, missed a sitter in the opening minutes of the match, but made up with a penalty corner goal.
Baljit Singh dribbled three India players and made a reverse stick pass to Faizal who made a darting run into the semi-circle but failed to shoot straight. For the record, Faizal scored 12 goals in the World League Round Two in Singapore but scored his first in three matches yesterday.
It was a 17th minute penalty corner, Malaysia's first, and Faizal's drag flick almost tore the netting.
But three minutes later, India won their first penalty corner and a low push by Rupinder Singh beat the postman for the equaliser, and the score remained until the half-time break.
After the re-start, Malaysia claimed the lead again when a move from Firhan Ashari found unmarked Haziq Samsul who tucked in from close range in the 35th minute for 2-1.
Malaysia made too many mistakes in the fourth quarter and gave away easy penalty cornees and in the 50th minute, India won their fifth and Rupinder equalised with a powerful drive.
Shahrun Nabil had the last say in the 58th minute, when he scored a classic goal to give Malaysia a well deserved win.
Malaysia play South Korea today, but Korean coach Shin Seok Kyo failed to show up for the press conference .. for the second time in a row.
Shin was warned by the tournament director for missing the press conference after the Canada match on Monday, but he still refused to show up for interview yesterday.
New Zealand and Australia have maximum points after three matches, and barring upsets in the remaining two matches, the Oceania neighbours will play in the final on Sunday.
Yesterday, the Kiwis trashed Canada 5-0, while Australia easily beat South Korea 5-2 with a hat-trick from Jamie Dwyer, who helped the Aussies win their second consecutive World Cup title last year.
Today, Australia and New Zealand clash and a draw will see them play in the final. Australia have India as their final opponents, while New Zealand face South Korea on Saturday.
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
AUSTRALIA 3 3 0 0 15 4 9
N ZEALAND 3 3 0 0 11 3 9
S KOREA 3 1 1 2 7 8 4
MALAYSIA 3 1 0 2 7 9 3
INDIA 3 0 1 2 5 7 1
CANADA 3 0 0 3 1 15 0
RESULTS: Canada 0 New Zealand 5, South Korea 1 Australia 5, Malaysia 3 India 2.
April 9: India v Canada (4pm), New Zealand v Australia (6pm), Malaysia v South Korea (8pm).
April 10: REST DAY.
April 11: Australia v India (4pm), South Korea v New Zealand (6pm), Malaysia v Canada (8pm).
New Straits Times
Late, late show by Malaysia in Sultan Azlan Shah Cup
By S. Ramaguru
Malaysia's Mohd Shahrun Nabil in esctasy after scoring the winning goal in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup match against India in Ipoh on Wednesday. - SAIFUL BAHRI/ The STAR
IPOH: Malaysia left it late to secure their first win in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup competition.
It took a 58th minute goal by Mohd Shahrun Nabil for Malaysia to beat India 3-2 in their third match at the Azlan Shah Stadium here on Wednesday.
Faizal Saari had earlier given Malaysia a 1-0 lead in the 17th minute before Rupinder Pal Singh equalised for India three minutes later.
Mohd Haziq Shamsul restored Malaysia’s lead in the third quarter but again Rupinder came to India’s rescue in the 51st minute.
Malaysia now have three points to be placed fourth in the six-team standings. Australia top the standings with nine points, the same as second-placed New Zealand. South Korea are third with four points.
Before the match began, Malaysian goalkeeper S. Kumar was presented with a plaque to commemorate his 250th cap.
Both teams were evenly matched in the early stages but it was Malaysia who had the best chance to take the lead in the fifth minute. Forward Faizal was put through and, after beating the Indian defenders, pulled his shot wide with only the goalkeeper to beat.
But Faizal made amends in the 17th minute, making no mistake with his penalty corner drag flick.
The lead, however, lasted just three minutes. India also earned their first penalty corner and Rupinder had enough power with his drag flick to beat Kumar.
Malaysia had to wait till the third quarter to regain their lead. Off a quick counter attack, Malaysia managed to get the ball into the D and Mohd Firhan Azhaari did well to pass the ball to Mohd Haziq to score from an acute angle.
Mohamed Razie was shown the yellow car in the 37th minute and India gained their second penalty corner – but to no avail.
India earned two more penalty corners in the fourth quarter – in the 46th and 47th minutes – and it took some desperate defending by Malaysia to keep the Indians at bay.
But there was no stopping India when they earned their fifth penalty corner in the 51st minute as Rupinder scored his second of the match with another direct drag flick.
Thankfully for Malaysia, Mohd Shahrun settled the issue with the late effort after receiving a through pass from Faizal.
National coach Tai eng Hai said that they were able to learn form the earlier two matches and put them to good use.
“It was not an easy match but the players were determined to get a result. There was a much better effort form the players and we also created some very good chances.
“The next match against the South Koreans will be tough as well. We have to understand that all the teams are looking ahead at the World Hockey League and are trying their best to get important data from these matches… we have to keep our focus.”
India coach Paul van Ass admitted that they did not take their chances in the last quarter.
“We have six penalty corner attempts and scored two. That is a good rate. But we did not have a good first quarter and that affected us.”
The Star of Malaysia
Sultan Azlan Shah Cup going the Oceania way
By S. Ramaguru
Canada hockey team keeper Antoni Kindler goes down to stop the ball from going into goal during the match against New Zealand at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup on Wednesday. - SAIFUL BAHRI/ The STAR
IPOH: Oceania rivals Australia and New Zealand are well on the way to the final of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup after notching three convincing wins each.
World No. 1 Australia saw off South Korea 5-2 while world No. 7 New Zealand disposed of Canada 5-0 in the early matches at the Azlan Shah Stadium here on Wednesday.
Both teams have nine points after three matches but defending champions Australia top the standings with better goal difference.
Jamie Dwyer, Australia’s most capped player, continued his fine form by scoring the first hat-trick of the tournament. His goals – in the 18th, 45th and 48th minutes – took his tally to six in three matches.
Mark Knowlles (22nd minute) and Eddie Ockenden (23rd) added one each for Australia.
The South Koreans had earlier taken the lead in the 17th minute through Kim Eong-kyu while Jang Jung-hyun reduced the deficit in the 54th minute.
Australia team manager Paul Gaudoin felt that the team did well to collect full points.
“The Koreans are tough to play against and justified their world number eight ranking,” he said.
“But credit to our players for taking their chances. They did what they were supposed to do and we are pleased with the way we moved the ball round.
“We are not thinking of the final yet. We are focused on the next game and that’s New Zealand.”
Earlier, the Kiwis had little trouble overcoming Canada 5-0.
Blair Hilton gave the Kiwis the lead in the 26th minute off a field attempt before Hugo Inglis added the second in the 41st minute through a penalty corner flick.
Inglis was also on target with the fourth goal in the 45th minute.
The other scorers were Simon Child (44th) and Shay Neal (59th).
New Zealand coach Colin Batch admitted that they were slow to get going “but better finishing in the third quarter helped us to a big win”.
Canadian coach Anthony Farry was disappointed with the result.
“We just didn’t play well enough and gave away some silly goals. The Kiwis are a good team and certainly deserved their win,” he said.
Canada play India on Thursday while the Kiwis have a date with the world champions
The Star of Malaysia
Australia, NZ continue winning run in Azlan Shah Cup
IPOH (Malaysia): Defending champions Australia and New Zealand continued their unbeaten run in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup by thrashing Korea 5-1 and lowly Canada 5-0 respectively in their league matches on the third day of the hockey tournament on Wednesday.
After these wins, Australia and New Zealand have now garnered maximum nine points each from three outings, while Korea have four points and Canada are yet to open their account.
In the match between world champions Australia and Korea, veteran striker Jamie Dwyer (18th minute, 45th, 48th) scored a hat-trick while skipper Mark Knowles (22nd) converted a penalty corner and Eddie Ockenden scored from a field effort to hand Australia their third straight win in the six-nation tournament.
Korea's both goals came from penalty corners through Seongkyu Kim (17th) and Jobghyun Jang (54th).
In the first match of the day, Hugo Inglis (41st minute, 45th) scored twice to hand New Zealand their third consecutive win in the tournament.
The Blacksticks, however, found it difficult to break the Canada defence initially as their first goal came in the 26th minute through a field strike from Blair Hilton before Inglis scored from a penalty corner.
Skipper Simon Child made it 3-0 in the 44th minute before Inglis scored his second goal of the day. Shay Neal rounded off the scoreline for the Blacksticks a minute from the final hooter with a field goal.
New Zealand play Australia on Thursday while Canada will be up against Korea.
The Times of India
Ghost of last minute goal taunts India
Tazeen Qureshy
India’s third match against Malaysia in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup was a repeat of a similar story all over again -- the same mistakes of conceding last minute goals and not availing scoring opportunities, not to forget the penalty corner conversions.
After drawing their first match against South Korea and losing their second against New Zealand, the match against Malaysia was a must win for India, in order to remain in contention for the final.
But, once again the ghost of last minute goals haunted India and it lost 2-3 against the hosts, owing to the winner scored by Shahrun Abdullah with two minutes left for the final hooter.
Unlike the last two matches, India, in this match, created more chances, and made more mistakes too.
In the first quarter, which was by and large dominated by Malaysia, Ramandeep Singh made first mistake after he failed to capitalize on the efforts of V.R. Raghunath and Akashdeep Singh.
Malaysia, on the other hand, gave India the first jolt, when a back pass meant for Birendra Lakra, went a little high, finding Faizal Saari, who tried a solo but couldn’t beat P.R. Sreejesh.
After a goalless first quarter, Malaysia increased their attack, resulting in a penalty corner, their first in the 17th minute. Faizal Saari doesn’t disappoint the crowd and scored the first goal with ease.
Desperate in their attempt to equalize, India tried to bounce back, getting a penalty corner in the 19th minute. Rupinderpal Singh took it for India and equalized the score.
Malaysia earned its second penalty corner in the next minute but failed to succeed. With two minutes to go for the half-time, Dharamvir’s solo surprised Malaysia, as he snatched the ball while the two players were passing along to each other. He gave a good ball to Ramandeep Singh, who hit straightaway in the direction of the goalkeeper, giving him an easy save.
Post half-time, with barely five minutes into the game, Haziq Samsul ran past three Indian players, misguiding Sreejesh before putting the ball into the net for the second goal.
Two minutes later, in a captain’s duel, Indian skipper Sardar Singh was pushed by Malaysian skipper Razie Rahim, which gave India a penalty corner while punishing Razie with a yellow card.
As the game started in the fourth quarter, India missed out on two quick penalty corner chances, before finally converting the fifth one in the 51st minute, thereby equalizing the score.
In what looked like the match that was heading towards a draw, Shahrun Abdullah hammered the final nail in the 58th minute, much to the excitement of the crowd.
With that goal, India not just lost the match, but also the chance to remain in contention for the final match.
Stick2Hockey.com
India lose another nail-biter, this time to Malaysia
The Indian team failed to make the opportunities count, and then buckled under pressure. Hockey India
Ipoh (Malaysia) - India yet again paid the price for some sloppy defending, conceding a late goal to lose 2-3 to lower-ranked Malaysia and crash out of the title race of the 24th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament here today.
As has been the story in this tournament for India, the Sardar Singh-led side wasted numerous opportunities and their fragile backline broke under pressure at crucial junctures. India conceded a goal with two minutes from the end to lose the match.
Faizaal Saari (17th minute), Haziq Samsul (35th) and Shahrun Abdullah (58th) scored the goals to hand Malaysia their first win in the tournament after two consecutive defeats. For India, Rupinder Pal Singh (20th, 51st) converted two penalty corners but it was not enough to give new chief coach Paul van Ass his first taste of victory. With just one point from three games, India are out of the race for Sunday's final.
The match began after almost an hours delay after heavy rains and lightening struck the stadium minutes before the scheduled start.
Compared to their first two games, the Indians did not have the best of starts as Malaysia fought stick to stick to give their opponents some tough time. It was a slugfest in the initial few minutes of the match as both the teams tried hard to take control of the proceedings.
In the 11th minute, Satbir Singh squandered a bright chance when he failed to capitalise on a pass inside the opposition circle. Minutes later, V R Raghunath set it up for Akashdeep Singh with some brilliant stick work but the latter's reverse hit was kept out by an agile Malaysian goalkeeper Kumar Subramiam, who was playing his 250th international match.
Some sloppy defending saw India concede a penalty corner in the 17th minute and Saari made full use of the chance by converting it with a low powerful flick to the left of India custodian P R Sreejesh. Minutes later, another defensive error, this time by Rupinder, gave Malaysia another golden chance but Sreejesh came to India's rescue by denying Saari.
In the very next move, India secured their first penalty corner which was converted by Rupinder to level the scores. India had another chance with S K Uthappa and Gurbaj Singh setting it up for Satbir with a fine one-two but the striker hit it straight to the Malaysian goalkeeper.
Ramandeep Singh's poor show in the tournament continued as he missed an open chance two minutes from halfway break. With ample time to pick his spot, an unmarked Ramandeep hit the ball straight to the Malaysian goalkeeper from close range as both the team went into the breather locked at 1-1.
The Indians continued to miss chances, as four minutes into the second half Akashdeep shot wide from top of the D. Sloppy defending inside their circle cost India dearly as Malaysia restored their lead in the 35th minute through Haziq Samsul's field effort.
India got another penalty corner in the third quarter but Rupinder wasted the chance. Trailing by a goal, India came out all guns blazing in the fourth quarter and managed to earn three penalty corners in quick succession, the last of which was converted by Rupinder.
It was open, end to end hockey in the last 10 minutes of the game as the two teams went on the offensive in search of the winner. India gave everything for the winner and in the 54th minute came close to securing the lead but the striking duo of Akashdeep and Ramandeep failed to get a stick to Gurbaj's brilliant cross from the right flank.
The Indians had another chance when Kothajit Singh set it up for Uthappa, whose initial shot was saved by the Malaysian goalkeeper, only to fall in front of Ramandeep, who pushed it wide.
Two minutes later, it was all over for India as Abdullah scored the winner for Malaysia after cashing in on a defensive mistake by Gurbaj inside the circle.
The Tribune
India concede late goal against Malaysia, out of title race
IPOH (Malaysia): India yet again paid the price of some sloppy defending and conceded a late goal to lose 2-3 to lower-ranked Malaysia and crash out of the title race of the 24th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament here on Wednesday.
As has been the story in this tournament for India, the Sardar Singh-led side wasted numerous scoring opportunities and their fragile backline broke down under pressure at crucial junctures. India conceded a goal with two minutes remaining in the match to lose the match.
Faizaal Saari (17th minute), Haziq Samsul (35th) and Shahrun Abdullah (58th) scored the goals to hand Malaysia their first win in the tournament after two consecutive defeats.
For India, Rupinder Pal Singh (20th, 51st) converted two penalty corners but it was not enough to give new chief coach Paul van Ass his first taste of victory.
With just one point from three games, India are out of the race for Sunday's final.
India play lowly Canada on Thursday before facing world champions Australia on Saturday, while Malaysia will be up against Korea.
The match began after almost an hours' delay as heavy rains and lightening struck the stadium minutes before the scheduled start.
Compared to their first two games, the Indians did not have the best of starts as Malaysia fought stick to stick to give their opponents some tough time.
The initial few minutes of the match was a midfield slugfest as both the tams tried hard to take control of the proceedings. The Malaysians looked sharper and threatening and were the first to attempt on the goal but Faizal Saar's reverse hit in the fifth minute was just off the target.
In the 11th minute, Satbir Singh squandered a bright chance when he failed to capitalize on a pass by fumbling the opportunity inside the opposition circle.
Minutes later, V R Raghunath set it up for Akashdeep Singh with some brilliant stick work but the latter's reverse hit was kept out by an agile Malaysian goalkeeper Kumar Subramiam, who is playing in his 250th international match.
Sloppy defending saw India concede a penalty corner in the 17th minute and Saari made full use of the chance by converting it with a low powerful flick to the left of India custodian P R Sreejesh.
Minutes later, another defensive error, this time by Rupinder, gave Malaysia another golden chance but Sreejesh came to India's rescue by denying Saari.
In the very next move, India secured their first penalty corner which was perfectly converted by Rupinder to level the scores.
India had another chance soon with S K Uthappa and Gurbaj Singh setting it up for Satbir with a fine one-two but the striker hit it straight to the Malaysian goalkeeper.
Ramandeep Singh's poor show in the tournament continued as he missed an open chance two minutes from halfway break. With ample time to pick his spot, an unmarked Ramandeep hit the ball straight to the Malaysian goalkeeper from close range as both the team went into the breather locked at 1-1.
The Indians continued to miss chances, as four minutes into the second half Akashdeep shot wide from top of the D. Sloppy defending inside their circle cost India dearly as Malaysia restored their lead in the 35th minute through Haziq Samsul's field effort.
India got another penalty corner in the third quarter but Rupinder wasted the chance.
Trailing by a goal, India came out with all guns blazing in the fourth quarter and managed to earn three penalty corners in quick succession, the last of which was converted by Rupinder.
It was open, end to end hockey in the last 10 minutes of the game as both the teams went for the offensive in search of the winner. India gave everything for the winner and in the 54th minute came close to securing the lead by the striking duo of Akashdeep and Ramandeep but failed to get a stick to Gurbaj's brilliant cross from the right flank.
The Indians had another chance when Kothajit Singh set it up for Uthappa, whose initial shot was saved by the Malaysian goalkeeper only to fell in front of Ramandeep's sticks who pushed wide.
Two minutes later, it was all over for India as Abdullah scored the winner for Malaysia after cashing on a defensive mistake by Gurbaj inside the circle
The Times of India
We gave it away again: Paul van Ass
IPOH (Malaysia): A lackluster India on Wednesday suffered their second consecutive defeat to crash out of the title race of Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament and chief coach Paul van Ass expressed his unhappiness over the performance of his players, saying that for the second day on the trot they gave away the match to the opposition.
Missed chances and sloppy defending continued to haunt India in the tournament as they yet again conceded a late goal to lose 2-3 to lower-ranked Malaysia at the Azlan Shah Stadium here.
"No, I am not happy with the performance. I am especially not happy with the way we started," Van Ass replied when asked about the performance of his players.
"I was happy with the performance against Korea. That was a matured game. I was relatively happy with the performance against New Zealand. We gave away that game in the end. But today we gave it away again. That's the story which we have to solve," a visibly disappointed Van Ass said.
"Our performance in the first two quarters was very poor. Our scoring rate is very low. We had a lot of field chances today. Against New Zealand as well there were a lot of chances. If you put them in the problem is solved but there is something wrong which we have to analyze and solve," he added.
Faizaal Saari (17th minute), Haziq Samsul (35th) and Shahrun Abdullah (58th) scored the goals to hand Malaysia their first win in the tournament after two consecutive defeats.
For India Rupinder Pal Singh (20th, 51st) converted two penalty corners but it was not enough to give Van Ass his first taste of victory.
"Towards the end we pushed for the third goal. The mindset was to try and score the third goal. But there we lost little bit of control and this can happens which is not good," Van Ass said about the goal which India conceded two minutes from the final hooter.
With just one point from three games, India are out of the race for Sunday's final.
India next play lowly Canada before facing world champions Australia on Saturday, while Malaysia will be up against Korea on Thursday.
Van Ass said from here every match is important for him to build the team for next year's Olympics but warned Indian fans to keep realistic expectation in Rio.
"Everyone in India is expecting a medal from us in Rio. We are number nine in the world and you can see the reason why we are number nine in the world. My personal plan is to have a good camp in the summer time where we can work on several aspects.
"Then we have Hockey World League 3 where we should pick up some good results. For me the real test will be the Hockey World League Final in December where we will compete against the best eight of the world. That will give us a measurement as whether we have real chance in Rio," the Dutchman said.
"Everybody expect us to beat Canada (tomorrow) but I am not convinced. We have to take it from where we left it. Every game is important because every game gives me information to work on the areas and at the moment that is far more important than the result," Van Ass signed off.
The Times of India
Jude Felix: Part of the learning Curve
Tazeen Qureshy
Visibly disappointed with the way India played against Malaysia today, assistant coach Jude Felix says the only positive that can be drawn from this tournament is the fact that the defeat has come at an ‘early’ stage of preparation.
Jude, a gold medal winner in the competition when he was part of the 1991 Azlan Shah Cup under Balkrishan Singh, was practical in his views.
“We are preparing for the Olympics. So, it’s better that these things happen at an early stage, than happen closer to the Olympics. If the mistakes happen closer to the Olympics, it would be disastrous. That is the only positive I can get from the tournament,” said Jude after India lost to Malaysia 2-3.
Hovering on the sloppy defense that cost India a late goal, he said the ample opportunities missed during the game cost the match more than the late goal.
“More than the last goal that we conceded, it is about the opportunities we wasted. Had we capitalized on them, we would not have been in that position. In today’s hockey, miss the chances you create and you end up in a situation like this. The problem is not scoring in front. We need to be sharper in the D. Also, the other problem was not converting the penalty corner,” he said.
With the loss in this match, India is already out of contention for Sunday’s final. They have two more matches to go against Canada on April 9, followed by match against defending champions Australia on April 11.
“We will have to go down to the board again and start working all over again now. It is a part of the learning curve,” he added.
Stick2Hockey.com
Dwyer hits hat-trick
Jamie Dwyer scores goals 210, 211 and 212 as Kookas beat Korea 5-2
Jamie Dwyer continued his good form in front of goal as his hat-trick led the Kookaburras to a 5-2 victory over Korea at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup on Wednesday. The three-time Olympian, later named Man of the Match, was joined on the score sheet by fellow Olympic gold medallist, captain Mark Knowles, and Eddie Ockenden, who struck his 60th goal for Australia.
The result keeps the Kookaburras top of the standings after three matches, ahead of second place New Zealand Black Sticks on goal difference .The trans-Tasman rivals meet on Thursday evening.
It was a performance of which Head Coach Graham Reid declared he “couldn’t fault their attitude and endeavour”, although he cautioned “we can’t expect to win tournaments giving away 11 corners [in a match]. That’s something to work on.”
On Jamie Dwyer’s early form, Reid said, “He’s been hanging at the bit to play for Australia again. It’s good to see him keen. All the things we spoke about in November, we’re seeing the right actions here.”
Following a goalless opening quarter of an hour the Kookaburras found themselves behind to Seongkyu Kim’s penalty corner goal two minutes into the second quarter but Dwyer’s strike a minute later restored parity.
Missing forward Glenn Turner, who suffered a pectoral injury in training earlier in the day, Australia went ahead through captain Mark Knowles’ goal from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute. And a minute later Tasmanian Eddie Ockenden doubled the advantage with his 60th goal for the Kookaburras.
On the stroke of three-quarter time Dwyer struck again from a penalty corner and the 36 year-old forward completed his hat-trick soon after the restart. Korea pulled one back from a penalty corner through Jonghyun Jang six minutes from time, a reward for their persistence in winning 11 corners in the match.
Reid added, “We’re doing a lot of learning here, which is part of it. We had a good session on set plays today and we saw some of that tonight. It’s [about taking] slow baby steps at the moment.”
Looking ahead to the clash with New Zealand Black Sticks, Reid said, “They’re playing very well. They’re looking sharp and it’s going to be a tough encounter. We’re looking forward to it.”
The Kookaburras’ fourth match of the Sultan Azlan Shah will be against New Zealand on Thursday 9 April, 8:10pm AEST/6:10pm AWST. The match will be shown on delay on Eurosport at 3:30pm AEST on Friday.
Following his injury, Glenn Turner will play no further part in the tournament.
Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, Ipoh (MAS)
Match 3 v Korea
KOOKABURRAS: 5 (3)
Jamie Dwyer 18, 45, 48 (FG, PC, FG)
Mark Knowles 22 (PS)
Eddie Ockenden 23 (FG)
KOREA: 2 (1)
Seongkyu Kim 17 (PC)
Jonghyun Jang 54 (PC)
Kookaburras squad v Korea
Name (Hometown/State) Caps/Goals
Started
Daniel Beale (Brisbane, QLD) 47/8
Tristan Clemons (GK) (Ferndale, WA) 13/0
Matthew Dawson (Central Coast, NSW) 13/0
Jamie Dwyer (Rockhampton, QLD) 324/212
Matt Gohdes (Rockhampton, QLD) 113/32
Jeremy Hayward (Darwin, NT) 30/10
Mark Knowles (C) (Rockhampton, QLD) 248/21
Glenn Simpson (Melbourne, VIC) 121/22
Jake Whetton (Brisbane, QLD) 81/34
Tristan White (Wollongong, NSW) 47/3
Aran Zalewski (Margaret River, WA) 49/4
Used Substitute
Nick Budgeon (Hobart, TAS) 31/12
Tim Cross (Eaglemont, VIC) 3/1
Trent Mitton (Perth, WA) 65/20
Eddie Ockenden (Hobart, TAS) 234/60
Dylan Wotherspoon (Murwillumbah, QLD) 7/2
Leon Hayward (GK) (Darwin, NT) 4/0
Did Not Play
Glenn Turner (Goulburn, NSW) 114/79
Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Standings
1. Australia (9 points, 3 games)
2. New Zealand (9 points, 3 games)
3. Korea (4 points, 3 games)
4. Malaysia (3 points, 3 games)
5. India (1 point, 3 games)
6. Canada (0 points, 3 games)
Kookaburras’ Sultan Azlan Shah remaining fixtures
Thursday 9 April – Kookaburras v New Zealand – 8:10pm AEST
Saturday 11 April – Kookaburras v India– 6:10pm AEST
Sunday 12 April – Final 10:40pm AEST / Bronze 8:10pm AEST / 5th-6th 5:40pm AEST
Sultan Azlan Shah competing teams
Australia (World ranking #1)
Canada (#15)
Korea (#8)
India (#9)
Malaysia (#12)
New Zealand (#7)
Hockey Australia media release
Black Sticks Men crush Canada at Azlan Shah
Man of the Match Hugo Inglis (r) was influential for the Black Sticks
The Black Sticks Men have continued their winning streak with an emphatic 5-0 rout over Canada at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia.
Leading by one goal at halftime, the Kiwis put together a highlight reel of hockey late in the third quarter with three goals in four minutes.
A double from man of the match Hugo Inglis and another strike from captain Simon Child took Canada out of contention in a matter of minutes.
The result sees the Black Sticks solidify a good spot with three wins from three tests with two round robin games still to play against Australia and Korea.
Head coach Colin Batch said the result has given them a great platform at the tournament that they need to capitalise on.
“We scouted Canada well and stuck to the game plan. It took us a little bit to really get into the game but we put a lot of pressure on them and overran them in the third quarter,” he said.
“We’ve been working on our combinations a lot lately and the players certainly have a lot of trust in each other which showed in some of those goals.
“So far we’ve played ourselves into a really good position at the tournament, so we’re in good shape going into the Australia game which we are all looking forward to.”
The Black Sticks controlled the majority of possession in the first half but found little reward on the scoreboard for their dominance.
Four minutes out from halftime striker Blair Hilton found the breakthrough, taking the ball from left to right around the goalkeeper before drilling home off his reverse stick.
Coming out of the break the momentum stuck with the Kiwis as they began to put the hammer down and run the Canadians around the turf.
Inglis sparked his side in the third quarter when he flicked home a goal after a penalty corner variation went out to Stephen Jenness on the right post before sending a ball across the face of goal to Inglis.
Captain Simon Child finished a great team goal in the 44th minute off the back off a George Muir run through midfield and quick pass into the circle from James Coughlan.
Inglis then scored his double less than a minute later after a scything run into the circle left him one on one with the keeper for a reverse flick into the back of the net.
Shay Neal capped off a dominant performance three minutes out from fulltime with a solid finish on another phase of well worked team play.
The Black Sticks face another tough challenge tomorrow night against trans-Tasman rivals Australia, with live coverage from 10pm on SKY Sport 1.
BLACK STICKS 5: (Hugo Inglis x2, Blair Hilton, Simon Child, Shay Neal)
CANADA 0
Halftime: Black Sticks 1-0
Hockey New Zealand Media release
S. Kumar weaves his web
By Jugjet Singh
ASIA'S number one goalkeeper S. Kumar is now officially the new Spiderman of Malaysia.
The accolade was first given to soccer legend R. Arumugam who defended the soccer goalmouth in the 70s. Kumar rightfully earned the title on Monday when he defended with tenacity to help Malaysia keep their heads high in a thrilling 3-2 defeat to Australia in the Azlan Shah Cup.
World number 12 Malaysia had a fairytale match and Australia had to dig deep into their reserves with World Cup star Jamie Dwyer, brought out from retirement, using all his experience before finally beating Kumar with a penalty stroke and then a field goal.
The Spiderman, from Tampin Negri Sembilan, saved at least eight point blank shots and six penalty corner attempts to frustrate Australia. For the record, Australia retained the 2014 World Cup by hammering Olympic Silver medallists the Netherlands 6-1. Dwyer scored the sixth goal at the Haque final.
"The feeling is great as not only I, but the entire team played good hockey against Australia but at the same time Im also frustrated because we came close to stealing a point but lost out on experience to the world champions," said Kumar.
At the Hague, Australia were high up almost touching the stars, while Kumar and his mates finished rooted at the bottom.
Kumar took Malaysia into the World Cup when he defended his goalmouth from Japan strikers like a lion in the World League Semifinals penalty shoot-out in Johor Baru. And in January, he was there again to stop Japan in a penalty shoot-out in the semi-finals of the World League Round Two to take Malaysia into the WL Semi-finals in Belgium.
Belgium offers tickets to the Rio de Janeiro Olympics: "Ive never played in the Olympics and with age fast catching up
With me, Belgium could be my last chance and Im not about to cave in without giving my very best," said Kumar, 35.
Last year Malaysia were hammered 8-3 by Australia in the final of the Azlan Shah Cup but Kumar did not play in the tournament as he had personal matters to attend to.
Juniors goalkeeper Hafizuddin Othman was the gatekeeper then, and Australia had a field beating the kid who made his Azlan Shah Cup debut.
Former national coach K. Dharmaraj who is now a National Sports Council development coach, is in Ipoh for the tournament and lamented on the lack of a capable replacement when Kumar retires.
"Kumar is among the best goalkeepers in the world right now, but sadly we do not have a capable replacement when he decides to call it a day. There are many juniors who aspire to become goalkeepers and some have been sent to the Netherlands right as we speak to make them on par or even better than Kumar. But it will take time and Im afraid there will be a big vacuum for years in the goalkeeping department and that could mean trouble for the national team. Goalkeeping is a special department that needs urgent attention because a country which is weak in that department can never break into the top five in the world," said Dharmaraj.
Malaysia play India today and another defeat could see the silver medallists fighting to avoid the last spot in Ipoh.
India coach Paul van Ass is confident his men will prevail: "India played well in both the matches but did not get the desired results as even though the my player have good skills, I still need to strenghten the tactical and mental side of the game and that's what we are here for. Malaysia are a very challenging side but I believe we have the advantage."
Asian Games champions India have already qualified for the Olympics, so they can afford to experiment with their new coach van Ass in Ipoh as well as the World League Semifinals in Belgium.
For Malaysia, the Azlan Shah Cup is the last avenue for top exposure before heading to Belgium in June for a shot at Olympic glory which the country last experienced in Sydney 2000.
Jugjet's World of Field Hockey
James Coughlan Hoping to Avenge Cricket World Cup Loss vs Australia
A professional cricketer himself, James Coughlan, has played against the likes of cricket stars including Corey Anderson. But when a call for the national hockey camp came his way, he didn't think twice before opting for hockey.
by Tazeen Qureshy
File photo of James Coughlan. © NDTV
The cricket Word Cup is over long back, but 24-year old James Coughlan, a hockey player from New Zealand can't simply get over the embarrassing seven-wicket defeat his country faced in the final against Australia. Currently, in Ipoh, Malaysia to play the 24th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, he hopes to avenge the cricket loss through hockey, when his Blacksticks team faces Australia on April 9.
"Australia smashed us in the cricket World Cup final. It was quite embarrassing to watch it. We were no way close to them in that game. Australia played very well. But hopefully, we can reverse that in hockey," said James Coughlan.
"But, let us not forget, Australia is the champions in hockey too," he added.
A professional cricketer himself, James Coughlan, has played against the likes of cricket stars including Corey Anderson. But when a call for the national hockey camp came his way, he didn't think twice before opting for hockey.
"I have played U-19 regional level cricket. In a regional tournament I have also played against Corey Anderson and other top New Zealand players. When I finished school, I had to choose between hockey and cricket. Of course, there is more money in cricket than hockey. But when the call for national hockey camp came, I chose hockey over cricket. Today, I am pleased with my decision. There is no better feeling than to play for your country."
New Zealand, so far, have won all their three matches against Malaysia, India and Canada. They will next play Australia on April 9, followed by South Korea on April 11.
NDTV Sport
Stat Speak: India-Canada: Highlights
By B.G.Joshi
Sehore-Bhopal, India - Wins against Canada, India may be in the bronze medal match. Here are brief highlights of India-Canada in Hockey:
*Till date, total 33 matches had played, India wins 23; Canada wins 7; remaining 3 were drawn. Indian scored 89 goals, whereas Canadian netted 55. Last played in New Delhi Olympic Qualifier in Feb 2012, India wins 3-2.
* In Azlan Shah Cup, both team met thrice, scores were 1-1(1995); 3-2(2000) and 3-1(2008) in India’s favour.
* India’s biggest ever win: 7-3 in Esanda Cup; Perth; 1979. Canada biggest ever win: 4-1 in World Cup; Utrecht; 1998.Canada’s best finish is 8th in World Cup in Utrecht-1998.
*Alan Brahmst shown middle finger to Indians after Canadian’s 4-1 triumph. Alan was perturbed in Barcelona Olympic Qualifier (Jan 1996, for Atlanta Olympics 1996), in last league match India played goalless match to Malaysia. Malaysia earned a crucial one point for entry in Atlanta Olympics leaving behind Canada.
*In Auckland Olympic Qualifier (Oct 1991, for Barcelona Olympics 1992), in last pool match Malaysia beat Belgium 5-3, which confirmed India entry in Barcelona Olympics.
* Present Canadian captain Adam Froese had an option to represent either of 3 nations in Hockey. Being born and stayed for 3 years in KL-Malaysia, then move to his mother’s residence at Perth (Australia) and played hockey for U-18. Lastly he went to his father Howard Froese ‘s motherland Canada. Adam obtained his first cap versus India in Canada-India test series in 2009.
* India beats Canada 5-3; Goals scorers are Ramandeep 2 (46,47), Raghunath (32), Rupinderpal (13),Satbir(49) Oliver (43), Jagdish(49), Jameson (52). Now India has a uphill task to beat mighty Australia on Saturday to play the bronze medal match on Sunday.
Fieldhockey.com
‘I envision taking Indian team up in rankings’
Uthra Ganesan
The Indian women’s hockey team left for the eight-nation Hawkes Bay Cup tournament in New Zealand on Tuesday without the chief coach.
Bereft of one since Neil Hawgood’s contract ended in December, the team, however, may well have the services of new coach Mathias Ahrens in Auckland.
German Ahrens, currently in Canada, is in talks with Hockey India to fly directly to the tournament and look at the team in competition against some of the best teams in the world.
“I am looking forward to meet the players, the coaches and management team and starting work soon. I discussed with Roelant Oltmans the option to fly out to the Hawkes tournament and look to find a time to join the team. Of course, there is some paper work to complete which will determine my arrival in India for the World League semifinals preparation camp,” Ahrens told The Hindu from Vancouver, where he is presently the director of junior programme.
“It is a great honour to be appointed by Hockey India and accepted by SAI. Hockey means a lot to me; it gives joy and pain, hard work and success and sharing this enthusiasm in a country which is full of hockey legends will be great,” the 51-year old Ahrens, who holds a coaching certificate from the Trainer Akademie Cologne, said.
Succeeding Hawgood
Interestingly, Ahrens was coach of the Scottish men’s national team for eight years from 2000-2008, where he succeeded Hawgood, a fact that he admits played an important role in his accepting the Indian assignment. “The fact Neil Hawgood coached the team was a major consideration. The work he and his coaching team has done is remarkably good. Having had the same situation before at Scotland, I know the template for successful work is there,” Ahrens said.
Though his official contract is yet to be drawn, Ahrens is expected to stay on till the 2018 World Cup, same as men’s coach Paul van Ass. But he has already set targets for the team.
“From my observation, penalty corners will be the key ahead of the World League Round semifinals and mental toughness.” Having seen the Indian team from close quarters at the Commonwealth Games and its recent preparations, Ahrens believes the team’s understanding of the game has improved vastly.
“In my opinion, the game perception has changed. It is not a change of system, it is about how the game is controlled — the ability to win balls high up the pitch and the ability to put the opposition under pressure when and where it matters, despite the young age of the team,” Ahrens said.
The Hindu
NZ Maori Men make it two in a row
The NZ Maori Men are set for a top of the table clash after making it two in a row against the NZ Indian Men yesterday winning 2-0.
With steady rain falling throughout, both teams battled to take control early in the piece. Despite chances early for both teams, it wasn’t until the 24th minute when the NZ Maori broke the deadlock through a clinical drag flick from Alex Hanham.
The score remained 1-0 at halftime despite some late pressure from the NZ Indians.
The second half mirrored the first – a tough defensive battle with only a handful of chances for either team. Once again, it was the NZ Maori who scored first in the second half, a slick reverse stick shot from Jury Herewini.
The NZ Indians kept pushing, with Harley Kopa in the NZ Maori goal having to pull out a couple of excellent saves.
Harley Kopa, NZ Maori captain, was understandably very pleased with his group.
In earlier results, in the women's competition the National Senior Tournament XI made it two in a row with a convincing 3-0 win over the NZ Indians, and the NZ Maori Wahine got their campaign underway with a gutsy 1-0 victory over Hawke's Bay, their goal (and worthy celebration!) came from Parekura Rangitauira.
In the Men's competition, the National Senior Tournament XI beat Hawke's Bay 3-1 in a shootout after scores were tied 2-2 at the end of regular time, thanks to two late goals from Jimmy Linehan.
DAILY RESULTS – 8TH APRIL
WOMEN
NST XI 3 (Imogen Neil 2, Hannah Mowat) vs NZ Indians 0
NZ Maori 1 (Parekura Rangitauira) vs Hawkes Bay 0
Hockey New Zealand Media release
208 Kiwis competing in Masters Trans-Tasman
Tara Pickering in action during the 2015 National Masters Tournament. www.photosport.co.nz
As the winter season gets underway around the country, 13 New Zealand Masters teams will be putting in a few extra trainings in the next month as they prepare for the biennial Trans-Tasman Tournament taking place in Melbourne from the 5-9 May.
The tournament which caters for men’s and women’s teams from 35+ to 65+, has been popular between the two countries since its inception in 2000 and former Black Stick Tara Pickering (nee Drysdale) is looking forward to competing in it for the first time.
“I’m not entirely sure of what to expect – but I know it will be good fun off the field and competitive when we are on it.”
Pickering was selected in the Women’s 35+ team along with three other Manawatu teammates and 12 others from around the country following last month’s 2015 National Masters Tournament held in Hawke’s Bay.
Coached by Doug Sommerville, Pickering’s team will come together for a two-day camp in Auckland on the 18-19 April.
“It’s a nice age, people at this age seem to learn fast and click together well. If we are asked to play a certain structure, we learn and execute it quickly. It’s certainly quite rewarding, the camp will be really good,” said Pickering.
She said she has also enjoyed the regular Sunday night training sessions that have been organised for all Manawatu players going to the tournament and it has helped everyone get out on the turf and get to know each other.
Hockey fans boast their game is a sport that can be played at any age and Pickering couldn’t agree more.
“The real drive for me is that I just really enjoy playing and it’s the tournaments that I find appealing. I remember playing in tournaments as a kid and they were great fun - we used to joke that we would be playing Masters together one day – and now it’s here and happening!
“And it’s almost better than what it was back then. We can drive ourselves to our own tournaments, we can have a beer and chat between games, we are our own bosses!
“Many of us have kids and busy lives, so we are there for a time away from our normal routine plus we are paying for it ourselves – so we want to make sure we are having a good time as well as playing serious hockey.”
Pickering added that she really appreciated the support from her loyal sponsors as well as family and friends who have supported her fundraising efforts.
Having played 121 games for the Black Sticks (2001-2007), Pickering says it was only when she stopped playing international hockey that she realised how much knowledge she had gained.
“I try and share as much as I can with other teammates. You take it for granted when you are in that high performance environment just how much you are learning, I’m very grateful for that,” said Pickering.
The New Zealand teams all arrive in Melbourne on 2 May, with the tournament running from 5-9 May. All teams play three games each, competing to win their own age division as well accumulating points for the overall Trans-Tasman Trophy which is currently held by Australia.
Click here to view the NZ Masters 2015 Trans-Tasman Tournament Team lists
Hockey New Zealand Media release
Sizzling steak, tantalising Tango, it has to be Buenos Aires
In the first of our guides to the Hockey World League Semi-Finals host cities, we visit the ‘Good Air’ of Argentina
(Photo: FIH)
The second largest city in South America, Buenos Aires is bold, expansive and vibrant. And for the 10 teams competing in the men’s Hockey World League Semi-Finals, it is the backdrop to one of the most important events in this year’s hockey calendar.
Competing in Buenos Aires will be the host nation Argentina (ranked 6), and other top-12 ranked teams Germany (3), the Netherlands (2), New Zealand (7) Korea (8) and Spain (11). These sides, perennial faces at major tournaments, will be joined by lower-ranked nations who have qualified via Hockey World League Round One and Two. These teams include Japan (16), Canada (15), Egypt (20) and the lowest ranked team appearing in Buenos Aires, Austria (22).
So what awaits the teams and spectators when they visit Argentina’s capital city in June? While hockey will be the priority, there is down-time and rest days and Buenos Aires provides plenty of opportunities to experience a new and exciting culture.
Portenos, the city’s residents, boast of their city’s food culture and Argentina’s main culinary delight – delicious beef – is renowned the world over. While you will be able to enjoy food originating from across the continent – Peru, Brazil, Mexico, America – it is the parrillas, or steak joints, that should be your first port of call, serving up a myriad of choices, such as bife de chorizo, vacuo or ono de bife (sirloin, flank and rib eye steak respectively).
Once you have sampled the culinary delights, there are countless other things to do in the city. It is a shopaholic’s dream destination as leather shops, clothing and shoe stores abound. There are upscale boutiques, up and coming designers and artisan craft shops, satisfying every budget and taste. Palermo Viejo is at the heart of the city’s fashion scene, while San Telmo is the place for design and vintage shops.
For culture, the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes contains some of Argentina’s most important works of art, while the presidential palace Casa Rosada, or Pink House, on the Plaza de Mayo was the setting for Madonna singing “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” in the film Evita.
No visit to Buenos Aires is complete without the Tango. Argentina’s signature dance seems to pervade the whole city atmosphere once the sun goes down. Whether the notes waft out of the door to a bar or are playing over the radio in an apartment, Buenos Aires is the Tango capital. Locals and tourists alike will gather on the city’s plazas to dance the night away, and if doing a Tango is on your must-do list, then seeing a show or booking a lesson in Buenos Aires is the authentic way to do it.
Hockey players and fans alike who are visiting Argentina for the first time will be bowled over by a country that loves life to the full. Whether it is a tango in the plaza or Los Leones leading their opponents a merry dance on the pitch, Buenos Aires is an exciting destination.
FIH site
Chhattisgarh to host final round of Men's Hockey World League
RAIPUR: The final round of the Men's Hockey World League will be held here from November 28 to December 6, 2015.
All the 24 matches will be played at Raipur's AstroTurf ground in Science College campus, a state government official said.
Eight national teams will be playing in the final round.
The decision in this regard was taken during a meeting of state government officials and Hockey India Federation. The meeting was chaired by Chief Minister Raman Singh.
"Hockey is quite popular in Chhattisgarh and it has given many national-international hockey players. To keep up this tradition of glory, as many national-international tournaments as possible should be organised," the CM was quoted as saying in an official release.
He directed the public works department and sports department in particular to chalk out action plan and to make necessary arrangements for the event.
At the meeting, President, Hockey India Federation Narendra Batra gave a presentation on activities and achievements of the federation.
The Times of India
JHP Teams Contend Against Belgium Junior National Teams
As the USA U-17 and U-19 Junior High Performance Teams travel abroad for their 2015 Belgium Tour, athletes will be blogging about games, local sites and their time with Team USA.
Just another day in Belgium...well, sort of. The day started off with a simple breakfast at our hotel, Hotel Ter Elst. Afterward, we were on the bus and off to the field for our morning practice. Intense and high-tempo training was a perfect way for the team to prepare and get excited about the upcoming game. After the practice session (and a much appreciated cool down) the team went over some film of the U.S. Women's National Team from the World Cup, to learn from their strong pressing and outletting. Lunch was served before we headed back to the hotel to rest and prepare before heading back to the field. When getting dressed for the game in the locker room, excitement and eagerness was prominent throughout the team. When warm up came around, we were ready to go!
At the Beerschot Hockey Club in Antwerp, Belgium, the U.S. U-19 Junior National Team played a fast-paced, physical and dramatic game against the U-18 Belgium Junior National Team. The game ended in a 3-3 tie, with Austyn Cuneo, Caroline Andretta and Erin Sherrer scoring for Team USA. Although Belgium was exceptionally skilled and played a challenging game, we had numerous connections that led to several scoring opportunities and three impressive goals. Some adjustments made at halftime aided how great our team played during the second half, but throughout the entire seventy minutes, we did not let up.
It is always an honor to represent our country and wear USA across our chests, and today we wore it proudly!! Tomorrow we play the same U-18 Belgium Junior National Team for a second time, and I cannot wait to face them again!
GO USA!!
- Erin Matson
U-19 Junior National Team Athlete
USFHA media release
Scotland on top against Wales in U18 Tri-Nations
Photo Credit: Duncan Gray
Scotland's U18 youth international squads were back in action yesterday as the U18 Tri-Nations tournament at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre got underway.
Scotland U18 Boys suffered mixed fortunes in two matches against Wales; two goals from Guy Rowson, plus strikes from Chris McFadden and Luke Cranney gave the home side a convincing 4-0 win in the first encounter, before the Scots went down 3-2 to the Welsh in the second match, Patrick Christie scoring a double for the national side.
Scotland U18 Boys line-up against Wales. Photo Credit: Duncan Gray
Scotland U18 Girls edged past Wales in the first match of their schedule, Claire Hilton scoring from a penalty corner in a 1-0 win.
Scotland U18 girls line-up before their match against Wales. Photo Credit: Duncan Gray
The second match was a scoring spree for the Scots, running out 11-0 winners. There was a hat-trick for Dundee Wanderers' Charlotte Watson, doubles from Katherine Holdgate and Amy Costello, and goals from Bella Fisken, Chloe Hardie, Laura Swanson and Morven Duff.
Charlotte Watson, below right, scored a hat-trick against Wales. Photo Credit: Duncan Gray
Scotland U18 Boys play Wales again later today (12 noon)
Scottish Hockey Union media release
Scotland U18 boys wrap up series win over Wales
Photo Credit: Emma Jane
Scotland U18 Boys finished their three match series against Wales with a convincing 7-1 win at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre today.
The Scots take the series 2-1 after yesterday's 4-0 victory.
Luke Cranney gave Scotland the lead with a sweet strikein the 10th minute after the initial penalty corner attempt was saved by Wales' goalkeeper Hamish Addey.
Steve McCurry's side doubled their advantage in the 23rd minute, courtesy of a fiercely struck penalty corner from Andrew Webb.
With half-time approaching, Ioan Wall brought Wales back into the contest with a well-taken shot high into the net in the 30th minute.
The second half was dominated by the home side, scoring five goals without reply.
Webb again demonstrated his prowess at the penalty corner set-play, firing the ball low past Addey six minutes after the re-start.
Four minutes later, it was Chris McFadden who took control at the penalty corner set-piece to drive the ball into the net for a fourth Scottish goal.
Any hopes of a Welsh comeback were extinguished in the 48th minute after Rob Harwood stepped up to score a penalty flick after being illegally grounded by Addey inside the scoring circle.
An excellent team goal in the 52nd minute saw Scotland go 6-1 up after Callum McKenzie finished in off the right hand post.
James Nairn concluded the scoring in the 59th minute, driving the ball low and hard into the left hand corner of the goal to make the final score 7-1 to the hosts.
Scottish Hockey Union media release
Scots youngsters shine in HDM tournament
Scotland U16 girls after their tournament success. Photo Credit: David Cawthorn
Scotland's U16 youth international teams returned from the Netherlands on Monday after a successful weekend at the JIHPT Youth Tournament hosted by HDM.
Scotland U16 Girls won the gold medal after a 2-1 win over Cartouche in the final. Hanna McKie, who was the tournament's top scorer, turned out to the difference between the two sides, netting two goals.
The young Scots had negotiated their way through the group stage with a 3-2 win over Cartouche MB, including a Katie McCallum double and one from McKie; a 5-0 success over HB Abcoude that featured an Emily Dark hat-trick and another double from McKie; and a thumping 6-0 victory against Diocesan School for Girls, including two from McKie and goals for Lexi Sabatelli, Ella Watt, Maddie Cleat and McCallum.
In the semi-final, goals from Sabetelli, Watt and Kayleigh Justice led to a 3-1 win over Gronnigen.
As well as winning the gold medal, the team were also awarded the tournament Fair Play Award.
Scotland U16 Boys narrowly missed out on making it a gold medal double the national sides after losing 1-0 on penalties to Dynamo Elektrostal.
The Scots had come back from 3-0 down at half-time to level the scores at 3-3.
Cameron Golden finished tournament top scorer and was also awarded Player of the Tournament.
The boys topped their group after wins over Kearney (8-0), HDM (3-2), and a 2-2 draw with Manheimmer. A 7-0 win over HC Derby eased their passage to the final.
Please visit the JIHPT Youth Tournament website for more information.
Scottish Hockey Union media release
Nishan-e-Haider Hockey Tournament
LAHORE - Pakistan Steel Mills, Flying Horse Club and Port Qasim Wednesday won their matches in the league stage of the 10th Nishan-e-Haider Floodlight Hockey Tournament at the Dring Stadium.
According to Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) spokesman, Flying Horse Club outclassed Manga Mandi 7-2 in the first match, Steel Mills beat Multan 5-3 in the second while Port Qasim thrashed Khushab 4-1 in the last match.
Flying Horse, a local club, which had the services of national team captain M Imran, thrashed Manga Mandi Club 7-2. Though the visitors took lead in the second minute scoring a field goal through Imran and brought hosts under pressure yet they failed to maintain their momentum afterward. Four beautiful field goals by local boy Farman, in the 14th, 22nd, 36th and 47th minutes respectively completely dominated the proceedings of the match. In between, Noman also scored a goal in the 30th minute. Then Imran scored two goals on penalty corners in the 48th and 56th minutes respectively. Usman from Manga Mandi scored the second goal for his team in the 43rd minute.
Two goals each by Zubair and Attique helped Pakistan Steel Mills beat Multan 5-3 in the second match of the day. Both the teams played aggressive game and ferociously attacked each others’ halves. However, both failed to score in the first two quarters. Zubair took lead for Pakistan Steel in the 34th minute with a field goal which was doubled by Yasin Anwar in the 38th minute. Attique two goals in the 48th and 58th minutes respectively consolidated his team’s lead.
Zubair struck another field goal in the 53rd minute. Shoaib played brilliantly for Multan scoring two goals on a penalty corner in the 42nd minute and a field goal in the 59th minute. Adil netted a field goal in the 60th minute of the match.
Port Qasim faced tough resistance from Khushab boys, who, after scoring a goal on penalty stroke in the sixth minute of the third match, successfully maintained their lead in the first two quarts and for a considerable time in the third quart. Their goalkeeper took three straight hits on his chest and pads to save certain goals. However, Khushab boys couldn’t sustain the pressure of a big match in the last two quarts and Port Qasim dominated the match afterward. Hanif converted a penalty corner in the 41st minute to level the score. Yasir’s 49th minute field goal helped his team to take lead which was doubled by Zahid in the 52nd minute on a penalty corner.
Taufeeq’s field goal in the 56th minute consolidated his teams’ position.
Today (Thursday)’s fixtures: PIA White vs KP Police, Asia Ghee Mills vs Khushab, Wapda vs Manga Mandi.
The Nation
Change to Investec Women's Relegation play-offs
There is a change to the North team in the England Hockey Investec Women’s Hockey League Relegation Play-offs.
Kendal have been deducted five points by the England Hockey League Committee for fielding an ineligible player in matches during the 2014-15 season. This is based on information that only recently came to light. They were deducted the points earned in games that the player concerned played, in line with Regulation 13.2.2. . Kendal appealed against the ruling to the England Hockey Appeal Panel but this was dismissed
This points deduction means that they move from eighth to ninth place and now replace Liverpool Sefton in the Relegation Play-offs. Horsham (9th in Conference East) will now travel to Kendal this Saturday, 11th April. Kendal will travel to Bristol Firebrands (Conference West) on the 19th April. In the one game in the competition to date Bristol Firebrands beat Horsham 2-1.
England Hockey Board Media release
Police target Simba scalp in hockey season opener
By BRIAN YONGA
Willis Simiyu of Kenya Police drives the ball past Samuel Mucheke of Greensharks during a past match. Police’s mission of reclaiming the league title this term gets underway this weekend with a tough contest against Nairobi Simba. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU
After losing their hockey league title to Butali Sugar Warriors last season, Kenya Police’s mission of reclaiming the gong this term gets underway this weekend with a tough contest against Nairobi Simba.
The match will most likely give a clear perspective of which team will challenge Butali Sugar in the new campaign which has seen the return of the home and away format.
Police won Uganda Hockey Association (UHA) 2015 Easter Cup open in Kampala last weekend after beating fellow Kenyan side United States International University of Africa (USIU –A) in the final.
Police beat local rivals Greensharks 1-0 in the semi-final and had also thrashed Wazalendo 3-0 in the group stages enroute to the final. The women’s title was won by USIU Spartans who saw off four Ugandan clubs to finish top of the table.
The law enforcers will be hoping to carry the good form when they take on the 2012 champions this weekend.
Police thrashed Nairobi Simba 4-2 in an epic semi-final last season and a repeat performance will under-line their tile ambitions.
STILL STRONG
Despite losing Kenyan internationals Brian Musasia and Francis Esikuri to Butali Sugar and Chase Bank respectively, Police’s team manager Tom Ondeng’ is optimistic the team will cope with the available players.
“We are still a force to reckon with despite the gap left by the players, we proved this by winning the Ugandan tournament.
“We want to carry the momentum going into this weekend and for the rest of the season,” Ondeng told Nation Sport.
The law enforcers have since recruited youngsters Robert Masibo and Elly Odindo from Bay Club and impressed in Uganda during the Easter event.
“We need to be consistent if we want to be crowned champions. The boys have been working hard in training and are hungry for success this season,” he added.
Police will also play in the African Club Championship which is set for later this year in Egypt alongside Butali Sugar.
Daily Nation
Hockey star Saba Anjum receives Padma Shri
NEW DELHI: Former Indian women's hockey team captain Saba Anjum received the country's fourth highest civilian honour -- the Padma Shri -- from President Pranab Mukherjee during a glittering ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Wednesday.
Saba was also conferred with the Arjuna Award in 2013. The Chhattisgarh player was a prominent forward and represented India during the 2002 Asian Games, 2004 Asia Cup, 2002 and 2006 Commonwealth Games, and the 2001 Junior World Cup.
She was part of the bronze medal winning team at the 2006 Doha Asian Games. Saba was elevated to the skipper's spot in 2011 and during her 15-year-long international career, she scored 92 goals in 200 matches.
"It is a great honour for me as well as Indian women's hockey. We are very grateful to the government of India for recognising the efforts of women's hockey in this country. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Hockey India (HI) for giving me the support which always boosted my confidence," Saba said.
The Times of India