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News for 22 November 2015

All the news for Sunday 22 November 2015


India look to upstage Australia in second Test


India will come out all guns blazing in the second match against Australia. (TOI Photo)

RAIPUR: Having let world hockey champions Australia escape with a draw in the first of the three-match Test series, India will try not to repeat the mistakes and come out all guns blazing in the second match at the newly inaugurated Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Stadium on Sunday.

India led 2-1 via V.R. Raghunath's two successful penalty corner conversions but the hosts' shaky defence conceded a penalty corner in the 58th minute that was converted by Chris Ciriello for a 2-all result in Rajnandgaon.

Coming to the second match, India chief coach Roelant Oltmans said they have addressed the shortcomings.

"It was a good game, but the last minute encroachment by the opponents into our area only exposed the areas we still need to take control of," Oltmans said in a release.

"We have addressed the concern areas and our hopeful of a better show tomorrow."

This will be the first ever international match hosted in Raipur, and a lot of crowd support is expected as was seen in the last match at Rajnandgaon.

"The crowd support has been tremendous, and with such terrific support, we are charged to give in our best and not disappoint our fans," Oltmans, who is also the Indian hockey's high performance director, said.

The Times of India



India and Pakistan will do battle for Junior Asia Cup trophy

by S. Ramaguru

KUANTAN: Neighbours India and Pakistan will battle it out for the title in the eighth edition of the Junior Asia Cup.

Pakistan came back from 2-0 down to snatch a 2-2 draw against South Korea in the semi-finals to force a penalty shootout which they won 8-7 at the Wisma Belia Hockey Stadium.

Kim Sung-yeob had put South Korea 2-0 ahead with goals in the 18th and 41st minutes before Ahmad Shakeel Butt forced the game into a penalty shootout with his own brace in the 46th and 70th minutes.

In the mandatory shootout, the teams were again level at 4-4, with one player from each side failing to convert their flicks.

Then, in the sudden-death shootout, Ahmad Shakeel turned hero when he converted his while Yoo Han-young became the villain when he missed his attempt.

India had no such problems booking their place in the final, outclassing Japan 6-1.

Mandeep Singh (12th minute), Manpreet Junior (13th), Harmanpreet Singh (23rd, 48th), Vikramjit Singh (27th) and Varun Kumar (64th) scored for India while Shota Yamada (44th) got Japan’s consolation goal.

Sunday’s final will the third meeting between India and Pakistan in the Junior Asia Cup.

In 1996, Pakistan beat India, who then avenged that loss in 2004.

India are looking to win their third Junior Asia Cup to equal Pakistan’s feat.

Pakistan won in 1987, 1992 and 1996 while India were champions in 2004 and 2008.

The other two editions were won by South Korea (2000) and Malaysia (2012).

The Star of Malaysia



Malaysia to face Bangladesh for fifth-placing decider

by S. Ramaguru



KUANTAN: It took Malaysia 41 minutes to break a resilient China.

But once they had breached the Chinese defence, there was no stopping coach A. Arulselvaraj’s men as they pulverised China 5-1 to set up a fifth-placing clash against Bangladesh in the Junior Asia Cup.

It wasn’t a good performance by Malaysia, who are still reeling from the failure of making the Junior World Cup, especially in the first half.

But once forward Shahril Saabah broke the deadlock in the 41st minute, the floodgates opened.

Shahril went on to notch a hat-trick with two more goals in the 52nd and 64th minutes, taking his tally in the tournament to eight goals.

Although China briefly threatened a fightback when E Wenlong scored in the 53rd minute, goals by Nik Aiman Nik Rozemi (56th) and Syed Shafiq Cholan (67th) were enough to help Malaysia seal victory.

Coach Arulselvaraj said he wanted his players to make sure they finish at least fifth in the tournament.

“I wanted the players to prove themselves and not give up. They are a talented bunch ... we should make sure they have a future in hockey,” he said.

“We may be out of the Junior World Cup, but I’d like the authorities to think about how to keep these players.

“The only way the players can get people to notice them is to win. That’s why we need to put the (penalty shootout quarter-final) defeat to South Korea behind us and work for a win here. I wanted them to win by a big margin.

“I’m glad they delivered. We have one more match to go.”

Their next opponents, Bangladesh needed a penalty shootout to beat Oman 3-2 after both teams were tied 2-2 in regulation time.

Bangladesh went ahead through Roman Sarkar in the 31st minute before Salmeen Al Nofali equalised in the 64th minute.

Shafi Al Shaftari put Oman ahead three minutes later but Milon Hossain drew Bangladesh level in the 70th minute. 

The Star of Malaysia



India thrash Japan 6-1 to enter Junior Asia Cup Hockey final


(Hockey India Photo)

Indian team continued their dream run in the Junior Men's Asia Cup hockey tournament as they crushed Japan 6-1 to reach the final of the tournament. In the second semi-final Pakistan beat Korea 8-7 in the shoot-out to set up summit clash with India on Sunday.

On the back of 9-0 bashing of Oman in quarterfinals, India continued in the same vein when Mandeep Singh opened the floodgates with a wonderful field goal in the 12th minute. Manpreet junior wasted no time and slotted brilliantly in 13th minute to stretch India's lead.

Drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh, who has been in rollicking form in the tournament, converted the penalty corner to make it 3-0 for India. In the 27th minute, Vikramjit Singh also joined the party and got his name on the scoreboard to take the score 4-0.

Shota Yamada scored the lone goal for Japan through penalty corner in the second-half before Harmanpreet and Varun Kumar struck to ensure India keep their unbeaten run intact in the tournament.

"The boys played really well making it a great day for us in the tournament. We are one step away from winning the tournament and it is the time when we all need to keep our calm. The team is well drilled and hungry for more. We will take the next match as any other normal game and focus on putting up a good tight show," said coach Harendra Singh.

The Times of India



India thump Japan to enter final

Indian men walloped Japan 6-1 to enter the finals of the 8th Junior Men's Asia Cup hockey tournament at Kuantan (Malaysia) on Saturday. The semi-final victory was also India's second in the tournament against Japan, having beaten them at the group league stage.

For India Mandeep Singh, Manpreet Singh Jr, Vikramjit Singh and Varun Kumar scored one goal apiece while Harmanpreet Singh struck twice, whose individual goals tally in the tournament has gone upto 11. For Japan, Yamada Shota reduced the margin. India will meet the winner between Pakistan and South Korea, who are pitted against each other in the second semi-final scheduled to be played on Sunday.

India started the first half with their usual flair and attacking display as Mandeep opened the account in the 12th minute. Manpreet Jr increased the tally within a minute to make it 2-0. India did not need to look back after this and continued with their goal fest as Harmanpreet scored his 10th goal of the tournament from a penalty corner giving India a comfortable 3-0 lead. Vikramjit's field goal in the 27th minute consolidated India's lead to 4-0 as the winners went into the break.

Japan started the second half with an attacking intent and was rewarded with a penalty corner which was converted by Yamada Shota giving Japan a much needed breather. However India struck back fiercely in the 48th minute through a penalty corner conversion by Harmanpreet. The margin was increased when Varun converted a penalty corner to make it 6-1 to seal a place in the final.

"The boys played really well making it a great day for us in the tournament. We are one step away from winning the tournament and it is the time when we all need to keep our calm. The team is well drilled and hungry for more. We will take the next match as any other normal game and focus on putting up a good tight show," said coach Harendra Singh.

DNA



India to encounter Pak in the final

s2h Team

Kuantan, Malaysia: Traditional rivals India and Pakistan posted contrasting victories today in the semi-finals of Kuantan Junior Asia cup for dream Sunday final

While India comfortably went through the motion of setting the Japan challenge aside with a 6-1 win, Pakistan struggled to draw the Koreans 2-2 and then emerged successful in the shoot out to enter the final.

Pakistan's goalkeeper, Muhammad Khalid, later declared 'Man of the Match',came out with his best to get his nation the much needed hockey relief in the second semi-final match of their 8th Men's Junior Asia Cup 2015 at the Wisma Belia Hockey Stadium in Kuantan today.

India started the first half with their usual flair and attacking play and within the first 12 minutes India opened their account through a field goal from Mandeep Singh.

Manpreet (Jr.) added another goal in the next minute to take India 2-0 up.

India didn’t look back after this and continued with their goal fest as Harmanpreet scored his 10th goal of the tournament from a penalty corner giving India a comfortable 3-0 lead. Vikramjit Singh’s field goal in the 27th minute consolidated India’s lead in the game. The first half ended with the score at 4-0 in India’s favour.

Japan started the second half with an attacking intent and was rewarded with a penalty corner which was converted by Yamada Shota giving Japan a much needed breather. However India struck back fiercely in the 48th minute through a penalty corner conversion by Harmanpreet Singh taking his tally to 11 goals in the tournament. The margin of the win was extended even further with Varun Kumar scoring from a penalty corner to make it 6-1 in India’s favour and booking a berth for India in the finals.

“The boys played really well making it a great day for us in the tournament. We are one step away from winning the tournament and it is the time when we all need to keep our calm. The team is well drilled and hungry for more. We will take the next match as any other normal game and focus on putting up a good tight show” said Harendra Singh, Coach, Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team

Stick2Hockey.com



Pakistan rout S. Korea to set up final with India

KARACHI: Three-time former champions Pakistan overcome fighting South Korea 8-7 in penalty strokes shootout after being locked two-all in regulation time to set up a title clash with India who defeated Japan by tennis score of 6-1 in the two semi-finals of the eighth junior Asia Cup hockey tournament in the Malaysian city of Kuantan on Saturday.

A brace by Shakeel Ammad Butt in the 46th and 70th minute off penalty corners helped Pakistan drew level after Koreans found the net twice in the 18th and 41st minutes with both the goals coming in through Sungyeob Kim, also off penalty corners.

Again, the two teams were tied four-all in the first penalty shootout session but in the next, Pakistan scored four as against three by the opponents.

It is pertinent to mention that Pakistan defeated the Koreans 3-0 in the pool match.

Earlier in the first semi-final, India led 4-0 at half time.

It is pertinent to mention that Japan had restricted India to 2-1 victory in the pool match.

Earlier in the two classification matches, Bangladesh defeated Oman 3-2 on penalty shootout after being tied two-all in the regulation time.

First a last minute equaliser by Milon Hossain and then the decisive penalty stroke conversion by Fazla Rabbi saved Bangladesh from disgrace.

Oman surged 2-1 when Saleem Al Nofali (64th) and Shafi Al Shatari (67th) scored in a span of three minutes after Roman Sarkar had drew blood off a penalty corner in 31st minute.

Later, the Bangladesh scored on first, third and the fifth penalty strokes as against first and fifth by Oman to win the battle.

In another match, reigning champions Malaysia, who met the agony of not qualifying for the junior World Cup losing to South Korea in the quarters, thrashed China 5-1 with all the goals coming in the second half.

Shahril Saabah netted three goals, including two on penalty corners while Aiman Nik Rozemi and Syed Syafiq Cholan scored once for the winners.

China’s consolation goal was scored by E Wenlong off a penalty corner.

The event concludes on Sunday with final, play-off for 3rd-4th position and classification matches for the 5th-6th and 7th-8th matches on card.

Dawn



Pakistan overcome semifinal hurdle to face India in final

LAHORE: Skipper Ammad Shakeel Butt sparkled for Pakistan as they edged out South Korea in an 8-7 penalty shootout after both sides played out a 2-2 draw in the semifinal of the 8th Men’s Junior Asia Cup at the Wisma Belia Hockey Stadium in Kuantan, Malaysia on Saturday. Korea opened the scoring with the first goal in the 18th minute through SungYeob Kim. The Korean went on to score the second goal of the game in the 41st minute before Pakistan reduced the lead as Shakeel struck the back of the net in the 46th minute. The 19-year-old gave his team a fighting chance after hitting the equaliser in the 70 minute to take the game to the shootouts. Muhammad Bilal Qadir missed the first penalty, but was followed by four successive goals from Shan Irshad, Muhammad Dilber, Muhammad Atiq and Shakeel. Korea’s fifth shot was saved by Muhammad Khalid as the greenshirts went on to win 8-7.

“The players have made a tremendous effort to reach the final of the tournament in the presence of strong teams,” head coach Tahir Zaman was quoted as saying. “Without having much practice on the international front, they managed to reach this stage because of their hard work and dedication. They will face India in the final now. We finished as runners-up in the last edition and will do our best this time to go past the last hurdle. India are not going to be an easy side to beat,” he added. Winning captain Shakeel said: “We were under pressure after Korea scored the first goal of the match, but we managed to hold on to our nerves and fight back. I am glad I was able to score,” he concluded.

The Daily Times



Pakistan to face India for Junior Asia Cup trophy

KUANTAN - Arch-rivals Pakistan and India will battle it out for the title in the eighth edition of the Junior Asia Cup.

Pakistan came back from 2-0 down to snatch a 2-2 draw against South Korea in the semi-finals to force a penalty shootout which they won 8-7 at the Wisma Belia Hockey Stadium.

Kim Sung-yeob had put South Korea 2-0 ahead with goals in the 18th and 41st minutes before Ahmad Shakeel Butt forced the game into a penalty shootout with his own brace in the 46th and 70th minutes.
In the mandatory shootout, the teams were again level at 4-4, with one player from each side failing to convert their flicks.

Then, in the sudden-death shootout, Ahmad Shakeel turned hero when he converted his while Yoo Han-young became the villain when he missed his attempt.

India had no such problems booking their place in the final, outclassing Japan 6-1.

Mandeep Singh (12th minute), Manpreet Junior (13th), Harmanpreet Singh (23rd, 48th), Vikramjit Singh (27th) and Varun Kumar (64th) scored for India while Shota Yamada (44th) got Japan’s consolation goal.

Sunday’s final will the third meeting between India and Pakistan in the Junior Asia Cup.

In 1996, Pakistan beat India, who then avenged that loss in 2004.

India are looking to win their third Junior Asia Cup to equal Pakistan’s feat.
Pakistan won in 1987, 1992 and 1996 while India were champions in 2004 and 2008.

The other two editions were won by South Korea (2000) and Malaysia (2012).

The Nation



Can Harendra win second Junior Asia Cup for India?

Under Harendra Singh’s coaching India won its maiden Asia Cup in five attempts at Karachi and it is to his credit he is still stuck with juniors and is on the eve of winning his second -- and India's third -- Junior Asia Cup.

Of course his Karachi days and Kuantan waiting to happen, Ajay Kumar Bansal has got India a junior crown at Hyderabad.

But today is different, and it is what it makes sports a great show on the earth.

In many words Harendra Singh has a revenge at hand. The venue was same Kuantan. Year 2013. Coaching team had both Dhanraj Pillay and Harendra Singh. One a famous player the other adulated coach. Both came to Kuantan after winning a low-key Azlan Shah Cup at nearby Ipoh in Malaysia.

But in the Sr. Men’s Asia Cup league match India could not put it across Pakistan, which had just recalled almost worn out Sohail Abbas. He struck only goal of the event against India. The loss ultimately led the defending champions India to the third place.

Now on the same venue, Harendra is there with the junior teams. The task now on hand is the final against traditional rival.

On this day Harendra Singh can look forward to his Karachi days when for the first time India won its first Junior Asia Cup.

India , with physio Dr. Saju Joseph and manager Hanumantha Rao, had difficulty in the semis against its nemesis Korea but Adrian D’Souza helped India to overcome the ordeal.

The final was supposed to be a cracker but it turned out be one-sided. India overran Pakistan for a 5-2 win, and it was India’s first Junior Cup win. And it came on the Pak soils is a bonus for Harendra’s effort.

Now we can wait to see whether Harendra repeats Karachi at Kuantan or will allow old Kuantan memories to haunt him.

Stick2Hockey.com



India – Pakistan at Junior Asia Cup

Unlike Senior Asia Cup, the junior version has proved to be a four-corner contest with Korea and Malaysia throwing fitting challenge to the hegemony of India and Pakistan. Malaysia hardly a factor insofar as the senior Asia Cup’s crown.

Against this context, today’s encounter between the neighbours India and Pakistan seems continuation of history, though rise of Pakistan at the cost of Korea may in the long run prove to be a watershed, as the former giant, now out of successive world cup and Olympics, is rebuilding.

First Junior Asia Cup was played in the last week of 1988 and first week of next year at Karachi. India, having lost to Korea and Pakistan in the last round robin match finished third.

Pakistan defeated India 3-0, which was in effect a final. But India and Pak did not meet. At Singapore in 1996, India and Pak drew 2-2 in the final at Delta Sports Complex turf, but Pak emerged winners on penalties (7-6).

In 2000, both did not meet, India-Sk contest going the latter’s way.

Junior Asia Cup now moved to its birthplace Karachi.

Having won first three editions, Pakistan was looking for its fourth win in five appearances, but Harendra’s team had other ideas.

Led by Sandeep Michael, India comprehensively beat Pak to lift its first Junior Asia Cup.

Under Ajay Kumar Bansal, India retained the cup four years later in Hyderabad, but the final was against Korea.

Here in Hyderabad, India overcame Pakistan in a tough semifinal.

Pakistan raided early, but the efforts were not made use of by the sluggish forwardline, Indian defence also stood up, especially whenever the dangerous KSHIF Ali got a chance to drag flick, An early goal from Gurwinder Chandi and a brace from Diwakar Ram in the second half was suffice for India to romp home a comfortable 3-1 win. Kashif’s lone goal came in the second half.

Now, the Junior Asia Cup returned new home Malaysia, Malacca.

India lost the semis to Malaysia but before that India and Pak drew their pool match 2-2.

Dilber Mohd in the fifth minute put Pak ahead but Amit Rohidass evened it out shortly later. Irfan Md again gave Pak the lead only to see rival captain Akashdeep Singh coming with a peach of a goal in the 60th minute to see off the Pak challenge with a draw.

Stick2Hockey.com



Stats Speak: India-Pakistan in Junior Asia Cup Finals

By B.G.Joshi (India)

Highlights are:
*Pakistan entered in Final on 6th occasions, whereas India assured 5th Final.
*India and Pakistan will meet in Final on 3rd time, in Singapore (1996) Pakistan became triumphant in sudden death tie breaker, full time score was 2-2, tie breaker 5-4. In Karachi (2004) India won the title, beating Pakistan 5-2.
*India and Pakistan played 32 matches, India wins 12, Pakistan 10 and remaining 10 were drawn.
*In Junior Asia Cup, India meet Pakistan 5 times, India and Pakistan both have won twice, one match was drawn.
*India-Pakistan Junior teams last met on Oct 11, 2015 in Sultan of Johor Cup (Johor Bahru, Malaysia), India beats Pakistan 5-1 on that match.

Junior Asia Cup: At a glance

Year

Venue

Total Teams

Winner

Captain

1988

Karachi

7

Pakistan

Shahbaz Ahmed

1992

Kuala Lumpur

10

Pakistan

 Mohd.Khalid(CH)

1996

Singapore

10

Pakistan

Mohd. Khalid(LI)

2000

Kuala Lumpur

11

South Korea

Lee Jung Soon

2004

Karachi

10

India

Sandeep Micheal

2008

Hyderabad

8

India

Gurbaz Singh

2012

Malacca

8

Malaysia

Noor Faeez

2015

Kuantan

8

 

 

 Fieldhockey.com



Winning start for U23s

Hugh Pembroke and James Day seal 2-1 in in Canberra



Australia’s U23 men powered to an opening day win over their Kiwi counterparts in the first of five matches In Canberra this week.

Goals in the third and fourth quarters from Hugh Pembroke and James Day did the job for the Aussie men before Matt Symonds’ last minute consolation for New Zealand.

NSWIS Head Coach Brent Livermore, who is lead coach for the series, said, “It was a good performance from the boys, particularly given the short lead time that they have had to prepare together.

“We can take lots of positives from today’s game for the group as a whole to develop and work on throughout the week as we aim to continually improve.

“It’s always a tough match against New Zealand and clearly they have brought a strong squad. It was great to see a number of supporters of both teams out here today.”

Match two takes place in Canberra at 4pm on Sunday.

Match 1 of 5
Canberra, ACT

Australia U23  2 (0)
Hugh Pembroke 38 (PC)
James Day 56 (PC)

New Zealand U23  1 (0)
Matt Symonds 70 (FG)

Australian Men’s U23 Team
National Hockey Centre, Canberra
Name (State)
Oscar Allan (VIC)
Jacob Andrade (NT)
James Benetti (WA)
Simon Benetti (WA)
James Day (ACT)
Johan Durst (VIC)
Isaac Farmillo (NSW)
Max Harris (VIC)
Ryan Jones (TAS)
Cameron Joyce (SA)
Jason Lowe (NT)
Jayden Pearson (TAS)
Hugh Pembroke (QLD)
Aiden Rintala (QLD)
Marshall Roberts (WA)
Lachlan Sharp (NSW)
Stuart Shepherd (ACT)
Jai Walker Kidd (TAS)
MacKenzie Warne (QLD)
Cameron White (SA)

Australian Staff
Brent Livermore – Coach
Ben Bishop – Assistant Coach
Mick Evans – Assistant Coach
Ben Webb – Team Manager
Suzie Goodall - Physiotherapist

Remaining U23 New Zealand Series Fixtures
Sunday 22 November: Australia v New Zealand, 4pm AEDT
Tuesday 24 November: Australia v New Zealand, 3pm AEDT
Wednesday 25 November: Australia v New Zealand, 4pm AEDT
Friday 27 November: Australia v New Zealand, 10am AEDT

Hockey Australia media release



Narrow win keeps University of Birmingham top


Amelia Andrew in action for the Univ of Birmingham. Credit Andy Smith

A first half goal from Amelia Andrew was enough to give the University of Birmingham a 1-0 win away at Leicester and keep them on top of the Investec Women’s Hockey League Premier Division.

Andrew scored after six minutes against struggling Leicester to maintain the visitors’ unbeaten start to the season and keep daylight between themselves and the chasing pack.

That result means Surbiton remain two points behind the students despite their 3-1 victory at winless Buckingham.

Goals from Emily Atkinson, Sarah Page and Giselle Ansley had Surbiton three in front by the time Alyson Billington hit back with a consolation for Buckingham who remain bottom.

Clifton moved up to fourth after they registered a 3-2 win away at Bowdon Hightown thanks to two goals from Claire Thomas.

Els Mansell had levelled up for Clifton after Natalie Wray had scored to give Bowdon the lead early on, and Lisa Garbutt made it 2-2 before Thomas grabbed a late winner.

Investec Conference East

Mel Ball scored to maintain Slough’s eight-point lead at the top of the Investec Women’s Conference East with a 1-0 win away at Cambridge City.

Ball struck shortly after half time for the league leaders as Cambridge missed the chance to cut the gap at the top.

Hampstead and Westminster climbed into second after goals from Joyce Esser and Amy Askew gave them a 2-1 away at Harleston Magpies.

The home side had led at the break through Susan Wessels’ strike but a second half turnaround saw Hampstead and Westminster maintain the pressure at the top.

Elsewhere Ipswich are still without a win after they were beaten 3-1 at home by Chelmsford, whilst Sevenoaks won 1-0 at Wimbledon and St Albans beat Maidenhead 2-1.

Investec Conference North

Wakefield retained their six-point lead at the top of the Investec Conference North after a narrow 1-0 win over Ben Rhydding. Cat Horn scored the only goal of the game on 53 minutes.

University of Durham survived a late scare to take a 3-2 victory over Springfields. A double from Christabel McWhirter had helped Durham to a 3-0 lead but two late goals from Springfields made for a tense finish.

Liverpool Sefton were also 3-2 winners, taking only their second three points of their campaign. The scores were level until the 64th minute when Hannah Gavigan scored the winner.

Brooklands Poynton beat Whitely Bay and Tynemouth 2-0 and Beeston drew 1-1 with Belper.

Investec Conference West

Sarah Cavendish scored twice for Stourport to deal Sutton Coldfield just their second defeat of the season.

Jen Parkinson-Mills had put the league leaders ahead before Cavendish hit back to cut the gap between the two sides at the top to a point.

Swansea City in third also closed in on the leaders with a 3-1 win away at the University of Bristol with two goals from Katrin Budd and one from Sophie Clayton making the difference.

Isca were 5-2 winners against Oxford Hawks thanks to a four-goal haul from Megan Crowson, whilst Sally Gibson’s goal gave Trojans a 1-0 win away at Bristol Firebrands and Olton and West Warwicks were 1-0 winners against Gloucester City.

Investec Women’s Hockey League (Saturday, November 21 2015):

Investec Women's Premier Division: Buckingham 1, Surbiton 3; Bowdon Hightown 2, Clifton 3; Leicester 0, University of Birmingham 1.

Investec Women's Conference East: Cambridge City 0, Slough 1; Maidenhead 1, St Albans 2; Wimbledon 0, Sevenoaks 1; Harleston Magpies 1, Hampstead and Westminster 2; Ipswich 1, Chelmsford 3.

Investec Women's Conference North: Brooklands Poynton 2, Whitley Bay and Tynemouth 0; University of Durham 3, Springfields 2; Beeston 1, Belper 1; Liverpool Sefton 3, Loughborough Students 2; Ben Rhydding 0, Wakefield 1.

Investec Women's Conference West: Olton and West Warwicks 1, Gloucester City 0; Isca 5, Oxford Hawks 2; University of Bristol 1, Swansea City 3; Sutton Coldfield 1, Stourport 2; Bristol Firebrands 0, Trojans 1.

England Hockey Board Media release



Syracuse, North Carolina face off for field hockey national championship

Rich Rezler


The Tar Heels know ACC rival Syracuse well. North Carolina Athletics

ANN ARBOR, Michigan – After scoring two goals apiece in their team’s victories, Syracuse’s Alma Fenne and North Carolina’s Malin Evert were the stars of Friday’s semifinal round of the NCAA Field Hockey Championship.

On Saturday, a new name emerged in Ann Arbor: Bella. As in Winter Storm Bella, the outskirts of which provided southeast Michigan with its first snowfall of the year.

The University of Michigan began preparations for the expected three inches of snow immediately following North Carolina’s 2-0 win over Duke in the second semifinal. Crews rolled a tarp over the blue turf at Ocker Field and planned to blow heat beneath it all day Saturday to prevent the field from freezing.

The team’s Saturday practices and a scheduled college field hockey all-star game were moved inside to the nearby Oosterbaan Field House.

Forecasts call for Sunday’s 1 p.m. national title game to be played under sunny skies, but temperatures will be below freezing. During the semifinal round, played in temperatures in the high 40-degree range, Syracuse was the only team that had players forsake compression tights and long-sleeved shirts beneath their uniforms.

“I certainly would think they have more experience in the cold weather, but I think our kids are pretty tough,” North Carolina coach Karen Shelton said. “I think we're prepared ... we have leggings and little ear things, which I think we're going to need. It was fine out there (Friday) for the players on the field, but I think it's going to be a bit colder and the conditions are going to be a little bit different on Sunday.”

Regardless of weather conditions, the championship game will serve as the rubber match between the two teams that established themselves as the best in the country throughout the season.

Syracuse (20-1), the top seed in the tournament, was undefeated and the No. 1-ranked team in the NFHCA poll through the Atlantic Coast Conference tournament title game, when North Carolina (21-2) handed them a 2-1 loss and claimed their top ranking. In an earlier regular season game, Syracuse overcame an early 2-0 deficit to win 4-2.

For Syracuse coach Ange Bradley, just completing the Atlantic Coast Conference regular season qualified the Orange and Tar Heels for a shot at a national championship. All seven of the league's teams were ranked within the top 11 in the final NFHCA poll.

Prior to back-to-back titles by UConn and one by Princeton in 2012, the ACC had won 10 consecutive national titles. And the winner beat conference rivals in nine of those championship games. North Carolina is seeking its seventh national title and first since 2009. The Tar Heels lost three consecutive finals between 2010-12. This is just the second time Syracuse will play for a national title, the first being last season’s 1-0 loss to UConn.

“They're very different in their style and their approach,” said Duke coach Pam Bustin, whose team crossed paths with both during the ACC season. “I think set pieces are going to be a key component to the game. Whoever gets the momentum early and can execute the set pieces I think is going to come out on top.”

One thing the teams had in common on Friday was their ability to strike quickly. Evert scored her first goal 2:13 into the game and Fenne struck at the two-minute mark of Syracuse’s 3-1 win over two-time defending champion UConn. Both goals came off penalty corners.

“Sometimes when you get to this point, you want to win so badly that you tend to be conservative and back off and you're afraid to take chances,” Shelton said. “We want to be aggressive, and I think Syracuse feels the same way. You've got to come out of the blocks, dare to be brilliant, take chances and go for it.”

NCAA



Field Hockey Tops Ursinus and Advances to Third Straight National Championship


Rachel Kennedy scored a pair of second-half goals in Bowdoin's win (Photo courtesy of Keith Lucas)

LEXINGTON, Va. – The Bowdoin field hockey team defeated Ursinus 4-2 in the NCAA semifinals Saturday afternoon to punch their third consecutive ticket to the national championship game.

The top-ranked Polar Bears improve to 21-0 on the season while eliminating Ursinus (19-4). The last time the two teams met was in the 2008 NCAA semifinals, with the Polar Bears taking a 3-2 victory.

Bowdoin will battle conference rival Middlebury for the NCAA Division III Championship on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. The Polar Bears won the championship in 2013 (1-0 vs. Salisbury) and lost in the final in 2014 (2-0 vs. TCNJ).

How It Happened

The Polar Bears broke through with just under ten to play in the opening half, converting on a penalty corner. Mettler Growney inserted up to Emily McColgan who drew the fly before slipping a pass towards the center of the circle where Kelsey Mullaney waited for a feed. Mullaney teed up a drive from five feet inside the circle and put Bowdoin on the board at 9:29.

A goal from Nicole Barbieri with 4:26 remaining in the first half doubled Bowdoin's lead. Rachel Kennedy started the play as she worked the ball down the center of the field and broke through a pair of defenders, drawing Danielle DeSpirito towards stroke, and dished a pass right to Barbieri. Barbieri capitalized on her open look and gave the Polar Bears a 2-0 lead.

After facing increased pressure from Ursinus to open the second half, Bowdoin added a third goal 11:15 into the frame. Mullaney took a direct shot off the corner insert, with DeSpirito making a save, but Kennedy waited on the doorstep to put away the rebound.

Following a Bowdoin green card, the Bears earned a corner but were unable to convert as Kim Kahnweiler blocked the direct shot from Megan Keenan.

Ursinus eventually broke through with deflection goal from Ann Kopera. Following a corner, the ball got popped up as it cross the goal face, where Kopera waited on the right post to connect with the airborne ball.

Bowdoin regained its three goal lead off another Kennedy score with ten minutes remaining. Following the corner insert, McColgan passed to Mullaney who took another shot from the top. Kennedy waited a few steps up from the left post and deflected the drive into Ursinus' net for the team's fourth.

Ursinus tallied one final goal with under five minutes remaining in the game off a solo effort from Amber Steigerwalt. The junior split a pair of Bowdoin defenders coming down the right side into the circle and swept a shot to the opposite post.

Bowdoin outshot Ursinus 21-12 with a 13-8 edge in penalty corners. DeSpirito made six saves while Clara Belitz made seven saves for the Polar Bears.

Up Next

Bowdoin advances to its third consecutive NCAA Championship game tomorrow at 1:00 p.m. against familiar foe Middlebury

The Polar Bears and Panthers have played twice already this season with Bowdoin winning the regular season meeting and the NESCAC final both by 2-1 scores

It will be the second time the teams have met in the NCAA Championship, with Bowdoin completing a perfect season in a 4-3 triumph over Middlebury in 2007 title match

Ursinus 2 Bowdoin 4
Final     1     2     T
Ursinus (19-4)     0     2     2
Bowdoin (21-0)     2     2     4

Bowdoin Polar Bears



NTPC named official partner for HWL Final


Indian hockey team training at the National camp at SAI South Centre in Bengaluru, ahead of the Hockey World League Final in Raipur. Photo: K. Murali Kumar

State run power generation company NTPC was named as the official partner for the Hockey World League (HWL) Final to be held in Raipur from November 27 to Deecember 6.

NTPC’s partnership is the third significant signing by Hockey India for the HWL Final this year, after securing National Mineral Development Corporation as the principal partner and South Eastern Coalfields Limited as the first official partner for the year’s biggest international hockey event in the world.

This year the Indian men’s team along with Argentina, Great Britain, Canada, Belgium, Australia, Germany and the Netherlands will vie for top honours at the year’s biggest global field hockey event.

The Indian men’s team who have recently jumped two places in their world rankings to the sixth place, is expected to begin their campaign on a high.

“We welcome NTPC to the Hockey India family. NTPC Limited is India’s largest power company and its coming on board only ensures that the sport still enjoys enough interest in the corporate and public domain in India,” Hockey India Secretary General, Mohd Mushtaque Ahmad said.

“With NMDC as the principal partner and SECL and NTPC as official partners, I am confident that Raipur in the future will become an important destination for national and international hockey in India. I would also like to wish luck to the participating teams and hope to see some quality hockey on the field,” he added.

The Indian team will start its campaign against Argentina on November 27.

“NTPC is happy and proud to come on board as an official partner for the Hero Hockey World League Final 2015. NTPC strongly believes in youth development and sport is an integral way to help and promote the youth of India. We have long been associated with various sports in the past and partnering with the hockey is a step forward in his direction,” said A.K Jha, CMD, NTPC.

The Hindu



Santi Freixa wins 2015 Athletes in Excellence Award


Photo: FIH/Koen Suyk

Earlier today it was announced that Spain's Santi Freixa will receive a Foundation for Global Sports Development Athletes in Excellence Award.

The programme rewards competing and retired athletes around the world who have been role models, leaders, and champions in sport and in their communities. Selected athletes receive an unrestricted grant in the amount of $10,000 USD to further their service and career goals.

Santi’s passion for hockey has been evident throughout his impressive career whilst he has also given so much back to the sport. One particular highlight has been the 'Stick for India' organisation that he helped establish aimed at bringing hockey to underprivileged youths in Anantapur, India.

Santi's inspiring stories of perseverance, courage, and dedication throughout his career prompted FIH to nominate the former Spanish international who only retired from the game last year.

Speaking of this award, FIH President Leandro Negre said: "Santi has been an inspirational character both on and off the hockey field for many years. This award is fantastic recognition for everything he has given to the sport and the lives he has touched throughout his journey as an athlete. He is a true ambassador of hockey and all of the characteristics associated with our sport. On behalf of FIH and all of our National Associations, we would like to congratulate Santi on receiving this award."

After receiving this news, Santi said: "I'm incredibly happy with this award. I didn't expect that Global Sports Development would choose a Field Hockey Player, this is also a recognition of our sport.  'Stick for India' was created to give opportunities through our sport, hockey. This award will give us the possibility to think even bigger in the future. Luckily for the hockey community it is not just 'Stick for India' that is using hockey as a development tool for children. Projects like 'Kadish' in Africa, 'Hockey Village' and 'One Million Legs' also in India, are doing the same in other regions."

To find out more about 'Stick for India' click here.

For more information about the Foundation for Global Sports Development, click here.

FIH site

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