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News for 02 May 2017

All the news for Tuesday 2 May 2017


Van Huizen: It's not over yet

By Jugjet Singh

MALAYSIA were held to an un-necessary 1-1 draw by Japan, and then mauled 6-1 by Australia but national coach Stephen van Huizen is still optimistic of his team's performance in the 26th Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh.

The fact that Malaysia scored an equaliser off Haziq Shamsul (but the goal was disallowed by the umpires who deemed it as dangerous play) and could have changed the whole game on Sunday was van Huizen's reasoning.

"We knew playing against the World No 2 would not be easy, and the disallowed goal somehow demoralised the team and broke their rhythm. But it's not the end of the tournament for my players," said van Huizen.

He believes his charges will bounce back against Britain today.

"Australia scored two goals when two of our players were on the bench after picking up cards. Overall, I'm happy with the commitment showed by my charges who never stop playing until the final whistle."

Van Huizen said he will rally his men, and raise their optimism, as the remaining matches are against higher ranked teams.

"We will keep on trying, as we do not want to end up in the bottom. And if the final slips out of our hands, we will try and finish in the third-fourth bracket."

Last year, Malaysia ended fourth.

After Britain, Malaysia will play New Zealand on Wednesday and India on Friday.

Britain last featured in the Azlan Shah Cup in 2012 after making their debut a year earlier where they won the bronze medal.

After two matches Australia, India and Britain share four-equal points following a draw and a win respectively to stay at the top of the standings whilst Japan, New Zealand and Malaysia have one point from two matches.

TUESDAY: India v Australia (4pm), New Zealand v Japan (6pm), Malaysia v Britain (8.30pm).

WEDNESDAY: Japan v India (4pm), Britain v Australia (6pm), Malaysia v New Zealand (8.30pm).

STANDINGS

           P  W  D  L  F  A  Pts
AUSTRALIA  2  1  1  0  7  2  4
INDIA      2  1  1  0  5  2  4
BRITAIN    2  1  1  0  7  5  4
JAPAN      2  0  1  1  4  6  1
N ZEALAND  2  0  1  1  1  4  1
MALAYSIA   2  0  1  1  2  7  1

Jugjet's World of Field Hockey



Time to buck up

by S. Ramaguru


Huge task: Britain demolished Japan 5-3 in their Sultan Azlan Shah Cup match in Ipoh on Sunday. Malaysia will face Britain today. — Bernama

POH: Malaysia will need to put up a greatly-improved showing if they are to collect full points against Britain in their third match at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament.

So far, Malaysia have only one point after two matches. They drew 1-1 with Japan in their opening match on Saturday and were humiliated 6-1 by defending champions Australia on Sunday.

National coach Stephen van Huizen, however, was happy with the team’s showing against world No. 2 Australia.

“We managed to create some chances. The difference was that Australia were able to finish off their moves.

http://www.thestar.com.my/sport/hockey/2017/05/02/time-to-buck-up/~/media/488cc2d939e341209c6a63f01bd170c1.ashx?h=304&w=250

“Obviously we were disappointed with the result. We gave too much respect to Australia in the first quarter.

“But I’m happy with the performance of the players as they fought till the end.

“Losing 6-1 is tough to accept and we need to regroup ourselves and come back stronger,” said Stephen.

On the clash with third-placed Britain in the six-team tournament, Stephen said: “They are a top side and have always been a tough opponent.

“It’s not going to be an easy match and I expect them to come at us. We need to put up a better show. And we also have to prepare for our next three matches and get good results to place us in a better position for a top-three finish.”

Malaysia, however, have a poor record against Britain – winning only twice in 23 meetings. Britain have triumphed 14 times while the other seven matches ended in draws.

The last time the two sides met was in 2015 at the World League Semi Final in Antwerp, Belgium. Then, the Britons won 3-2.

Britain coach Bobby Crutchley also expects another tough encounter.

“Playing against Malaysia here is going to be difficult. It’s going to be a challenging day for us,” he said.

The most interesting clash today is the match-up between world champions Australia and India.

World No. 2 Australia, on four points, are the leaders ahead of world No. 6 India, on goal difference. Both have one win and one draw each.

Said India coach Roelant Oltmans: “Our players are beginning to blend with better understanding. We had a better match against New Zealand (India won 3-0), not giving away too many opportunities. There is now better cohesion between the forwards and midfielders. It is an area that I am pleased with but there’s room for improvement.”

India, who last won the tournament in 2010, will look towards young drag-flick specialist Harmanpreet Singh to get the goals. Harmanpreet, the national junior captain, scored two penalty corner goals in the win over the Kiwis.

Australia coach Colin Batch said nothing is assured against the skilful Indians.

“India has always been a tough team to play anywhere in this world. They are an all-round side with great character.

“It’s going to be a great match for the fans here,” said Batch.

The Star of Malaysia



Stats Speak: India’s toughest opponent Australia

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

Indian players have not modified their skills and stamina to face mighty Australian on turf Hockey. In major tournaments Kookaburras beats India very often.

44 years ago in Olympics (Munich-1972) my friend Mukhbain Singh registered a hat trick over Australia to win the pool match 3-1.

In Buenos Aires World Cup (1978) two great Ashok Kumar and Baldev Singh scored for 2-0 win against Australia.

Since then it became mirage to beat Australia in OG/WC. In turf hockey only sparking win came in 2015 Azlan Shah Cup, when Nikkin Thimmaiah have scored 3-in-row for 4-2 triumph against Australia. This victory has paved the way for bronze medal match.

Under Dhanraj Pillay captainship in 2003, India had dethroned Australia in Hockey Australia Cup final in Sydney by 5-3. Prabhjot Singh (2),Gagan Ajit Singh, Baljit Dhillon and Jugraj Singh were the scorers. It is the only match in which Indian netted 5 goals on turf hockey versus Aussies.

Australia and Australia ‘A’ –two teams were fielded in 2003 HA Cup. Ace striker Grant Schubert was played in that tourney with Australia ‘A’ team.

Here are the statistical highlights of India-Australia in international Hockey since inception:

Particulars

MP

W

D

L

GF

GA

Total

119

22

18

79

198

366

On Grass

11

7

2

2

30

09

On Turf

108

15

16

77

168

357

In AZ Cup

14

3

1

10

26

43

In 21st Century

58

10

7

41

87

188

Last 5 Matches

5

1

1

3

10

13

 

Fieldhockey.com



Black Sticks show depth for India series


Photo: www.photosport.nz

Players from the wider Vantage Black Sticks Women’s squad will see game time during this month’s five test series against India in Auckland and Hamilton.

The series opens with the first three matches played on 14th, 16th and 17th May at Rosa Birch Park in Pukekohe before tests on 19th and 20th May at the Gallagher Hockey Centre in Hamilton.

Players will share game time across the five tests, while it will be a special occasion for 21-year-old Midlands defender Tarryn Davey who has been selected from the Development Squad.

New Zealand last played India at the International Hockey Open in Darwin in May last year, where the Black Sticks came away with a 4-1 result.

Head coach Mark Hager said it’s a great opportunity to see all players in action with an eye towards important selections for the FIH World League Semi Final in Brussels next month.

“We’re looking forward to competing against a solid team on home soil with a chance for every player to put their hand up and make a statement,” Hager said.

“It will give us the chance to assess different combinations as we ramp up our preparation for World League where we need to put together a top performance.”

The Kiwis are currently ranked fifth in the world while India, ranked 12th, come into the series fresh from winning the FIH World League Round 2 event in Canada.

Presale tickets for all five games are on sale now through www.blacksticks.co.nz

MATCH SCHEDULE

Rosa Birch Park, Pukekohe
Sunday 14th May, 3pm
Tuesday 16th May, 7pm
Wednesday 17th May, 7pm

Gallagher Hockey Centre, Hamilton
Friday 19th May, 2pm
Saturday 20th May, 2pm

VANTAGE BLACK STICKS WOMEN
India Series – 14 - 20 May, 2017

SHIRT #

PLAYER NAME

REGION

POSITION

AGE

CAPS

13

Sam CHARLTON

Midlands

Defender

25

184

-

Tarryn DAVEY

Midlands

Defender

21

4

5

Frances DAVIES

Midlands

Defender

20

10

17

Steph DICKINS

North Harbour

Defender

22

4

20

Natasha FITZSIMONS

Midlands

Defender

28

59

10

Amelia GIBSON

Auckland

Goalkeeper

25

60

28

Shiloh GLOYN

Midlands

Midfielder

27

38

3

Erin GOAD

North Harbour

Defender

23

24

27

Jordan GRANT

Canterbury

Midfielder

26

68

12

Ella GUNSON

Northland

Defender

27

153

2

Sam HARRISON

Auckland

Striker

25

109

26

Pippa HAYWARD

Canterbury

Defender

26

129

19

Tessa JOPP

Southern

Midfielder

21

13

24

Rose KEDDELL

Midlands

Defender

23

151

11

Rachel McCANN

Canterbury

Midfielder

24

50

4

Olivia MERRY

Canterbury

Striker

25

157

31

Stacey MICHELSEN

Northland

Defender

26

221

9

Brooke NEAL

Northland

Defender

24

108

15

Grace O’HANLON

TBC

Goalkeeper

24

8

18

Kirsten PEARCE

North Harbour

Striker

26

68

6

Amy ROBINSON

Midlands

Striker

21

18

8

Sally RUTHERFORD

Midlands

Goalkeeper

35

138

25

Kelsey SMITH

Capital

Striker

22

44

29

Jenny STOREY

Canterbury

Defender

25

35

22

Kim TANNER

Midlands

Defender

24

16

16

Liz THOMPSON

Auckland

Defender

22

139


Hockey New Zealand Media release



Extended Black Sticks women's squad named for five-match home series with India


Mark Hager is eager to get a look at all his options in the upcoming home series against India. MARTIN HUNTER/PHOTOSPORT

New Zealand women's hockey team coach Mark Hager has named an extended 26-player squad for their five-match home series against India.

With the important World League Semifinal looming in Belgium next month, Hager is keen to look at all his options before selecting that group.

Several members of the wider Black Sticks national squad have been included to face India in Pukekohe and Hamilton, while 21-year-old Midlands defender Tarryn Davey has been selected from the development squad.

Hager felt the series was a good opportunity for a number of squad members ahead of their important trip to Brussels, where qualification for next year's World Cup was up for grabs.

"We're looking forward to competing against a solid team on home soil with a chance for every player to put their hand up and make a statement," he said.

"It will give us the chance to assess different combinations as we ramp up our preparation for World League where we need to put together a top performance."

New Zealand are fifth in the world rankings and prevailed 4-1 over 12th-ranked India when the teams last met at the International Hockey Open in Darwin in May of last year.

The visitors, though, come into the series fresh from winning the World League Round Two event in Canada.

The series starts on May 14 at Rosa Birch Park in Pukekohe, before moving to the Gallagher Hockey Centre in Hamilton for the final two tests.

NEW ZEALAND VS INDIA

New Zealand squad: Sam Charlton (Age 25, Caps 184), Tarryn Davey (21, 4), Frances Davies (20, 10), Steph Dickins (22, 4), Natasha Fitzsimons (28, 59), Amelia Gibson (25, 60), Shiloh Gloyn (27, 38), Erin Goad (24, 24), Jordan Grant (26, 68), Ella Gunson (27, 153), Sam Harrison (25, 109), Pippa Hayward (26, 129), Tessa Jopp (21, 13), Rose Keddell (23, 151), Rachel McCann (24, 50), Olivia Merry (25, 157), Stacey Michelsen (26, 221), Brooke Neal (24, 108), Grace O'Hanlon (24, 8), Kirsten Pearce (26, 68), Amy Robinson (21, 18), Sally Rutherford (35, 138), Kelsey Smith (22, 44), Jenny Storey (25, 35), Kim Tanner (24, 16), Liz Thompson (22, 139).

Match schedule:

Sun, May 14, 3pm at Pukekohe
Tue, May 16, 7pm at Pukekohe
Wed, May 17, 7pm at Pukekohe
Fri, May 19, 2pm at Hamilton
Sat, May 20, 2pm at Hamilton

Stuff



Racing lose Saint Ger battle but win war for EHL place



Racing Club de France and Saint Germain will take up France’s European spots for 2017/18 following a bizarre final day in the second phase of the elite division.

Saint Germain had already secured one of those places by landing first place in the initial phase of the competition.

For Racing, they looked in good shape before the weekend to earn one of the top two places in the second phase which brings with a ticket to the grand final where the other European place would be decided.

They grabbed a 3-3 draw against Lyon on Saturday to pretty much assure them of a final spot ahead of one last game against Saint Germain barring a very heavy swing on goal difference.

Win or draw and they were assured of advancing with Lyon – who beat CA Montrouge earlier in the day 2-1 – to the final; a loss, though, of less than 10 goals would give them an EHL place.

Jean-Laurent Kieffer gave Racing an early lead but Kevin Mercurio equalised in the third quarter to get Saint Germain back in the running at 1-1.

And Charles Verrier’s side won a late penalty stroke which Hugo Genestet scored from to make it 2-1 to Saint Ger in the closing stages. It meant the Paris side jumped above Lyon into second place and into the grand final.

For Racing, the loss actually proved crucial in giving them a European place along with Saint Ger with the other EHL place going to the winner of the grand final. If the winner of the two main competitions is the same, the loser of the grand final gets the European place.

Racing and Saint Germain will meet in the final on May 6 at 4pm (CET).

Euro Hockey League media release



Rovers and Bann to represent Ireland in Europe next season



Three Rock Rovers and Banbridge will be Ireland’s representatives in the Euro Hockey League in the 2017/18 season following the conclusion of their season.

Banbridge – who reached the KO16 this season – won the regular season campaign on goal difference ahead of Rovers last week to land the first EHL ticket.

It added to the Irish Senior Cup they won in March but they were unable to complete the clean sweep as they were edged out on Saturday by Monkstown in the EY Champions Trophy shoot-out after a 3-3 draw.

Three Rock came through their semi-final in the exact same manner, beating Lisnagarvey in a shoot-out after a 3-3 tie.

In the final, Rovers went in front courtesy of a shot from captain Jody Hosking that was turned in by Kevin Mullins. Former KHC Leuven and Rotterdam striker Mitch Darling then made it 2-0 from a solo goal, picking up the ball in his own half before shooting home past David Fitzgerald.

Davy Carson, Monkstown’s top scorer, got one back with seven minutes to go but Rovers held on for the win, continuing a remarkable run of form that saw them go unbeaten in national competitions since December.

It makes for a busy year for the Dublin club who have three European trips on the horizon as their Parahockey team prepare for the EuroHockey Championships in August while they are also national indoor champions.

Speaking about the EHL ahead, Hosking said: “I can’t wait and am delighted for that. We’ve got the European indoors, too, so it’s a big year but this group is really young but we’re only getting started.

“It’s been a long journey; we’ve had many ups and downs. For Mitch’s goal, I was dead on my feet, somewhere around my own 25! He just ran the field and gave it a fabulous finish. It’s so good to have him back after the Olympics. He’s added so much value.”

If Ireland's status remains the same, Three Rock will go into the KO16 next Easter while Banbridge will play in ROUND1. Rovers have appeared once before in the EHL, drawing with Atletic Terrassa and KHC Leuven before losing to Leuven in the KO16 2-1.

Euro Hockey League media release



Surbiton Dominate EH Women's Cup Final

By Mike Haymonds

There is no stopping Surbiton women’s relentless pursuit of domestic honours.

They completed the League championship and Cup double with a comfortable 5-0 win over Clifton Robinsons, the defending Cup holders, to add to the Champions title won last week with a 3-1 victory against Holcombe.

They have lost only one game this season when a 53-game unbeaten league run was ended with a 3-2 defeat by Leicester in February and they have now won four successive League championships and three of the last four cup finals.

They were never threatened by Clifton with the leading Premier scorer Rio gold medallist Giselle Ansley firing home the first of two drag flicks and Emily Atkinson and Hollie Webb increasing the lead before half-time.

Ansley bagged her second after 52 minutes and Hannah Martin netted a fifth two minutes from time.

Surbiton’s superiority was underlined by their winning 11 penalty corners (to Clifton’s five) from which they converted three.

They now have the challenge of a four-week wait and finding opponents to test them until their third venture into Europe where they have previously won two games (of six) and never finished higher than fifth (in 2015). By contrast, the seasons for the two Dutch and one German club will run until shortly before they compete in ‘s-Hertogenbosch.

Surbiton’s first opponents will be the Spanish club Complutense and a win would pit them against the winners of the game between Dutch hosts Den Bosch and Hermes-Monktown from Ireland.

It was the end of an era for the Reading club as their three most senior players called time on their club careers but player-coach Andy Watts and former Olympians Richard Mantell and Jonty Clarke bowed out on a high as their team beat Canterbury 6-1 in the men’s Cup Final. It was the Berkshire club’s ninth Cup triumph dating back to 1995/96 and the highest winning margin in a men’s Cup Final for 15 years.

Watts had the satisfaction of scoring twice, his first following the opener from Nick Park. Canterbury had contained their opponents for the first half but Reading pulled away with Tim Atkins increasing the lead five minutes after the interval.

The Kent side’s Australian captain Craig Boyne pulled a goal back two minutes later but further strikes by Imre Gerrits, a second for Watts and James Carson ended their hopes of a recovery.

Watts and Clarke confirmed they will be moving to other clubs while Mantell has not totally ruled out another season with Reading.

Great Britain men have made a strong start at the annual six-nation Azlan Shah invitational tournament in Ipoh, Malaysia.

World ranked seventh, they began with a 2-2 draw against India (6th)with goals from Reading’s Tom Carson and Surbiton’s Alan Forsyth followed by a 5-3 win over Japan (16th) with five different scorers – skipper Barry Middleton, Surbiton’s David Goodfield, Holcombe’s Sam Ward and Carson and Scot Forsyth.

GB are in third place, equal on points with Australia and India, and meet the bottom team hosts Malaysia (14th) today (Tuesday).

Daily Express



Men's 2nd XI Cup and Plate


Surbiton 2nd XI Cup 2017

Surbiton 2nd XI added to their clubs silverware beating Southgate men 3-1 in the Men’s 2nd IX Cup Final.

Surbiton forced the Southgate keeper Chris Baker to make some outstanding saves to deny them taking the lead but with 10 minutes left on the clock Dave Bartram finally got the goal he had been looking for, striking the back board to give his side a 1-0 lead at half time. 

Surbiton came out full of beans and quickly extended the lead from a penalty corner from Willie Marshall. Bartram went on a search for his second goal but  his tap across goal went just wide.

In the last five minutes of the game Southgate went down to ten men and Willie Marshall made it 3-0 with a wonder drag into the top corner of the goal. Southgate didn’t give up and pulled one back from a penalty corner from Chau.

Paul Reeves said; “It feels good to have won, it’s good for other club members who don’t play in the first team to play here at Lee Valley. It is rare opportunity to play here and they really enjoyed it. Southgate are quite close to us in the league so we thought it might be quite tough. It was a bit scrappy in the end but we did it.”

Men's 2nd XI Cup

Surbiton (1) 3
Bartram, Marshall

Southgate (0) 1
Chau


Belper 2nd XI men Plate

Banbury overcame Belper in a tense penalty shoot-out to claim victory in an enthralling Men’s 2nd XI Plate final.

The game started at an incredible pace as Banbury pushed hard for the early goal, winning three penalty corners in the first ten minutes.

But it was Belper who took the lead against the run of play in the 14th minute, with Chris Beastall firing a monstrous flick past Jamie Lamb.

That lead last just four minutes however as Banbury quickly hit back as Dave Clark managed to bundle the ball into the net after a penalty corner.

With the rain and wind picking up, the game became a gruelling affair, with plenty of tough tackles on display.

Banbury were then reduced to 10 men with 28 minutes to play but they held on to take the game to a penalty shoot-out.

After some great goalkeeping by Lamb, it was Louis Yates who secured the trophy for Banbury with a textbook penalty, much to his delight.

“I feel pretty ecstatic. It was a tough, tough game to play in, pretty physical, but we managed to overcome that and get through it.

“I was massively nervous before going on to take my penalty. I could hear and see the ‘keeper - he went to the right, so I went to the left!”

Men’s 2nd XI Plate

Banbury (1) 1
Clark (19)

Belper (1) 1
Beastall (15)

Banbury win 3-1 on penalty shoot-out

England Hockey Board Media release



Women's 2nd XI Cup and Plate Final


Surbiton women 2nd XI 2017

Surbiton took home their fourth piece of silver ware from the weekend as their women’s 2nd XI beat Clifton Robinsons 5-0.

Both sides started the game full of energy, challenging each other’s defence.

Izzy Petter from Surbiton had a brilliant solo run in to the circle but her reverse strike went just wide. She soon gave her side the lead after a bit of a scrap in the circle she pushed the ball over the line to make it 1-0.

Surbiton were quick on the counter attack as Petter set up her team mate Hannah Birchall to tap in the ball in the near post to make it 2-0.  Petter got her second with a fantastic reverse rocket into the goal and Surbiton’s fourth was followed soon after with Denison tapping the ball through the keeper’s legs.

Clobbies came out the second half bursting but Surbiton didn’t back down.
Denison tested the Clifton keeper, Munsey but she denied the Surbiton captain pulling out some outstanding saves. Tara Chittenden injected her pace down the left but Clifton couldn’t quite finish in the circle, Surbiton went straight on the counter but the clobbies defence worked hard to deny them furthering there lead.

A through ball found Holden who danced round the defender to hit the ball into the goal to make it 5-0. Clifton threw everything at them in the last five minute but the Surbiton defence and goal keeper managed to keep a clean sheet.

Hannah Denison said; “We have worked so hard for this, this is our biggest tournament of the year. Our average age in our squad is 17 so this is great for them to play in this environment and develop as hockey players. To have this is a big success, and it has been an incredible experience. This is pretty special playing here, seeing what went on at the Olympics many in the team are hoping to follow in their footsteps. It has been inspirational and brilliant event.”

Women’s 2nd XI Cup

Clifton Robinsons (0) 0

Surbiton (4) 5
Petter (31, 24) Denison (33) Birchall (27) Holder (55)


Sevenoaks 2nd XI Plate

The final game of a cracking weekend on Pitch 2 at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre saw Sevenoaks crowned Women’s 2nd XI Plate champions after they overcame Beeston.

As the sun finally came out after the earlier downpours of the day, Sevenoaks raced into the lead in the third minute through captain Jen Atkins, who chipped over goalkeeper Natalia Robson after a goalmouth scramble.

Beeston’s Rosario Villagra equalised in the 23rd minute with virtually her first touch of the match before Atkins then restored her side’s lead moments before the half-time klaxon sounded.

The second half was a cagier affair as both teams tried to find the next goal, one that eventually fell the way of Sevenoaks as Jet van Zalen sealed the victory after a swift attack by her team.

That goal settled the tie as Beeston were unable to hit back, with the victory being particularly sweet for Alice O’Connell, Ellie Hearn and Yas Thomas who had lost in the U18s plate final earlier in the day.

“Cheltenham played really well this morning so it was nice to come out here this afternoon and make up for it,” Hearn said.

“I feel really great, really happy and it has been a great experience. We had great supporters as well,” added O’Connell.

However, according to Thomas, before they can even think about celebrating their fantastic win the girls have more pressing matters to attend to..

“We now have to go and revise as it’s exam season!” she exclaimed.

Women’s 2nd XI Plate

Sevenoaks (2) 3
Atkins (3, 33), van Zalen (52)

Beeston (1) 1
Villagra (23)

England Hockey Board Media release



U18 Boys Cup and Plate


Surbiton U18 Cup Boys

Surbiton beat Beeston in a thrilling final to be crowned the Boys’ U18 Cup champions.

First goal came from Tom Dodwell who neatly pivoted on the spot round the keeper to push the ball over the line to give his side an early lead. Surbiton applied the pressure but the Bees defence was resilient in keeping the ball out of the goal. 

After a misplaced pass from the Surbiton defence, Gareth Griffiths tried to spectacularly beat the keeper by lobbing the ball over him but landing in the roof of the goal. Surbiton extended their lead by Zach Wallace volleying in the loose ball in a scrappy circle.

Beeston opened the second half with a goal from a well worked penalty corner for captain Ollie Rogerson to find the back board.  The fans were in disbelief as Wallace shot bobbles across the goal line but not in the goal!

Surbiton furthered their lead from a penalty corner as Ben Park neatly lifted the rebound over the keeper to make it 3-1. Beeston were determined not to be beaten and after a few penalty corners in their favour Sookias calmly hit it home to give Beeston a second goal.

With ten minutes left to play a red card left Beeston with ten men which left Surbiton to capitalise on, this saw Wallace get his second of the game with a sweet reverse strike.

Captain Ben Park said; “It feels pretty good. We lost to Beeston a few years ago so it’s nice to get revenge for that! It was a good game so we were never fully out of it; it was relief when the final whistle went. It’s great to play here especially with the big crowds, it was great to have the rivalry of the fans as well on the pitch which made it a great game to play in.”

Boys’ U18 Cup

Surbiton (2) 4
Dodwell (5) Wallace (23, 59) Park (45)

Beeston (0)
Rogerson (38) Sookias (53)


Canterbury Boys Plate U18

Two second half goals from Hugo Creaney-Birch mean that is Canterbury who leave the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre clutching the Boys’ Under 18 Plate.

The dark, menacing clouds that loomed aggressively over Stratford seem to intimidate both sets of players in the opening stages.

Cannock eventually won the game’s first penalty corner in the 20th minute and nearly went ahead through Chris Gardner if it were not for a fantastic save by Michael Eastman.

Half-time came and went with the scores still level but Canterbury took the lead just 50 seconds into the second half through Creaney-Birch’s brilliant reverse shot from a tight angle.

That goal seemed to open the heavens both metaphorically as Cannock seemed to struggle with the sudden downpour that enveloped Pitch 2, with Creaney-Birch then getting his and his side’s second.

That was enough to ensure victory for the side from Kent, much to the delight of the game’s only goalscorer.

“I’m buzzing, I’m absolutely loving it,” Creaney-Birch exclaimed.

“It’s great to score at the Olympic Park - this is my last year with these guys so it was nice to finish with a win and hopefully we will be back next year in the cup.”

Boys’ U18 Plate

Cannock (0) 0

Canterbury (0) 2
Creaney-Birch (36, 40)

England Hockey Board Media release



U18 Girls Cup and Plate


Beeston Girls' U18 Cup Winners 2017

Beeston retain their Girls’ U18 Cup title for a third year after beating Reading 6-1 at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre.

It was only in the last ten minutes of the first half when Beeston broke deadlock with Esme Burge striking the loose ball from the rebound home. She then got her second of the game as she darted round the keeper to run the ball over the line to extend the lead. A through ball from Mimi Tarrrant found the end of Brownhills stick to sky the ball into the goal to give Beeston a 3-0 lead.

Early pressure from the bees in the second half forced the Reading defence to work hard.  In the 44th minute a wonderful solo run down the right from Burge passed the ball across goal for Scutt to tap in at the near post to further Beestons lead. 

Alice Huddleston got Beestons fifth when she pulled the keeper away from goal to strike the ball sweetly into the top corner of the goal. Reading didn’t give up and Captain Abbie Dixon beat the bees defence only for her shot to go just wide of goal. She was soon rewarded for her teams hard work as she put the rebound in on the reverse to pull one back for her side. Last minute of the game Scutt got her second to end the game 6-1 to finish the game.

Mimi Tarrant said; “It feels really great and it’s great to do it with this group of girls. They are an amazing bunch, for me it has been an amazing five years at Beeston so it’s really nice to finish off with a win.

It’s been great to have a coach load of supporters, to support us, our boys and the 2nd XI. It is a really great experience playing on this pitch. Great way to finish it off.” She will be off to Harvard University net year! We want to wish her the best of luck.

Girls’ U18 Cup

Reading (0) 1
Dixon (63)

Beeston (3) 6
Burge (30, 26) Scutt (69 44) Brownhill (34) Huddlestone (60)


Cheltenham U18 girls Plate

An assured and highly competent performance ensured Cheltenham travelled home as the Girls’ Under 18 Plate final victors after beating Sevenoaks.

In a skilful game where both teams also showed incredibly sportsmanship, it was Cheltenham who took the lead very early on as Sasha Green finished off a blistering attack with aplomb.

Their advantage was doubled in the 21st minute as Green then brilliantly flicked the ball past Megan Platts in the Sevenoaks goal.

The Kent-based side grew into the game after that and it became a very even affair but Katie Gleeson ensured Cheltenham finished off in style with the very last touch of the game, her flick squeezing over the line.

For Green, it was the perfect end to a successful season for her and her team and she was overjoyed to have scored on a pitch used during London 2012.

“I am really, really, really happy because we have played together for a long time - some of us more than nine years - and it’s a great way to end the season.

“It was really cool to score, I really can’t believe that I managed to score twice in the final.”

Girls’ U18 Plate

Sevenoaks 0

Cheltenham 3
Green (2, 21), Gleeson (70)

England Hockey Board Media release



Pauline Naise rescues Amira Sailors

By BRIAN YONGA


Elizabeth Ngombo of Strathmore University (left) drives the ball with Pauline Naise of Amira Sailors in pursuit during their Kenya Hockey Union Women's Premier League match at City park Stadium on May 1, 2017. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU |  NATION MEDIA GROUP

Pauline Naise scored a penalty stroke a minute to the end as Amira Sailors fought back to hold Strathmore University Gladiators 1-1 in a Kenya Hockey Union (KHU) women’s Premier League match at the City Park Stadium on Monday.

The students had taken a deserved lead in the 23th minute after a well worked short corner ended with Strathmore defender Elizabeth Ngombo finishing past Sailors keeper Rachel Kerubo.

In another encounter at the same venue, a wasteful Greensharks beat Parklands 2-0 in a men’s Premier League encounter courtesy of a brace from Victor Osiche.

Strathmore were unable to kill of the match and Sailors’ relenting pressure in the last two quarters finally bore fruit as Naise levelled matters from the spot after Susan Oketch was fouled by Jane Murage.

Strathmore stand-in coach Fred Oracha was pleased with the result despite the two dropped points.

“We should have scored a second goal to kill of Amiras and inexperienced played apart in us conceding at the very end. I am however impressed with how our new players are settling in to our playing systems,” Oracha told Nation Sport.

Strathmore, who won this fixture 2-0 last season, were without top scorer Gilly Okumu (knee injury) and Winnie Odongo (broken hand). The students however welcomed back international Caroline Njoki, who was making her first start of the season.

The early morning rain made it difficult for both teams to string along passes on the wet turf. The students settled well and created the game’s first chance after only seven minutes but Yvonne Karanja’s shot from a resulting short corner was blocked by the Amira defence.

Amira improved following the introduction of footballer cum hockey player Naise in the 10th minute. Naise set up a through pass from Susan Oketch but the forward was unable to apply the finishing touch. Strathmore missed Okumu’s killer instinct upfront with replacement Nancy Wanjue failing to shine in the opening quarter.

The students however took the lead deep in the second quarter with their second short corner of the match as Ngombo slipped the ball past Kerubo to the delight of her teammates.

Strathmore were almost punished minutes later as erratic defending allowed Naise to drive into the Strathmore circle but Oketch was again unable to apply the finishing touch.

The third quarter saw Amira intensify their hunt for a goal with Strathmore protecting their lead. Strathmore survived three penalty corners from their opponents to the relief of their supporters.

With the win seemingly in sight, Oketch was impeded as she made her way to goal and Naise coolly slotted the ball for the equaliser to break Strathmore hearts.

In the second match, Osiche converted a first half penalty stroke before making the points safe with a field goal five minutes to the end.

Daily Nation



OTHL boys fare reasonably at the SubJr Nationals

s2h team



School boys team of One Thousand Hockey Legs, which just finished its engagement at the Bengaluru 7th Hockey India Sub-Junior National Championship (Div B), can look back their performance with pride. With three wins and draw, they did the NGO proud.

Playing against State teams which mostly consists of semi-pro players, meaning core of the team are drawn from Sports Academies and Sports Hostel inmates, the amateurish boys of OTHL have won three of the five matches they played in their six-team pool.

They drew Bengal 1-1 which ultimately topped the pool and thus qualified for the semifinals.



OTHL boys lost only one match -- to Coorg -- which scorewise appeared one-sided in favour of the victors. However, it was due to injury of prime goalkeeper and the OTHL’s inability to have an equally calibre second goalkeeper, cost the match.

OTHL, playing on official name Citizen Hockey XI, started their campaign with a positive note, defeating Himachal Pradesh 2-0.

Captain Zainul Samar and Anglo-Arabic school wunder kid Mohd Guffran striking contrasting goal apiece.

The second match against Bengal Hockey Association. Despite missing many sitters, OTHL team was trailing by 0-1 goal till 58th minute before against Zainul came with his drag flick at a penalty corner.

Third match was against Coorg, which produced vast number of international players in the past, and at least three players from the region are in the present India team doing well at Azlan Shah Cup.

Its only match India could not enter the score-board.

OTHL Coach Gurmeet Singh said that his forwards were over-awed initially by the dazzling game of their rivals, but when they woke up to the fact that it is an equal game of chance, it was too late. "The damage has been done“.

"The team did not have the confidence. Because of that, they missed many easy chances early in the game”, the coach said. "It was because our team lacked competitive exposure".

Almost shattered of their target of qualifying for the semis, the team woke up to reality and did well to beat Telengana state team 3-1, despite missing at least same numbers. Vicky Verma and Pawan, who played the Jammu Sub-Jr Nationals, among the scorers.

Last match was against Vidarbha. It seems our boys were in a good form. Excelling in all departments of the game, they displayed a wonderful game. They could defeat their rival with a tennis like score (6-0).

However, the team finished third in the pool after Bengal and Coorg.

Over all, it’s a reasonable performance by the boys, who gained valuable experience in their 10-day long Bengaluru sojourn.

They are also happy that the arrangements were excellent, each individual’s welfare taken care of.

The team thanked Hockey Bengaluru for all the work behind successful tournament.

Stick2Hockey.com



Sumrai, Deepika among HI list of national honours

s2h team



Women hockey stars Deepkia and Sumrai Tete, former's captain at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games, are among the LONG list of recommendations made by the national governing body, Hockey India, for consideration of various national level hours due this year.

Government of India, through Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, awards various categories of awards annually on the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, which is designated as National Sports Day.

Every national federation is expected to recommend their players, present and past, and coaches for the award to the Selection Committee, which will be constituted shortly. HI has again nominated Sardar Singh for Khel Ratna and Dharamvir for Arjuna this year.

Hockey India's Recommendations List is as follows:

SARDAR SINGH for Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna
SV SUNIL: Arjuna Award
DEEPIKA THAKUR: Arjuna Award
DHARAMVERR SINGH: Arjuna Award
SANDEEP SANGWAN: Dronacharya Award
ROMESH PATHANIA: Dronacharya Award
RP SINGH: Dhyan Chand Award
SUMRAI TETE: Dhyan Chand Award

Stick2Hockey.com



Sardar recommended for Khel Ratna

Sunil, Dharamvir, Deepika for Arjuna consideration


Sardar Singh 

Hockey India (HI) has recommended former National captain Sardar Singh for the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, India’s highest sporting honour.

He was the youngest player to captain India when he led the side at the 2008 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup. He has also received the Arjuna Award in 2012 and Padma Shri in 2015.

S.V. Sunil, Dharamvir Singh and Deepika have been recommended for the Arjuna Award while R.P. Singh and Sumrai Tete have been recommended for the Dhyan Chand Award.

Coaches Sandeep Sangwan and Romesh Pathania have been recommended for the Dronacharya Award.

A committee formed by the Sports Ministry will decide on the recommendations.

R.P. Singh represented the country at the 1986 and 1990 World Cups. Tete, a former Indian women’s captain and coach, was a member of the gold medal winning team at the 2002 Manchester Commonwealth Games.

Sunil is now a vital cog in the senior men’s team after his stellar performances in India’s recent success.

Deepika was instrumental in India’s first ever win at the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy last year.

Dharamvir Singh was part of the Asian Games gold-medal winning team as well as the squad that won silver at the Commonwealth Games and bronze at Azlan Shah Cup in 2015.

The Hindu

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