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News for 18 June 2017

All the news for Sunday 18 June 2017


England, Netherlands and India maintain winning form on Day 3


Mark Gleghorne celebrates scoring against Malaysia in the Hero Hockey World League Semi-Final in London. Copyright: FIH / Getty Images

London, England:  The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park was bathed in sunshine on day three of the Men’s Hero Hockey World League Semi-Final in London, where host nation England, India and The Netherlands all claimed second victories in this World Cup qualification event.

In Pool A, China (FIH Hero World Ranking: 18) and Korea (WR: 12) took to the field in the first match of the day, with China causing something of an upset by powering to a 5-2 win against their higher-ranked opponents. Su Jun scored twice in the contest for China, with Su Lixing, E Liguang and Guo Zixiang – who smashed home a glorious backhand strike in the final minute – also on target. The result gave China their first win of the competition, but leaves Korea sitting near the bottom of Pool A with zero points from their opening two matches.

"We played very well as a team today, fighting hard in the hot weather but the spirit is very high”, said China Head Coach Cui Yingbiao after the contest. “We came to England to play on the world stage and we want to produce the best performances as we as learn from all of the other great teams competing here.”

Later in the day, England (WR: 7) delighted the thousands of home fans packed into the Lee Valley Hockey & Tennis Centre with a fine 7-3 success against Malaysia (WR: 14), moving them onto six points in Pool A after two matches. Ahead of the game, England and Great Britain legend Barry Middleton was given a huge ovation by the fans in recognition of having recently become the highest capped British hockey international of all time. Fittingly, it was Middleton – who has now made a remarkable 381 international appearances – gave England the lead in the contest with a diving effort in the fifth minute before Chris Griffiths started and finished a move three minutes later to double the English advantage at 2-0.

Malaysia came roaring back into the game in the second quarter, with a Faizal Saari penalty stroke reducing the arrears ahead of a poacher’s finish from Tengku Tajuddin who fired home a penalty corner rebound after an initial save from George Pinner to level the scores at 2-2. However, England moved through the gears in the third and fourth quarters, with Sam Ward (2), Mark Gleghorne (2) and Middleton again contributing before Faizal Saari claimed his second of the game with a late consolation.

In Pool B, India (WR: 6) maintained their winning start to the competition with a comfortable 3-0 triumph against Canada (WR: 11). The Canadian side came into the match on the back of a sensational 6-0 victory over Pakistan, but found the Roelant Oltmans-coached India team a very different challenge. Sunil Sowmarpet and Akashdeep Singh established a 2-0 lead in the first quarter, with Sardar Singh making it 3-0 early in the second quarter. It was an advantage that India never looked likely to lose, and with six points from their opening two matches they will go into Sunday’s much-hyped meeting with Pakistan as heavy favourites. Despite defeat, it was a special day for Canada’s Gabriel Ho-Garcia, who played his 100th senior international match.

Like India, The Netherlands also have a maximum six points after two matches after they overcame a stern challenge from Scotland. The Dutch went ahead through Robbert Kemperman’s field goal at the end of the first quarter but did not add to their tally until six minutes after half time when penalty corner expert Mink van der Weerden netted. Valentin Verga completed the scoring nine minutes from the end to ensure The Netherlands moved to the top of Pool B thanks to their superior goal difference over India.

“Our second win, six points and zero goals against so it is a good start to the competition for us but I think we need to play better next game”, said Dutch attacker Jorrit Croon post-match. “Scotland did a really good job and they fought for every ball. We had a difficult match but in the end I think we restricted their chances and we should have scored some more goals.” 

The action continues on Sunday (18 June), with the two extremely high-profile fixtures on the agenda. At 1400 GMT, triple Olympic champions Pakistan meet eight times Olympic gold medallists India in Pool B, before home favourites England face Argentina’s Leones, the current Olympic champions, at 1600.

The top four finishers in London will qualify for the eight nation Odisha Hockey World League Final in Bhubaneswar, India, although there is a small caveat to this. If India, the host nation of the Final, do not finish in the top four then only the top three teams in London will qualify. They will be joined by the top three finishers from the Semi-Final competition in Johannesburg, South Africa, plus the highest ranked fourth place finisher from the two Semi-Final events.

When it comes to qualification for the Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup Bhubaneswar 2018, there are five automatic berths available here in London, although this will increase depending on the outcomes of the upcoming Continental Championships, which are also World Cup qualification events.

FIH site



England storm into the quarter finals with a superb 7-3 victory


Sam Ward celebrates v Malaysia MHWL

England qualified for the quarter finals of the Hero Hockey World League after a convincing 7-3 win over Malaysia. Two goals apiece for Barry Middleton, Mark Gleghorne and Sam Ward as well as a strike from Chris Griffiths, rounded off a dominant display for Bobby Crutchley’s side, much to the delight of the home crowd.

England showed attacking intent from the outset and their early dominance was rewarded when Barry Middleton broke the deadlock in the fifth minute. The number 17 dived in at the near post to expertly apply a first time finish to Harry Martin’s cross. Three minutes later Chris Griffiths doubled the host’s lead. The East Grinstead striker linked up with Sam Ward, before continuing his run to pick up the return pass and finish from close range. Malaysia threatened towards the end of the first quarter through a penalty corner but Middleton was off the line quickly to charge down Razie Rahim’s drag flick.

Three minutes into the second quarter Malaysia halved the deficit. Rahim’s penalty corner strike hit Middleton on the line and Faizal Saari stepped up to calmly convert the resultant penalty stroke.  England immediately came close to restoring their two goal cushion through both Middleton and Gleghorne but they were soon left rueing missed chances as Malaysia drew level in the 28th minute. Saari’s low drag flick was saved by George Pinner but Tengku Tajuddin reacted quickest to the rebound, to leave the score finely poised at 2-2 heading into the break.

Bobby Crutchley’s half time team talk proved to be effective as England scored two goals in as many minutes at the start of the third quarter. Firstly, Ward converted a well work penalty corner routine, before Middleton bagged his second of the game when his powerful shot went through the legs of Kumar Subramiam. David Condon’s smashed a powerful reverse stick strike onto the post before a fantastic team move gave England an unassailable 5-2 lead. Martin linked up with goal scorer Griffiths, and his first time cross was converted by Gleghorne.

David Goodfield set up Ward in the 51st minute to give the striker his second of the game before Gleghorne made it a magnificent seven with an unstoppable drag flick into the top left corner. Saari’s consolation goal took the final score to 7-3 as his powerful drag flick matched that of Gleghorne’s in the closing stages of an action packed encounter.

England sit top of Pool A and next take on Olympic Champions Argentina at 16.00 tomorrow. Tickets are available for Super Sunday here, which also features India vs Pakistan.

England 7 (2)
Barry Middleton, 5, 34 (FG, FG)
Chris Griffiths, 8 (FG)
Sam Ward, 32, 51 (PC, FG)
Mark Gleghorne, 39, 55 (FG, PC)

Malaysia 3 (2)
Faizal Saari, 19, 57 (PS, PC)
Tajuddin Tengku, 28 (PC)

England: George Pinner (GK), Henry Weir, Brendan Creed, Michael Hoare, Liam Sanford, Ollie Willars, Ian Sloan (C), David Ames, Adam Dixon, David Goodfield, Barry Middleton, Harry Martin, David Condon, Phil Roper, Sam Ward, Mark Gleghorne, Chris Griffiths, Harry Gibson (GK)

England Hockey Board Media release



England thrash Malaysia in second group clash

by Aftar Singh



KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia suffered another embarrassing defeat in the World Hockey League Semi-Finals in London.

The Malaysians played a poor defensive game and were trounced 7-3 by world No. 7 England in a Group A match at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre yesterday.

In the opening match on Friday, world No. 14 Malaysia were outplayed 5-2 by reigning Olympics champions Argentina.

Malaysia have conceded 12 goals in two matches and are at the bottom of the standings with no points.

Malaysia have two more matches to play against South Korea tomorrow and China on Tuesday. And they need to win both the matches if they hope to qualify for the quarter-finals.

http://www.thestar.com.my/sport/hockey/2017/06/18/england-thrash-malaysia-in-second-group-clash/~/media/bda5406bc9314f9da379df7c8d6354bf.ashx?h=585&w=220

England top the table by securing their second win. They beat China 2-0 on Friday.

England started off promisingly and raced to a 2-0 lead.

Seasoned campaigner Barry Middleton gave the home team the lead in the fifth minute. Henry Weir’s cross from the right was well deflected into goal by the 33-year-old Middleton.

And three minutes later, goalkeeper S. Kumar was beaten again this time by Christopher Griffiths, who scored from close range.

But Stephen van Huizen’s boys stormed back to equalise the score 2-2 in the second quarter.

Malaysia were awarded a penalty stroke in the 19th minute when Middleton used his body to stop the ball on the line.

Faizal Saari (pic) made no mistake from the spot to send the goalkeeper George Pinner the wrong way.

Nine minutes later, Malaysia equalised off their fourth penalty corner. Faizal’s drag flick bounced off goalkeeper Pinner’s pads before Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin Tengku Abdul Jalil dashed to flick the ball into goal.

But the Malaysian defence collapsed in the last two quarters.

England came back strongly to score five goals in a 22-minute spell.

Sam Ward scored off a penalty corner in the 32nd minute. Two minutes later, Middleton scored his second and England’s fourth goal from the top of the semi-circle.

In the 39th minute, Mark Gleghorne scored from close range.

Ward was on target again in the 51st minute and four minutes later Gleghorne also scored his second goal to make it 7-2.

But Faizal reduced the deficit with a penalty corner in the 57th minute to make it 7-3.

In the match against Argentina, Gonzalo Peillat netted four penalty corner goals in fourth, 11th, 40th and 47 minutes.

Facundo Callioni scored a field goal in the 49th minute.

Malaysia replied through Mohd Shahril Saabah (seventh) and Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin (18th).

The Star of Malaysia



India hands Canada its first loss at World League Semi-Final in London

Shaheed Devji


Iain Smythe and Mark Pearson mark an Indian player in Canada’s 3-0 loss at the World League Semi-Final on June 17, 2017 in London (By Yan Huckendubler)

After an impressive win in its first game, Canada’s men’s field hockey team came up on the short end of a 3-0 decision to India Saturday in London.

The loss is Canada’s first at the 2017 World league Semi-Final and – with one win and one loss on the competition – the Canadian men now sit in third in Pool B. Canada will face the Netherlands on Monday (6:00am PT/9:00am ET, CBC Sports), before closing out pool play against Scotland on Tuesday (4:00am PT/7:00am ET, CBC Sports).

Saturday’s match was a quick turnaround for Canada, which completed its match against Pakistan less than twenty hours prior.

And with the Indians likely looking to take advantage, the Canadians were put under pressure early.

“They moved the ball pretty well, and they forced us back really early in the game,” says Canadian forward Keegan Pereira. “Which isn’t exactly to our game plan and we got exploited a little bit especially early in the first and second quarters.”

India jumped on a turnover in the first minute and picking up the game’s first penalty corner, narrowly missing taking the lead on a drag flick from Harmanpreet, who put the ball high over the net.

Canadian keeper David Carter, who started in his second straight game, was called into action in the 2nd minute and made a strong stick save off Ramandeep.

Carter made another save, this time off Sunil in the 5th minute, but the Indian player was able to knock the ball in off a Canadian on the rebound and give India the 1-0 lead.

The Indians were able to score a second goal before the end of the second quarter on a deflection from Akashdeep in tight in the 10th minute, and scored a third early in the 2nd quarter, when Sardar put another goal in off a Canadian player the 18th minute.

The quick spell of goals early in the game did not allow Canada to play the way they had planned.

“We’re usually a team that likes to go after the ball and try to put pressure on the opponents,” Pereira adds. “India just held the ball really well. They just kept possession and they kept moving us.”

Canada had a chance to get on the board before the end of the first half, when captain Scott Tupper made a quick blind pass from the top of the circle to the far post to an open Floris van Son, who had the ball go just under his stick and wide.

The chance, however, was a sign that Canada had turned a corner in the match.

“The second half was better than the first half,” says van Son. “We changed our tactics a bit and that worked pretty well. The third and fourth quarter we held them to their side a litte bit better than the first half.”

Canada picked up its first penalty corner of the game in the 33rd minute, after a display of skills from Pereira. But Gordon Johnston’s high flick was stopped by Vikas Dahiya, who took over for Akash Chikte in the Indian goal in the second half.

After a string of Indian corners which were stopped by the Canadian corner defence, Pereira again found himself with the ball in the Indian circle in the 52nd minute, and moved it to Brandon Pereira at the side of the net, but his attempt went just wide.

Canada’s last chance to get on the board came in the 58th minute on a penalty corner.

After Tupper had his flick stopped, the ball popped loose in Mark Pearson and van Son both made attempts to put it in but couldn’t convert.

Despite the loss, Pereira and the Canadian men are staying positive heading into the second half of the pool stage.

“I think in the Pakistan game, and in the second half of the India game we showed that when we do keep possession ourselves and make the other team move and do what we want to do, we’re a good team,” Pereira says. “We’re a good side when we let the ball do the work.”

Field Hockey Canada media release



Canadian Sikh Brothers take on the Indians

by Dil Bahra



Brothers Sukhpal (Sukhi) Singh and Balraj Singh Panesar were in the Canadian line-up that lost 0 – 3 to India at the Hero Hockey World League semi-Final match at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre, London yesterday.

Both brothers, born in Surrey, B.C, Canada, play for United Brothers Field Hockey Club.

Sukhi, 23, earned his first international cap when he was selected to represent Canada against Brazil in Brampton, Canada on 10.03.2013. He represented Canada at Rio 2016 and has earned 89 caps.


Canada's Balraj (Red shirt) and India's Talwinder Singh (Blue shirt)

Younger brother Balraj, 21, earned his first senior international cap when he was selected to play against Mexico in Mexico City on 03.06.2014. He represented Canada at the Junior World Cup in New Delhi in 2013 and Uttar Pradesh in 2016. He has 13 caps.

The Canadians were put under pressure in the first half where they conceded all the three goals. Sunil Sowmarpet, Akashdeep Singh and Sardar  Singh scoring the goals.

Just 24 hours earlier, Canada had beaten Pakistan 6 – 0 and playing two games in such a short turnover in the heat took its toll. India had the luxury of having had a complete day’s rest.

“India had more ball possession and we were chasing the game” said Sukhi Panesar. He added “Always hard to play back to back games”

Sikhs in Hockey



India sails past Canada with ease

s2h team

Brisk start and quick goals by India unsettled yesterday's hero Canada in today's match at Queen Elizabeth Park, London. With all goals in the first half, India sailed past Canada 3-0 with consummate easy.

Within four minutes from the start, India made three quick silver attacks with Ramandeep Singh, Akashdeep Singh and Sunil playing prominent role.

Moments after missed out a sitter despite a sliding close range shot, livewire forward SV Sunil came up with a thundering acute angle push from right backline that saw the ball crashing on the far post (1-0).

Six minutes later, sustained aggressive game of India paid off. Ramandeep Singh sent slap from top of D. Even as David Carter comes to the mid of the circle to tackle, Akashdeep Singh rushed with stretched one hand stick to cut the flight and guide it to home, a velvet touch(2-0).

Two minutes into second quarter, Ramandeep Singh, showing his ever-improving status, showed a clean pair of heels to a couple of defenders to take the ball from right midfield into D and timely parted it with Sardar Singh in the circle. The veteran did rise to the occasion to push the ball into net past two rushing defenders (3-0).

There was an element of luck here, as a defender trying to stop the ball just guided the half-hearted Sardar's push into the net. India got many chances to go up, but goalie and the defence of Canada would not give in.

India got five penalty corners, one after referral, but Harmanpreet Singh who negotiated most of them was not accurate unlike yesterday.

Captain Manpreet Singh once and Jasjit Kular too tried with a penalty corner try apiece, but by the time the Canadian defence was alive to the task.

Canada pressed hard in the last quarter, when the Indians started stuttering and getting cards at drop of hat, even both captain and vice captain sitting out on the bench together.

Canada has got two penalty corners, Tupper tried on both occasions in vain.

India will take on Pakistan tomorrow in the much awaited encounter.

Incidentally, India and Pakistan will also fight it out Champions Trophy cricket final tomorrow in the same host city.

Indian captain Manpreet Singh hoped India will win triumph on both events

Stick2Hockey.com



India's disciplined win over Canada boosts confidence ahead of Pakistan clash

Sundeep Misra


India dominated Canada in their 3-0 win. Image courtesy: Twitter/@TheHockeyIndia

Controlling a match has rarely been Indian hockey's hallmark. But the discipline and authority displayed in the 3-0 result against Canada showed that this could become the new normal. The Canadians came into the match on a high, after beating Pakistan 6-0; a result as shocking as the gameplan by Pakistan. But by the third minute of the first quarter, Canada realized that another upset win would require some real work in the midfield.

Any chance of an upset was gone when India played up, almost bull-dozing the Canadian midfielders to turn into part-time and then full-time defenders. India let go an early penalty corner but SV Sunil gave India the lead in the fifth minute with a deft placement.

Canada were rattled early as India controlled the ball with Harmanpreet Singh, Chinglensana Singh, Surender Kumar and Manpreet Singh rotating waiting for the right openings as players in the midfield and forward line did some effective off the ball running. Ramandeep Singh was all around the Canadian striking circle thus creating space for Akashdeep Singh and Sunil.

In the 10th minute, Ramandeep found space and squeezed in a through ball from the top of the circle. Akashdeep, with a defender behind him, saw the Canadian goalkeeper David Carter advance. That was enough for Akashdeep to deflect the ball past his pads. With the score 2-0, Canada was searching for options; the Indians were not giving away any loose balls.

Though, an India-Canada match has never risen to any sort of great rivalry, a few defeats in the 90s had given fillip to the Canadians. In the '98 Utrecht World Cup, Canada beat India 4-1. At the post-game press conference, coach had Shiaz Virjee, said, “I think that this is the greatest day in the history of men's field hockey in Canada. The result is a boost to field hockey in our country!”

After the thrashing of Pakistan, one wouldn’t have put it past the present coach Paul Bundy to think on the same lines. In the last match played between both the nations at the Rio Olympics, Canada had held on to draw the match 2-2. In the process, India had lost points and probably a semi-final spot as they met a strong Belgium side in the quarter-finals. But in the three matches previous to the Rio Olympics, India had won 3-1 (Azlan 2016), 5-3 (Azlan 2015) and 3-2 (2012 Olympics qualifiers).

By the end of the second quarter, India has missed two penalty corners. But the side was combining well with forwards racing into empty spaces, keeping the Canadian defenders busy. The result was that attacks from Canada dried up. In the first two quarters, Canada penetrated the Indian striking circle five times while India ravaged them 10 times. Time and again, Sunil on the right flank and Chinglensana on the left created moves that had the fans in the stadium applauding. In the midfield, Sardar, Harjeet, Manpreet cut down the errors and patiently controlled the moves.

The move of the match came in the 18th minute, in the second quarter, when Ramandeep seized the ball, almost at the half-line and sprinted through. He was followed by Sardar and then Sunil running parallel. Such was the speed that the Canadian defenders fell away and just when one thought that Ramandeep might try and take a shot, he beautifully played a deft pass to his left where an overlapping Sardar pushed into goal. It was a classy Ramandeep move finished off by Sardar.

At 3-0, Canada seemed finished. India were dominating the flanks and the midfield, and suddenly the fluid moves displayed by Canada against Pakistan were something of the past.

If there was an area of concern it was the conversion of penalty corners. India had five and Harmanpreet was not on the pitch for two of those. Yet Jasjit Kular and others should have converted.

There was an indirect conversion but Manpreet’s blazing shot went past the post. On one occasion, Chinglensana’s reverse hit rebounded off the post. Canada had two penalty corners and Vikas Dahiya,who played the entire match, showed pluck to advance and take the flicks onto his gloves.

Indian coach Roelant Oltmans was happy with the performance. “It was what I expected from the team,” he said. “They held the ball and controlled the game. We had studied the Canadians and had always told the team that Pakistan might have lost to them but they had more penetrations. So we had to be careful. For me every match is important in this tournament.”

By the end of the third and fourth quarter, India had slowed the pace of the match down. That was Canada’s best spell in the match as Gabriel Garcia, playing his 100th match, combined and came close to scoring with Floris Son. A few melee’s ensued but Dahiya showed superb presence of mind to clear the ball to safety. Canada, looking for a consolation goal couldn’t get any.

Sardar, happy that he was on the scoreboard, said the reason for India not playing with the same intensity in the fourth quarter was that knowing the match was a closed affair, they decided to kill off the pace. “We also have a match on Sunday against Pakistan and it is better to relax rather than go for more goals,” explained Sardar.

Against Canada, India now have played 37 matches, winning 26, losing seven and drawing four. Being in sync is always critical and against Canada, the Indian team got most of it right.

FIrstpost



Impressive India beat Canada 3-0

LONDON: India came up with a clinical all-round performance to beat Canada 3-0 in their second match of the Hockey World League Semi-Final on Saturday. Goals by SV Sunil (5'), Akashdeep Singh (10') and Sardar Singh (18') helped India register their second successive win in Pool B to top the table.

India got off to a rollicking start displaying brilliant counter-attacking skills. The effort resulted in winning a penalty corner in the opening minute of the match. It was forward SV Sunil at the baseline who found the foot of Canadian defender but the chance went amiss with Harmanpreet Singh's powerful flick going above the post. The forwards, however, were impeccable as they kept up the pace to find gaps in the Canadian circle. It was Sunil who found an early breakthrough in the 5th minute when he fired across from the baseline to put the ball in the post. The 1-0 lead was doubled in the 10th minute with Akashdeep Singh who timed his run perfectly to receive from Ramandeep Singh from the top of the circle to deflect the ball past Canadian keeper David Carter. India went into the first break with a solid 2-0 lead.

India continued to put pressure on Canada with their third goal in the 18th minute. It was Ramandeep Singh on the counter attack who accelerated towards the circle to push the ball towards Sardar Singh who had doubled up as a forward. The celebrated midfielder was effortless in nicking the ball into the post leaving no chance for Carter to save. Even as Canada struggled to find an opportunity to score, Indian defenders were up to the task to keep them at bay.

The third quarter saw India keep up the tempo with an all-round performance. They were calm in their pursuit, rotating the ball with disciplined passes and good man-to-man marking that helped defend their score. Vikas Dahiya, who substituted Akash Chikte at the goalpost after the half time, made two good saves when Canada came close to having a real good shot on goal. India won two back-to-back PCs this quarter but Canadian defence was strong enough to keep the dangerous dragflicker Harmanpreet Singh from converting. The quarter ended with no changes to the score-line.

India started the fourth quarter with just nine players with both captain Manpreet Singh and his deputy Chinglensana Singh sitting out with a green and yellow card respectively. But that didn't dent India's chances as they contained Canada from taking advantage. Canada won their second PC with less than two minute for the final hooter but a great stop by Surender Kumar denied Canada from converting and India walked away victorius. "We played well in first two quarter but were a bit unlucky to convert chances in the third and fourth quarter, credit must go to the Canadian goalkeeper for coming up with good saves. Overall I am pleased with the performance," expressed chief coach Roelant Oltmans post the match.

"We want to give our best against Pakistan. Cricket also playing Champions Trophy final and we are confident that India will win in Cricket as well as in Hockey," stated skipper Manpreet Singh about their next match against Pakistan.

India will play Pakistan in their third Pool B match on June 18 at 18.30 hours IST.

The Times of India



India virtually through to quarters after thrashing Canada 3-0

India scored three field goals through SV Sunil, Akashdeep Singh and Sardar Singh to pocket full three points from the Pool B game at the Lee Valley Hockey Centre.


SV Sunil lines up a shot during India's clash with Canada on Saturday (Photo credit: Hockey India)

Continuing with their impressive run, India blanked Canada 3-0 to register their second consecutive win at the Hockey World League Semi-final on Saturday. India scored three field goals through SV Sunil (5th minute), Akashdeep Singh (10th) and Sardar Singh (18th) to pocket full three points from the Pool B game at the Lee Valley Hockey Centre.

The win virtually secured India's place in the quarterfinals of the tournament. India had earlier defeated Scotland 4-1 in their opening encounter on Thursday. The sixth ranked Indians will play arch-rivals Pakistan in their next pool match on Sunday.

India meant business from the onset and secured their first penalty corner as early as in the opening minute of the game, but Harmanpreet Singh's effort sailed over the goal. Two minutes later, India's last match hero Ramandeep Singh's shot from the top of the circle was saved by David Carter in front of the Canadian goal.

India's persistent attacks resulted in the first goal in the fifth minute when Sunil scored from a narrowest of angles after his initial shot was saved by Carter. India doubled their lead five minutes later through Akashdeep who neatly deflected in a Ramandeep pass.

India continued in the same vein in the second quarter and increased their lead in the 18th minute through Sardar who pushed home from a Ramandeep pass. India earned their second penalty corner in the 25th minute but Jasjeet Singh Khular's try went wide of the target as Roelant Oltmans' men went into the breather with a comfortable 3-0 lead.

Three minutes into the second half, Canada earned a penalty corner but India goalkeeper Akash Chikte made three saves in quick succession, first denying Keegan Pereira twice and then palming away Scott Tupper's shot.

Minutes later, India secured their third penalty corner and skipper Manpreet Singh's try from a variation was brilliantly kept away by Carter. The Indians continued to press hard and garnered two more penalty corners but failed to capitalise on the chances yet again. India won the game on Saturday, but coach Oltmans would be worrying about his team's poor conversion rate from penalty corners.

Meanwhile, in the first match of the day, China defeated Korea 5-2 in Pool A.

DNA



Scots battle hard but the Dutch come out on top


(Photo: FiH/Getty)

Scotland men battled hard against a top-class Netherlands side in their second match of the World League Semi-Final in London, but it was the fourth-in-the-world-ranked Dutch who came out on top with a 3-0 win.

Scotland were composed early doors and passed the ball around with confidence. The first opportunity of the match came after around five minutes; a Dutch move down the right broke into the Scots D but some good cool defending by Tim Atkins under pressure drew a foul, and gave Scotland the opportunity to build from the back.

The first penalty corner of the match was awarded to Scotland. Kenny Bain injected for Willie Marshall, who sent a low flick goal ward but it evaded the sticks of the diving Nick Parkes and Bain for an easy save.

Then it was a “heart in mouth” moment when the Dutch were awarded a penalty corner. It came after a good save by Tommy Alexander found a Scots foot. The goalkeeper, who has been on top form so far in the tournament, produced another top save from the penalty corner and batted the ball clear with his left pad.

Scotland surged forward with positivity and Lee Morton drove into the Dutch D, but was crowded out by Dutch defenders.

Then some superb defending by Callum Duke put a Dutch attack down the left to an end inside the Scotland D. He looked strong, quick, and in control as the threat emerged on the flank.


(Photo: FiH/Getty)

Then all of a sudden, one lapse of concentration was punished by the top-class opposition. A lovely touch at the top of the D by Glenn Schuurman set up Robbert Kemperman to score for the Netherlands just before end of the first quarter.

Early in the second quarter there was a notable increase in pressure from the Dutch – a high press made the Scots work hard at the back.

The Netherlands then won a penalty corner off the foot of Marshall and the ominous sign of drag flick expert Mink Van Der Weerden at the top of the D screamed danger. But Alexander met the drag flick with a tremendous reaction save to keep the score at 1-0.

Then came a piece of sublime hockey by the Dutch to open Scotland up on the left of the D, but the final effort was scooped high over the bar by Jonas De Geus.

Scotland came agonisingly close to an equaliser with a minute of the half remaining. Some great play by Bain on the right had him fire the ball across the keeper but Wei Adams couldn't get a touch to surely bag an equaliser.

Into the second half and an error in defence allowed the Dutch to break into the Scots D, a penalty corner was then conceded by Russell Anderson. Van Der Weerden stepped up again but this time he slipped it low and wide of the goal. Scotland escaped again.

Just moments later and Scotland conceded another penalty corner after an attacker’s legs were hooked by Gavin Byers. This time the deadly Van Der Weerden picked his spot in the right corner of the net to make it 2-0. Alexander in goal for the Blue Sticks had absolutely no chance.


(Photo: FiH/Getty)

Scotland were not going to go away without a fight. A lovely turn by Byers allowed him to surge forward towards the Dutch D but his pass for Bain was well cut out.

Then another delightful piece of play by Scotland opened the Dutch up, the ball was sent to the far post for Bain who dove in to finish, but the ball was touched away from him to deny the goal.

Then came the best chance of the match, a brilliant break by the Scots had Bain send Alan Forsyth through on goal but the striker couldn’t find the finish with the ball bobbling.

The Netherlands broke forward and won another penalty corner. This time Van Der Weerden’s drag flick was charged down superbly by Anderson, showing great bravery.

The Netherlands then made it 3-0 with ten minutes remaining. A slick move into the Scots D had Robbert Kemperman pick out Valantin Verga in front of goal to finish under pressure from Parkes. 3-0 was how it finished and the Scots now prepare for their next game against Pakistan on Monday.

Scottish Hockey Union media release



Peillat ready for another crunch game with England


Peillat

Argentinian Olympic gold medal winner Gonzalo Peillat is ready for another frenetic encounter against England in the Hero Hockey World League Semi Final.

The two sides played a friendly game before the event began, and there was no quarter given in a bruising, physical encounter.

There is of course great respect between the teams, and with both sides having won two matches out of two, something has to give.

Peillat said, "We played a friendly game before this tournament and it was really close. It was completely physical, they are very strong and very fast, they improve a lot and getting better every time.

"I think England are really strong, they changed a lot of players in the last year but they still have a very good team.

"I hear it’s a big crowd which is perfect. It’s like the Hockey Pro League which is coming soon! We look forward to this competition with a lot of fans and I think it’s going to be amazing."

England Hockey Board Media release



Dhanraj Pillay recollects the magic and drama of an India-Pakistan hockey match

Amit Kamath


Dhanraj Pillay carries India's flag after their win over Pakistan in the semi-final of the 14th Asian Games in 2002. REUTERS

There is an anecdote from his career that Dhanraj Pillay tells with particular relish. In it, he’s barely 22 years of age. In it, he’s playing against Pakistan, even then considered the greatest nemesis by the Indian hockey team. In it, he’s running circles around the Pakistani players. In it, there’s Pakistan coach Islahuddin bellowing ‘woh kaale ko pakdo (mark that dark guy)’ at his defenders. In it, the defenders try and fail. For, the 22-year-old was uncatchable.

He would remain so for decades.

“That match gave me a lot of confidence. I never looked back after that. Their coach’s yelling will stay in my mind forever. We went on to win that match and I scored two goals,” says Pillay.

On Sunday, many summers after that young Pillay had traumatised the Pakistani defence, India will play arch-rivals Pakistan at the Hockey World League Semi-Finals in London. A lot of things have changed in the interim: teams from the subcontinent have adapted technical and tactical hockey centred around passing rather than individual dribbling, matches have become 60-minute affairs instead of 70.

But one thing hasn’t changed.

“It was something that was said in the dressing room, ‘Lose to anyone, but don’t lose to Pakistan.’ I’m sure even the Pakistanis always took the pitch with the same mindset. This is something that has prevailed since the time of the partition (in 1947). When you play Pakistan, you always try to give better than your best,” Pillay says.

Pillay knows a thing or two about giving his best against Pakistan. He has been the architect of many memorable victories over them, none more so than the 5-2 victory he inflicted on Pakistan in 1995 at the inaugural South Asian Federation Games (SAF Games).

Pillay scored three goals against Pakistan, the reigning World Cup champions at that time, in that match to drive the country’s hockey fans into delirium.

“After that match, I became a household name in the country. The Pakistani players used to hit me on the pitch and would resort to any measures to upset my rhythm,” Dhanraj recollects.

He adds that even when India were not playing Pakistan, things tended to boil over. He recollects a match from the 1990 World Cup, held in Pakistan. Pakistan were in the final of the World Cup, but India had to make do with playing classification matches for the ninth spot having finished last in their six-team group.

During one of the matches in Lahore, the players noticed smoke emanating from the stands. The game was soon stopped by the officials when it became apparent that the Indian Tricolour was being burnt in the stands.

“We were guests of their country, and this was the treatment being meted out to us. We were hurting from the inside to see our flag being burnt. The FIH technical director came up to our coach and told him that we had the option not to play if we wanted as it was too dangerous,” Pillay recalls.

While India eventually ended that tournament in 10th spot, Pakistan lost the final to the Netherlands.

Sunday’s match, being played in London, will certainly not see tensions boiling over like they did 27 years ago, but players will still be keen to give better than their best on the pitch.

Players would do well to remember the locker room diktat: ‘Lose to anyone, don’t lose to Pakistan.’

Firstpost



Six India-Pakistan hockey classics

Jamie Alter

NEW DELHI: June 18 is a blockbuster Sunday for sports fans in the country, for it will see two much-awaited India v Pakistan match-ups in the same city, London - the first, between the cricket teams of both countries when the final of the ICC Champions Trophy gets underway at Kennington Oval followed by a meeting of the men's hockey teams in the Hockey World League Semi-Final at the Lee Valley Hockey & Tennis Centre.

To whet the appetite, here is a look at six famous India v Pakistan hockey matches.

1960 Olympics

Pakistan had competed in four Olympic Games (1948, 1952, 1956, 1960) without success, owing largely to India's dominance as a hockey force. That changed in 1960, when Abdul Hameed's team claimed gold by beating India 1-0. The lone goal of the final was scored in the 11th minute by inside-left Naseer Bunda, who weaved his way past India's strong right-flank and beat the legendary goalkeeper Shankar Lakshman. India, captained by the veteran half-back Leslie Claudius, fought valiantly but could not level the scores thereafter, that Pakistan win ended their unbroken 32-year streak - six successive gold medals - at the Olympics. It was an upset for the ages.

1975 World Cup

Pakistan entered the 1975 as the top team in men's hockey, having won the inaugural World Cup four years earlier. India, led by Ajit Pal Singh, went in determined to bring back the trophy from Kuala Lumpur and did just that, winning three games out of five, including over reigning Olympic champions Germany, to reach the semi-finals. There, they pipped hosts Malaysia 3-2 to set up a tantalising summit clash with Pakistan.

Zahid Shaikh's early goal gave Pakistan the advantage, but it did not last for long as Surjit Singh's converted PC made it 1-1. What followed was a very controversial moment which threatened to sour relations between the two teams - and countries - when a shot from forward Ashok Kumar (son of the legendary Dhyan Chand), hit the goal post and rebounded. The Pakistan players protested while Ashok and his team-mates celebrated, and the goal was awarded when the referee ruled that the ball had crossed the line. That was the goal which sealed India's victory, which remains their only World Cup title.

2002 Champions Trophy

This one didn't end well for India, but it was a thriller. In the bronze medal play-off match in Cologne, Germany, India had done everything right to claim a 3-1 lead by the 56th minute - goals scored by Jugraj, Dilip Turkey and Gagan Ajit - only to let it all go by conceding three goals in five minutes. Pakistan's resurgence came in the form of Mudassar Ali Khan - who had earlier scored in the 28th minute - when he converted a lovely pass from Waseem Ahmed in the 63rd minute. Two goals from Rehan Butt, who entered the game as a late substitute, in the 65th and 67th minutes completed a remarkable win for Pakistan, leaving India to again rue a bout of the jitters in the dying passages of a game.

Small compensation, if at all, came in Dhanraj Pillay, at the age of 34, being named Player of the Tournament - the first Indian hockey player to win a Champions Trophy individual honour.

2003 Champions Trophy

This thriller took place at Amsterdam's Wagener Stadium, and it was a corker. Pakistan dominated the initial phase of this match, scoring two goals in 20 minutes and then owning a 4-2 lead early into the second half. But then came a most dramatic period of attack from India, sparked by Jugraj Singh, which saw five goals scored - three of which came in the spandex five minutes with hardly ten minutes left on the clock.

Jugraj, at the time a promising drag-flicker with plenty of hopes pinned on him, began to weave his magic when he repeatedly blocked the dangerous Sohail Abbas from PCs, and then slotted in two goals to reduce Pakistan's advantage.

Then, in the 51st minute, Deepak Thakur slotted in a goal off a deflection from Baljit Singh Dhillon to make it 3-4. In the 55th minute, a long pass from Pillay resulted in a fourth goal as Prabhjot Singh beat the Pakistan goal-keeper - and the scores were level. Now sensing something epic, India's forwards applied the pressure on the opposing defenders and in a magical closing period, Gagan Ajit Singh scored twice in the 60th and 61st minutes, followed by Thakur making it 7-3 in the 65th.

2005 Champions Trophy

Following the 1996 edition of the tournament, this one was also held in Chennai, at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium. India had lost their opener to reigning champions Spain 1-2, and when they slipped to 0-2 against Pakistan after a scoreless first half, the signs were not good. But then, stunningly, the hosts scored three goals in the final ten minutes to remain in contention for a podium finish.

The first of those came from Tushar Khandekar in the 60th minute, but what really stunned Pakistan was a brace from a young Sandeep Singh, who would go on to carve a name for himself in the pantheon of Indian hockey. The drag-flicker slapped in two terrific drag-flick goals in the 61st and 66th minutes, from which Pakistan never recovered. As the video below shows, it was riveting hockey from Sandeep.

2010 World Cup

The Indian team, skippered by Rajpal Singh, outplayed Pakistan 4-1 on a dramatic opening day of the World Cup held at the Dhyan Chand National Stadium, which was their first win over the arch-rivals in four matches. Two PCs to Sandeep and a goal each to Shivendra Singh and Prabjot Singh put India up 4-0 before Sohail Abbas converted the sole PC that Pakistan managed in six attempts. India dominated the first half, and their win was underlined by some excellent running and passing which in the end proved decisive. India's midfield supremacy left Pakistan searching for answers, and Sandeep's two PCs snuffed out all chances of a comeback.

The Times of India



Scotland U21 women get off to winning start in Belfast


Chloe Hardie Scotland U21 Women

Scotland U21 women started their three game test series against Ireland with a great 2-1 win in Belfast.

The Scots got off to a roaring start with a fast break down the line and a crash ball into the penalty spot. This prompted a fantastic finish from Lorna Cruickshank to set the team off to a flying start. 1-0.

The scots looked solid and comfortable following the early goal, which helped the team to continue a positive approach for the rest of the game. They created another opportunity when Mckenzie Bell drove strongly into space and offloaded the ball to Chloe Hardie. Hardie passed to Lexi Sabatelli at the top of the circle who guided a fantastic reverse strike into the bottom corner, giving the Scots a 2-0 lead.

Throughout the match Ireland had a few opportunities but goalkeepers Susan Al-Haddad and Megan Inch dealt well with the pressure when questions were asked.

In the third quarter, an Irish break through the centre of the pitch saw the hosts grab a goal back. Scotland were resolute for the rest of the match however and the score remained at 2-1 for the final hooter.

The games against Ireland are in preparation for when Scotland travel to the Czech Republic to compete at EuroHockey Junior Championship II on 16-22 July against Turkey, Russia and Czech Republic in Pool A of the tournament. Pool B has Ukraine, Poland, Belarus and Austria.

The Scots are looking forward to their next two matches against Ireland as they prepare for the tournament, and will drive to keep the wins coming.

Scottish Hockey Union media release



Purpose-built stadium required to make Pro League viable for Ireland

Pels and McCracken on the Irish bid


Ireland have been ruled out of the Hockey Pro League in favour of recent opponents Pakistan. Pic: Adrian Boehm

Hockey Ireland chief executive Jerome Pels says the current infrastructure, primarily the lack of a suitable stadium, meant that it was not financially viable to take part in the first wave of the Hockey Pro League.

The FIH’s new competition was launched last Sunday, naming nine men’s and women’s nations who will take part in the first four seasons of the League which gets underway in January 2019.

The competition will see the nine selected nations play each other on a home and away basis, “following the sun” with the first half of the season designed to be played mainly in the southern hemisphere between January and March before moving north from April to June.

Based on the world ranking list, Ireland’s men might have hoped to be part of the list. But 13th ranked Pakistan were chosen ahead of them with their proposal to host games in Glasgow – due to security issues in their homeland – proving more attractive to the selection body.

Speaking to the Hook, Pels said he was disappointed with the Pro League press release that pitched the event as involving “the nine best men’s and women’s teams from around the world”.

Reflecting on that line, Pels said: “It read that the Irish team wasn’t good enough, that our ranking wasn’t good enough and that others ‘qualified’ for the league.

“We want to reiterate for us that Irish hockey is not good enough is absolutely not the case. It’s the commercial side of things where the issues are.”

The FIH’s Jason McCracken confirmed as much to The Hook, saying: “Unfortunately Hockey Ireland do not currently have a suitable venue in which to host their home games and that is where their bid fell short this time around.

“We are sure that with some more time to work on the infrastructure of the sport in Ireland they will able to submit a stronger bid next time. Bidding for the 2023 League onwards will open in 2021.”

Expanding on this, Pels told The Hook: “You need to quite a bit of financial support to be able to go to seven or eight away matches. The main driver of income to participate is through your home games.

“If you don’t have your own stadium, it's very hard to make a business case to make it work. It’s important that we will have the ability to host games and attract a large audience, creating what the FIH now call ‘a show’, a good product for television.

So where will the new stadium be? The impasse with UCD has been well publicised in recent months and Pels says this is not the preferred destination.

“Ideally, we have a plot of land reserved in our name in Abbotstown with planning permission attached at the National Sports Campus. That is still the way we want to go. It will be a huge effort to develop it.”

“This introduction of the Pro League, for us, makes it a good moment for us to go to the government and Sport Ireland to explain the need for having a place where we can host if we want to develop hockey to the next level.

“Our ambition is to be a top eight country so we need to have the possibility to host big matches. The issue is now how to find the funding for it.”

What plans are there in place to find that finance to build the new venue? Currently, Pels is speaking with designers to establish what the actual cost would be for such a venture but does admit “the [financial] position of Hockey Ireland is pretty weak so quite a bit needs to happen”.

In addition to the cost of building a purpose-built stadium, Pels says that is not the end of the costs with eight away trips each year requiring a huge outlay, one which government funding is unlikely to cover.


FIH CEO Jason McCracken says that there will still be opportunities for Ireland to play the Pro League teams regularly

“From experience, to play outside of Ireland in Europe is normally about €40,000 to 50,000; going to South America or Australia, it's €60,000 or 70,000.

“You get the scale of the costs. Our current funding is based on the events that have ranking points, have qualification for the World Cup or Olympic events or a medal event like the Europeans. Competing in this league, we would need to have an additional budget.”

For players, this will likely mean six months in close to a full-time environment with the national team. The aspiration of the league is to offer hockey as a career choice, leaving students and workers in a difficult position if they wish to take part.

While the FIH envisages large revenues – cited in some quarters as approaching $150 million – national federations will be required to cover their costs.

“If you sign up for the league, you sign up your players for at least four months commitment to actually play those games,” Pels adds. “We don’t know how we could provide financial help for those players for the time they do this for Ireland [and not for the club].”

For example, had Ireland been selected for inclusion, a player could have to make a choice between playing for his professional club in the Netherlands or linking up with Ireland and incurring a loss of income unless Hockey Ireland could make up the shortfall.

“It is Hockey Ireland’s policy to support club hockey, whether it’s the national league or players in a European league. This is in our strategic plan – we believe it is good to have players in leagues that provide professional hockey, where Irish players can make money from playing the game.

“That’s important for us. We don’t how this will understand how this works with the new league. We put in a good bid based on our level of playing. But we were also very realistic on the commercial side that it's very difficult for us to undertake now, to put these players under contract and pay them to do this.”

Ernst Baart's be-hockey.com blog has flagged some of the issues for the club game. In response to this, McCracken says that the FIH will be meeting with national associations in July regarding this but did not directly answer about potential conflicts for contracted players.

“Scheduling will be a key part of this,” he said. “We are clear that there will be as much flexibility as possible to ensure we find a workable solution for all clubs and players.

“The aim will be for each athlete to be able to play at both international and club level throughout the season, and we will be factoring travel and recovery times into this.

“We understand the importance of club hockey, especially with regards to the development of grassroots hockey, and as the world governing body, this is something we are incredibly passionate about. The needs of the clubs within each national association will, therefore, be a key component of the scheduling jigsaw.”

This could perhaps open new opportunities for Irish players. The likelihood is that Argentinean, Australian and New Zealand internationals may prove a less attractive option to bring in for Dutch and Belgian clubs with Irish players potentially filling in the gaps.

Another concern was that Ireland would not get to play the top teams as frequently as now. One of the rules, though, of the Pro League is that those involved cannot play each other outside of this time.

As such, Pels says Ireland will look to, say, play New Zealand or Australia when they are on the northern leg of their Pro League campaign in England or Belgium in test matches.

McCracken, meanwhile, is keen to see that the Pro League will not stretch the level of quality between the haves and have-nots.

“We will be working hard with all national associations to ensure this is not the case. Teams like Ireland who missed out on the Hockey Pro League will still have multiple opportunities to play the top teams, whether against Hockey Pro League teams in test matches, continental events or invitational tournaments.


Top Irish players could have been caught in a club v country situation had they been included in the Pro League. Pic: Adrian Boehm

“In addition, there will, of course, be the Hockey World Cup, the Olympic Games and the new events which will replace Hockey World League Round 1 and 2.

“Our ambition is to ensure revenue generated by the Hockey Pro League will be reinvested in hockey at all levels, therefore also benefitting nations outside the League.”

Should Ireland be included at a later date, the question remains, with a stadium in place, is there a market in Ireland to make it financially sustainable to support hockey at this level?

“I don’t know. It’s only when we try [that we will see]. There are lots of indications that it will be the case. The strategy for us is to be the Irish ‘team game’ in the Olympic Games.

“For the road to Tokyo, we have to build up that hype and support. We have a place in the market because of that. With our growing success, that is possible.”

The Hook also asked for Jerome Pels’ personal views on the Hockey Pro League: “In theory, it can change the game. The good points are the television format and how to create hockey as a product that is attractive to television.

“In practice, there are many questions around how it will go. My personal view is I would rather a competition structure which is linked to a clear ranking.

“This is kind of a closed shop event that stands on its own. It’s not linked to a World Cup or Olympic qualification or a competition structure which I would have preferred. It’s a scheme under which a group of nations play each other.

“This could be a weak point for the viewer who may wonder ‘what am I actually watching?’”

He draws a similarity from his sailing background: “You can see parallels with the Americas Cup which is an interesting competition. It is a challenge, not a competition you qualify for.

“It stands on its own, is high level and is a very good television product but is not necessarily a worldwide competition.”

The Hook



11-0! Ommalla bags hat-trick as Orange humiliate Multimedia

By BRIAN YONGA


Telkom Kenya players celebrate a goal during their Kenya Hockey Union women's Premier League match against Multimedia University at City Park Stadium on June 17, 2017. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU |  NATION MEDIA GROUP

Kenyan international Betsy Ommalla scored a hat-trick as champions Telkom Orange thrashed Multimedia University 11-0 in a Kenya Hockey Union women’s Premier League match at City Park Stadium, Nairobi on Saturday.

Forwards Audrey Omaido, Maureen Okumu and Jane Ofula scored twice each as Orange recorded their ninth straight win of the season to maintain their 100 percent record this season.

Defender Terry Juma and Caroline Guchu also got their names on the score sheet as the league leaders opened a six-point lead over second-placed United States International University of Africa(USIU-A) Spartans.

It was a largely comfortable result for Orange, who are chasing a record 20th league crown. Orange assistant coach, Josephine Ataro, was purring after the huge scoreline.

“It was a good performance from my players. We totally outplayed them and the win shows how hungry we are to defend our crown,” Ataro said. “We managed to keep another clean sheet and that also shows our performances are all-round,” the former national team first-choice goalkeeper added.

The game was done and dusted in 13 minutes as Orange scored five times, ruthlessly carving open the Multimedia defence in impressive fashion. Joint top scorer Jackline Mwangi was a last-minute absentee for Orange, forcing Ataro to pair up Omaido with Ofula upfront, with Okumu out wide.

OPENED THE SCORING

The trio tormented the students and combined for Orange’s first short corner. The resulting short corner bore the first goal as Ommalla fired the ball past Multimedia keeper Faith Morei.

In the seventh minute, Orange doubled their lead through another short corner with Juma finishing off. Three minutes later, it was three as Okumu beat the students defence to set up Ofula who fired past Morei.

Two more goals followed before the end of the quarter as Orange made good use of their short corners.

Multimedia resorted to defending in the second quarter but they were breached in the 21st minute as Ofula grabbed her second of the match. Ommalla completed her hat-trick in the third quarter and fourth with two goals to cap off a brilliant display.

The students rarely threatened and Ataro made a number of substitutions including replacing first choice keeper Cynthia Onyango with Ruth Njoki in the third quarter.

Okumu finally got a goal to complete her excellent display a minute to full time. Omaido’s brace saw her move top of the scoring charts with 14 goals.

The defeat left the students second from bottom with four points.

“We did not give a fight and just allowed them to walk all over us. We have got to show more determination in the league and this result is disappointing," Multimedia coach Vincent Odhiambo said.

Daily Nation



Hockey lessons from Orange for hapless Multimedia girls

By Elizabeth Mburugu


Orange captain Betsy Ommala with the ball as Daystar University player Nancy Chepchumba(r) tries to block when they played National Women league at City Park. ON 26/09/15 PHOTO: JENIPHER WACHIE

National team player Betsy Ommala netted a hat-trick as champions Telkom Orange hammered Multimedia University 11-0 in a Kenya Hockey Union women’s Premier League match at City Park Stadium yesterday.

Forwards Audrey Omaido, Maureen Okumu and Jane Ofula scored a brace each as Orange claimed their ninth straight win of the season.

Veteran defender Terry Juma and Caroline Guchu were also on target as the league leaders opened a six-point lead over second placed United States International University of Africa’s Spartans.

It was a comfortable result for Orange, who are bidding to win a record 20th league crown. A delighted Orange assistant coach Josephine Ataro was short of words to describe her team’s emphatic result.

“It was a brilliant display, we put up a performance befitting our status as champions,” Ataro said.

The game was done and dusted in 13 minutes as Orange scored five times, ruthlessly carving open the Multimedia defence in impressive fashion. Joint top-scorer Jackline Mwangi was a last minute absentee for Orange, forcing Ataro to pair Omaido with Ofula upfront with Okumu out on the wide.

The trio tormented the students and combined for Orange’s first short corner.

The resulting short corner bore the first goal as Ommalla fired the ball past Multimedia keeper Faith Morei.

In the seventh minute, Orange doubled their lead through another short corner with Juma scoring.

The Standard Online



Anna Flanagan won't give up on an Australian Hockeyroos return without a fight

Caden Helmers


Anna Flanagan is intent on wearing a Hockeyroos uniform again. Photo: Redbull

Canberra hockey star Anna Flanagan has been knocked down that many times in her career that she knows exactly how to get back on her feet.

She doesn't have to look any further than the Olympic rings tattooed on her wrist for the inspiration that drives her to keep striding forward.

Flanagan's hockey career was balanced on a knife's edge after a rollercoaster 12 months that included a drink driving conviction and taking an indefinite break to deal with ongoing health issues.

She was ready to give it all away but now Flanagan has relocated to Sydney and rediscovered her love of the game under the tutelage of Hockeyroos legend Katrina Powell.

While she has "some other options" outside hockey Flanagan is intent on lifting the Hockeyroos back to the top of the world at the Tokyo Olympic Games.

"It's not something I'm willing to give up without a fight," Flanagan said.
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"It's going to be a lot of hard work. I've been knocked down so many times in my career now that I'm in a place where I can handle that.

"It's the ultimate experience, going to the Olympics. I've experienced the highs and lows of the Olympics, two Commonwealth Games and a World Cup. I was picked up really young and I've been lucky to experience a lot already.

"There's so many boxes that I want to tick off in my hockey, so I'm enjoying it. That's the main thing, if I'm enjoying it, it'll take care of itself."

Women's sport is booming around the country and while Flanagan wants to force her way back into the Hockeyroos squad, she is considering all her options.

The 25-year-old has given herself a deadline of October to crack the Hockeyroos squad and if she misses out she will step back and reassess where her future lies.

But Flanagan has set up a life outside hockey through work and says she will be able to cope if things don't go to plan on the field.

"I'll keep my options open in terms of where I go sport-wise," Flanagan said.

"I'm not really ready to give up elite sport and I really want to do well in hockey. I think there are some other options outside of that as well but I'll sit down with my coach and reassess the pathway to Tokyo."

ACT deputy chief minister Yvette Berry was on hand alongside Flanagan and men's hockey gun Glenn Turner to unveil the $2.2 million refurbishments at the National Hockey Centre in Lyneham on Saturday.

Flanagan says the upgrades, which include new office space, function rooms, and a new cafe, make Canberra's hockey centre "the best stadium in Australia".

Now Flanagan is itching for a return to play on the fields where she first made a name for herself and she has left the door open for a return to the Canberra club competition.

"This is the kind of facility they have overseas where hockey is just thriving, and it's really nice to be able to see this happen in Canberra," Flanagan said.

"I haven't played an international here as I was injured in 2009 when they did play. The last time I did play here was probably 2009 in just club hockey.

"It's been a very long time since I've been back to play other than some charity matches, but now I'm in Sydney I'm hoping I can get down for a club game this season."

Flanagan will play for the Canberra Strikers in the Australian Hockey League in October - she can't imagine playing for anyone else - where she will look to launch herself back into national contention.

The Canberra Times



$3.2m Berhampore stadium upgrade good news for hockey in Wellington

SIMON HENDERY


Black Sticks goal keeping legend Kyle Pontifex with age grade Wellington rep Ruby Baker, 13, during the opening of the upgrade. KEVIN STENT/FAIRFAX NZ

Retired veteran Black Sticks goalkeeper Kyle Pontifex is among those singing the praises of a $3.2 million upgrade of the National Hockey Stadium in Berhampore, Wellington.

The stadium's third artificial turf was officially opened by the city's Deputy Mayor, Paul Eagle, on Saturday.

The new pitch has been eagerly awaited by the sport, with strong demand meaning the two original Berhampore turfs are being used at full capacity.


The facility upgrade is expected to hugely boost hockey in Wellington. Kevin Stent

The number of hockey players in the region has grown by 35 per cent over the past seven years to reach 15,000.

"It's fantastic to see the new pitch here and it's a great tribute to how Wellington Hockey has managed to grow the game," Pontifex said after Saturday's opening.


Former Black Sticks Laurie Gallen (left) and Kyle Pontifex battle for the ball in a exhibition match during the opening of the hockey facility upgrade in Wellington. KEVIN STENT/FAIRFAX NZ

"To be competitive as a region you have to have top quality facilities and getting the third turf is the key to that for Wellington."

Pontifex, a Wellingtonian who made 176 test appearances during his international career, said having a third pitch would be good for the sport in general but especially for elite hockey.

"Hopefully we'll see that translate into some more Black Sticks [from Wellington] and hopefully we'll get to host more test matches and tournaments here."

Pontifex's sentiments were shared by Wellington Hockey chief executive Trafford Wilson who described the stadium's expansion as a significant milestone that would make a "huge difference" for both players and spectators.

Wilson agreed the third field would help attract more high-profile hockey games to the region."

As well as the new turf, the upgrade included adding LED floodlights, expanding and improving car parking, adding new player shelters and changing rooms.

The LED lighting was a first for a Wellington sports field and was expected to cut long-term electricity and bulb replacement costs significantly.

The council contributed $2.1m to the project, with an additional $1.1m coming from Wellington Hockey and grants from the Lotteries Commission, New Zealand Community Trust and Lion Foundation.

The council said it had spent a further $2.7m in the past year upgrading eight other sports fields and three pavilions.

Eagles said the upgrades meant Wellingtonians could play sport year-round without disruption due to field closures and with better facilities at pavilions.

Stuff



Brigadier Manzoor Hussain Atif - An icon of Pakistan hockey

(November 4, 1928 -- December 8, 2008)



Brigadier Manzoor Hussain Atif was a former secretary general of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) and an Olympian in the game of field hockey. Atif started his career as a soldier in the Pakistan Army and eventually reached the rank of a Brigadier before he retired from the army. Atif had enjoyed a unique position in the world of hockey in general, and the game in Pakistan in particular. He remained PHF secretary general for 11 years, Asian Hockey Federation secretary general for 16 years and Asian Hockey Federation vice president from 1982 to 2001. Though there are many good reasons for this status, what made him stand taller than most is the fact that he was involved in the winning of all three Olympic gold medals which Pakistan has won so far. A recipient of Tamgha-i-Pakistan, Atif was a member of Pakistan’s first Olympic gold medal winning team at Rome in 1960 and on the next two occasions he managed the victorious teams - at Mexico in 1968 and at Los Angeles in 1984. Atif attended 10 Olympics in his career - four as a player, three as manager and the remaining three in his capacity as an International Hockey Federation (FIH) delegate.

In fact, his participation in the Olympics could have been 12 occasions but unfortunately, he missed two - Munich 1972 and Moscow 1980 due to Pakistan-India war and boycott respectively. Born in Gujrat on Nov 4, 1928, Atif had his early education at the Mission High School in Wazirabad. Horse riding was his main hobby during his schooldays. He passed his Matriculation at the age of 15 and later graduated from Zamindara College, Gujrat. Prior to joining the Army, Atif also studied at the famous Government College in Lahore for sometime. He joined the Army on March 9, 1949, and was commissioned on Feb 2, 1951.

Hockey was in Atif’s blood. Perhaps he was the only icon in the world of international hockey of such a long standing. He not only succeeded the late Col (retired) AIS Dara in the International Hockey Federation (FIH) as vice-president, he was also the founding secretary of the Asian Hockey Federation. He served as chairman of the FIH Rules Board for a long time.

Atif, who used to play on the left fullback position, donned the national colour at the Helsinki Olympics in 1952 where Pakistan had to be content with the 4th position. He then represented the country at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics where Pakistan secured the silver medal. This was followed by Rome Olympics in 1960, when Pakistan won their first ever Olympic gold. The1964 Tokyo Olympics were the last for Atif where he captained the greenshirts who won a silver medal.

After representing the country in four Olympics, Atif called it a day. However, the late General Mohammad Musa, then president of the PHF, made him manager of the Pakistan hockey team. He was then a Major but following his promotion to the rank of Lieutenant Col in 1966, Atif was asked to quit the post. Later, when President Ayub Khan appointed Air Marshal Nur Khan as the PHF chief, Atif was reappointed manager of the hockey team replacing his contemporary Brig Abdul Hameed Hamidi in January 1968, a few months before the Mexico Olympics.

Atif took great pains to mould the team into a winning combination. His efforts bore fruitful results when Pakistan beat Australia 2-1 at the Mexico Olympics to regain the title. He remained out of touch with hockey from 1970 to 1974 following his professional engagements and the war. He was taken as a Prisoner of War in 1971 in Bangladesh, which was formerly known as East Pakistan.

In 1974, during the Zulfikar Ali Bhutto government, Atif was appointed to prepare feasibility report for hosting the 1978 Asian Games at Lahore. Later, Bhutto decided to construct a multipurpose sports complex with Chinese assistance in Islamabad and shifted the proposed games from Lahore to the capital. Atif was sent on deputation as deputy director general in the Ministry of Sports, Islamabad. However, Pakistan’s dream remained unfulfilled as the nation opted out and the games were shifted to Bangkok.

Prior to being elected as secretary of the PHF and the AHF in 1978, Atif managed the Pakistan team at the Montreal Olympics in 1976. Atif was named as first director sports PIA in 1978 and served there until 1984. During his association, he initiated the idea of colt scheme which yielded fruitful results.

The six-year span from 1978 to 1984 also turned out to be golden era for the game under Atif - Nur Khan when Pakistan won the Buenos Aires World Cup, Delhi World Cup, Delhi Asian Games, two Champions Trophies, inaugural junior World Cup, Essenda World Cup and the Los Angeles Olympics. Atif was a man of multi-dimensional personality. His services to the cause of the game globally will be remembered forever. He died early on at the age of 81 in Rawalpindi after a protracted illness.

The Daily Times

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