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News for 09 July 2017

All the news for Sunday 9 July 2017


Germany & USA claim wins on Women’s Day 1 in Johannesburg



Johannesburg, South Africa: Germany and USA both claimed victories on the opening day of the Women’s Hockey World League Semi-Final, making a solid start to their respective pool campaigns in the race to secure World Cup qualification.

The day’s action began in Pool A, where Ireland’s Green Army (FIH Hero World Ranking: 15) produced a high quality display against Japan’s Cherry Blossoms (WR: 11), drawing 1-1 with their higher ranked opponents. The two sides were evenly matched throughout, although it was the Europeans who struck the first blow when Roisin Upton’s penalty corner drag flick rattled the Japanese backboard just before the end of the third quarter. A penalty corner from Shihori Oikawa levelled the scores with nine minutes remaining, ensuring that the points were shared.

“It was an end to end game of hockey and either team could have gone away with all three points,” said Ireland captain Kate Mullan immediately after the game. “From that perspective it would have been nice to take all three points but when you step back and take a look at the rankings it was a good point to get.” 

As with the opening game of the competition, Rio 2016 bronze medallists Germany (WR: 7) also waited until the third quarter in their Pool A match against Poland (WR: 18) before breaking the deadlock, with Elisa Gräve forcing home from close range seconds after Camile Nobis hit the frame of the Poland goal. It proved to be the only goal of a game that, in terms of goal-scoring chances, was dominated by Die Danas but registering only one goal proved to be a point of frustration for Germany’s Franzisca Hauke. 

“Poland defended really well, it was hard for us”, said Hauke post-match. “‘I’m happy we won, but it wasn’t our best match. We had a lot of chances so we should have scored more goals, but they also had chances so it was a lucky win, I think. We have a lot to improve, but hopefully on Monday we will produce a better performance against Ireland.”

In Pool B, Pan-American rivals USA (WR: 6) and Chile (WR: 20) played out an absorbing contest in which the Americans emerged narrow winners with a 1-0 score-line. Jill Witmer celebrated her 100th senior international appearance with the only goal of the game, although Chile gave a superb showing of themselves and look more than capable of challenging all of their opponents in this pool. “Chile have hugely improved, they were a real threat today”, said USA’s Michelle Vittese after the contest. “I’m pleased to get through it and start the competition with a victory.”

Host nation South Africa (WR: 13) and India (WR: 12) were in action in the final match of the day, with a large contingent of home fans enjoying an entertaining contest despite the scores finishing locked together at 0-0. South Africa arguably had the better of the chances even had a goal ruled out by the video umpire, but India’s Eves were excellent in defence and deserved their share of the spoils. Although she could not celebrate a win, the experience of the contest left an impression Shelley Jones (formerly Russell). “It was absolutely fantastic to play in front of the home crowd tonight. There was huge roar every time we went forward, which was fantastic. It is a good point for us but we want to get as many as we can in the pool phase.”

The action continues on Sunday (9th July) with the start of the men’s competition. In Pool A, New Zealand’s Black Sticks get their competition up and running when they take on Round 2 qualifiers France at 1200 South African Standard Time (UTC +2) before Spain and Japan take to the field at 1400. The Pool B matches begin at 1600 when Rio 2016 Olympic silver medallists Belgium take on Egypt before host nation South Africa play Ireland’s Green Machine at 1800.

FIH site



USWNT Opens FIH Hockey World League Semifinals Play with Win

Witmer Earns 100th International Cap



Images courtesy of Getty Images and World Sports Pics

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – On a chilly afternoon at the Johannesburg’s University of Witwatersrand, known locally as Wits, the U.S. Women’s National Team took on FIH Hero World Ranked No. 20 Chile in their first pool match of the FIH Hockey World League Semifinals. USA struggled to find their rhythm early in the match but a high press shift and smart defense fell in favor of USA as they earned a 1-0 win.

“Sometimes waiting for the first game to begin you kind of come out flat,” said Janneke Schopman, USWNT’s Head Coach. “They played with high pressure and we played right into what they wanted. It was a shift in momentum in the first two quarters but I think the second half we played more like us, exposed their weaknesses and were able to get some good opportunities.”

Off the starting whistle, Chile used their fast pace and quick possession passes to threaten USA’s circle. A series of penalty corners were awarded to Chile but USA’s defensive unit led by goalkeeper Jackie Briggs (Robesonia, Pa.) kept the score at zeros.

Struggling to work the ball forward, USA applied a half-field press to help close midfield channels. The strategy proved to be successful as USA intercepted the play to earn their first penalty corner in the 14th minute. After the initial shot hit a Chile foot, two consecutive re-awards came in the final seconds of the first quarter but no results would come.

USA started the second quarter looking to translate the same momentum as the first, quick and with speed. Possession switched hands for a period but a glimpse came for USA in the 23rd minute when Jill Witmer (Lancaster, Pa.) found space and got a backhand shot off but Chile’s goalkeeper Claudia Schuler made the glove save. Control maintained with USA as they continued to show aggressive attacking chances. Chile earned a penalty corner with one minute remaining in the quarter but could not convert and the halftime score stood at USA 0, Chile 0.

One minute into the third quarter, Chile grabbed a penalty corner. The insert was skewed allowing USA to grab the ball and work possession down field. A close chance came in the 33rd minute when Melissa Gonzalez (Mohegan Lake, N.Y.) drove the right baseline and dumped it across and back to an awaiting Witmer. Witmer’s shot was saved and the rebound fell to Michelle Vittese (Cherry Hill, N.J.) but nothing translated. Just two minutes later off a similar build up, this time Vittese showed exceptional individual skills breaking into the circle from the right and centered a pass to Witmer who calmly capitalized at close range with a one-time ball into the net to give USA a 1-0 lead.

USA continued to apply high pressure on Chile as they patiently swung the ball from sideline to sideline. A few more circle penetrations came for USA as the third quarter came to close.

The final 15 minutes saw no let up from USA as the same pressure and ambitious mentality was present. Being patient, USA’s defense consisting of Katelyn Ginolfi (Lewes, Del.), Ashley Hoffman (Mohnton, Pa.), Caitlin Van Sickle (Wilmington, Del.) and Julia Young (Yorktown, Va.) swung the ball in the back waiting for the precise chance to threaten forward. Young earned a 5-minute yellow card for an aggressive foul in the 49th minute. A player down USA played smart, maintaining possession as they looked to close out the game.

With four-minutes remaining, Kathleen Sharkey (Moosic, Pa.) was threaded the ball forward and found herself in the middle of the circle in a 1v2 situation with one of Chile’s defender and goalkeeper and she ultimately earned USA’s fifth penalty corner. Searching for the equalizer, Chile pushed until the very end earning a penalty corner in the 58th minute but USA’s defense held strong and the final score would stand at USA 1, Chile 0.

“All in all, it is good to have a win,” added Schopman. “I know we can play a lot better and I know we can grow for the second game.”

A top four finish in the women’s competition will guarantee Team USA a place in the FIH Hockey World League Finals in Auckland, New Zealand at the end of the year. A top five placement at this event will ensure a place at next summer’s women’s Hockey World Cup in London, England.

A career milestone was reached in today’s match as lone goal scorer Witmer secured her 100th international cap with Team USA. An integral part of USA’s offensive line, Rio Olympian Witmer has been on the USWNT since 2013 and has achieved a handful of international experience at various test series and events such as the Pan American Games, Rabobank Hockey World Cup, Champions Challenge, Champions Trophy and FIH Hockey World League tournaments.



The U.S. Women’s National Team will face India on Monday, July 10, 2017 at 12 p.m. EST in their second pool play match.

USFHA media release



Green Army Draw With Japan In World League Opener


Hockey World League Semi Finals Johannesburg

The Green Army were forced to share the spoils with Japan in their opening fixture of the World League Semi Finals in Johannesburg, leaving the teams with 1 point apiece in Pool A.

Ireland started the brighter of the two, quickly recognising that Japan were only playing with 3 at the back, intercepting plenty of loose passes and pressing aggressively. The pace of the Irish press seemed to catch the Japanese off guard as both Anna O’Flanagan and Nikki Evans found themselves bearing down on goal early on. However, the first real chance of the game came to Mami Karino who took advantage of an error in the Irish backline but the advancing Ayeisha McFerran did enough to send the shot wide. Mazing runs from both Gillian Pinder and Nicci Daly had Ireland looking the slightly stronger side but the final touch was eluding the girls in green. There was nothing to separate the sides at half time, with possession never teetering past 50/50 and neither side earning a penalty corner. 


Credit: Getty Images

O’Flanagan was again causing the Japanese some trouble and linking up nicely with captain Katie Mullan in the circle, forcing the first save from Megumi Kageyama. The Green Army were relentless in their waves of attack down the right side with Pinder and Deirdre Duke leading the way. The first PC of the game finally came in the 43rd minute with Zoe Wilson’s sweep drawing a save onto the defender’s foot, earning a second PC. Ireland made no mistake the second time of asking and Roisin Upton fired one of her signature drag flicks past the keepers left to give her side the 1-0 lead. Japan began to push a little harder, in search of the equaliser, and with Lizzie Colvin off for a 2-minute green card they won their first PC in the 50th minute. Shihori Oikawa sent the ball low past the diving McFerran to bring the game level. The end to end action continued with the final chance of the tie falling to Mullan, who’s reverse shot was deflected just wide by the retreating defence.

A fair result for an incredibly tight game with 50/50 possession, 73 turnovers each and over 500 completed passes each. Speaking after the match, head coach Graham Shaw said “We’re a little disappointed to concede but it’s the first game of the tournament so we’re happy to get points on the board. It got a little frantic at times and we need to show a bit more composure and we’ll get more outcomes, we’ll work on that throughout the rest of the tournament”.

The Green Army are next in action on Monday (July 10th) against Olympic bronze medallists Germany at 1pm (Irish time), with the fixture to be shown live on BT Sport.

Ireland men’s hockey team get their World League campaign underway tomorrow evening (5pm Irish time) against South Africa, shown live on BT Sport.

Ireland 1(Upton)
Japan 1(Oikawa)

Ireland: A McFerran, N Evans, K Mullan (Captain), S McCay, E Tice, G Pinder, R Upton, N Daly, H Matthews, A O’Flanagan, Z Wilson

Subs: G O’Flanagan, C Watkins, Y O’Byrne, E Beatty, S Loughran, L Colvin, D Duke

Japan: M Kageyama, Y Asai, E Nishikori, S Oikawa, N Naito, H Yuda (Captain), K Nomura, H Nagai, A Kato, M Segawa, M Kawamura

Subs: M Ichitani, N Ichitani, Y Mano, M Shimizu, Y Nagai, M Karino, A Tanka

Irish Hockey Association media release



Ireland and Japan inseparable in HWL Semi-Final opener


Ireland in the pre-match line-up before their game against Japan. Pic: FIH

“Not the worst result” was Graham Shaw’s assessment of Ireland’s opening draw at the Hockey World League Semi-Final in Johannesburg as the split the difference with Japan, ranked four places higher on the world list.

Indeed, by almost all stats, the two sides were a perfect match with identical possession, turnovers and unforced error figures.

Roisin Upton’s drag-flick in the 44th minute was cancelled out by a carbon-copy seven minutes later from Shihori Oikawa for Japan. Beyond that, there was precious little to swing the tie either way.

Reflecting on the tie, Shaw admitted as much: “When you have taken the lead, you are a little disappointed to concede with ten minutes to go but it’s the first game of the tournament and we are happy to get points on the board. It’s a long, long tournament and it’s not the worst start in the world.”

Japan had the better of the early exchanges with Akiko Kato firing wide from a tentative defensive error while Hannah Matthews had to excellently fish out a looping cross to avert danger.

Anna O’Flanagan and Nikki Evans had pot shots dealt with by the Japanese defence while Gillian Pinder’s loping run almost laid on a great chance foe captain Katie Mullan but the cross just eluded her stick.

Japan were, in the main, having the better of proceedings up to half-time before Shaw switched a few things around at the break which yielded some instant dividends.

O’Flanagan twice drew smothered stops from Megumi Kageyama before Ireland went in front when Matthews’ innocuous cross hit a foot. Zoe Wilson’s first up corner hit yielded a second set-piece which Upton whipped low down the glove-side for 1-0.

The lead was short-lived, however. Lizzie Colvin was sin-binned for a tackle in midfield and in her absence, Japan won their only penalty corner which Oikawa planted down Ayeisha McFerran’s right hand side.

Ireland could have won it in the closing minute with Mullan firing a powerful shot at Kageyama on the final whistle. For Shaw, he felt greater composure in the final third will pay dividends for his side in their next matches, starting with their tie against Germany on Monday.

“We were a little bit tentative and going backwards at times today. We need to be going forward and so decided to go a little bit more direct [in the second half] to put more pressure on their defensive line.

“We did that but got a little bit frantic at times and if we are a bit more composed, we will get more outcomes in the rest of the tournament.”

Chloe Watkins missed the tie due to an ankle injury which is currently being assessed but it is hoped she can return in the next game or two.

Hockey World League Semi-Final
Ireland 1 (R Upton)
Japan 1 (S Oikawa)

Ireland: A McFerran, N Evans, K Mullan, S McCay, L Tice, G Pinder, R Upton, N Daly, H Matthews, A O’Flanagan, Z Wilson
Subs: Y O’Byrne, E Beatty, S Loughran, L Colvin, D Duke, G O’Flanagan

Japan: M Kageyama, Y Asai, E Nishikori, S Oikawa, N Naito, H Yuda, K Nomura, H Nagai, A Kato, M Segawa, M Kawamura
Subs: M Ichitami, N Ichitami, Y Mano, M Shimizu, Y Nagai, M Karino, A Tanaka
Umpires: M Ariffin (SIN), M Joubert (RSA)

The Hook



Third time’s a charm as Upton finally gets extended opportunity to shine for Green Army


Roisin Upton in EYHL action against UCD for Cork Harlequins. Pic: Adrian Boehm

Roisin Upton is hoping to continue making up for lost time with the Irish women’s team as they look to land a 2018 World Cup spot over the course of the next two weeks.

The Limerick woman has taken something of a long road but, since December, has quickly become one of Graham Shaw’s key players. Indeed, it’s third time lucky after two false starts.

Her first call-up came in 2015 but a hip problem ruled her out of the summer’s action. A second call came in January 2016 for a trip to Spain but a scan for what she thought was an innocuous knock revealed a stress fracture, a protective boot and, eventually, double hip surgery.

Shaw, though, was persistent and wanted to get Upton involved having seen what she could do with the UConn Huskies, winning a pair of NCAA titles and being named an All-American twice.

Upton eventually made her international debut in December just a couple of days after playing her first match in 12 months, a club tie for Cork Harlequins that would make her eligible to play the second half of the season in Ireland.

She was still based in the US at the time, working to complete some final courses to complete her degree but was not allowed to line out for the Huskies during this period.

“Trying to recover from the extended downtime was a challenge. I wasn’t getting any meaningful game time in the states; I was trying to get my fitness back and I didn’t know how my hips would react to it all.

“What really took my by surprise was how mentally challenging this time was. It’s only a matter of putting in hours and pushing through the pain barriers to get your fitness back but it was the nagging questions; would I be the same player I was?

“Would I recover in time to get myself into the mix for the 2017 Irish programme? Where would I fit in with Quins, my new club?”

Shaw, though, saw the opportunity and threw her in at the deep end. He saw enough in the three-game series against Scotland to put her in for the World League Round 2 tournament in January in Malaysia.

She admits it was a surprise to be elevated so quickly this tie around.

“Graham showed a huge amount of understanding and patience. He put the target in front of me for Malaysia; I knew it was up to me to get as fit as possible to give myself the best chance.

“My training programme had me taking a gradual approach with the view to resuming my hockey in January with Quins. You can imagine my surprise when Graham touched base with me and asked me to go to Scotland.”

Now, she looks the heir apparent for Frazer’s libero role. Her close skills and eye for goal – demonstrated in a brilliant finish against China in June – are combined with sweeping passes. When deployed in defence, she picks off crucial tackles in a clinch.

“If there’s a green jersey at stake I’ll play anywhere I’m asked to! Traditionally I play a holding midfield role and look to break forward.

“With Cliodhna [Sargent] unavailable, Graham has found a role for me in central defence so I’m more than happy to develop my game in that position.”

It’s a big difference from the American system in which she spent four years which, in turn, is a world away from her school days.

“International hockey is a huge step up from club and college hockey. It is much quicker, and more skilful. During my time at Uconn, we did hours and hours of video analysis and that has helped me transition over to the international game as it gave me a broad understanding of many facets of the game.

“The NCAA attracts international students that would have played underage for their countries; Dutch, English, Argentinians, Germans etc. which has made the league very competitive. Every game you play, you’re playing against international students including the best of what the US had to offer.

“The US approach to sport was a huge surprise to me initially. I loved the intensity of the season playing 20-24 competitive games over three months while training together for 20hours per week.

“The Irish by contrast doesn’t have the budget the American system has to cater for this, but it has the players and coaching. I know Irish hockey would push on and punch way above our weight as we do across a broad range of sports if we had similar financial support.

“The professional approach to balancing hockey and academics instilled a huge sense of discipline. Having to perform at a high level both on the field and academically was a new challenge. There are no allowances made so time management was important just as it is now balancing international hockey, club hockey, work and college commitments.”

Now to South Africa and the chance of ending Ireland’s wait for a return to a World Cup, a first since 2002.

“We are also under no illusion as to what is facing us in South Africa but we are going down there focused and with real intent,” Upton says before looking at the group opponents.

We all know how the Germans grow in tournaments, the English team is practically the same squad that won gold last year in Rio; the Japanese have beaten top five opposition this year, and Poland will see us as a huge opportunity.

“But this is the bones of a team that missed out on Rio by the width of a post. It’s all to play for at this stage. If we bring our A game we’ll give a good account of ourselves.

“It’s a dream come true [to be part of it]. It doesn’t get much better than this. Hopefully, it leads to a World Cup and springboards us into an Olympic Games. This is what it’s all about.”

The Hook



SA hockey women kept out by India

OCKERT DE VILLIERS


Stephanie Baxter had a goal disallowed for South Africa on Saturday. Photo: Ryan Wilkisky, BackpagePix

JOHANNESBURG – Despite a dominant performance, the South African women’s hockey team walked away with a 0-0 draw in their opening match against India at the Hockey World League Semi-Finals on Saturday.

The Proteas were on top of the proceedings for the much of the first three quarters at the Wits Hockey Club, making the most shots at target while enjoying the better of the possession and field position.

For all intents and purposes, South Africa let the match slip out of their hands as they allowed India into the match in the final quarter.

The home team had a golden opportunity to clinch the victory in the third quarter when they managed to get the ball into the back of the box. The goal was disallowed after it was adjudged the ball hit Bernie Coston on the knee on the way to the goal box.

South Africa will be kicking themselves for not finishing their chances as they took eight shots at goal, with four heading for the net. India made three shots at goal, with only two getting close to the target.

The Proteas enjoyed 58 percent of the possession, but battled to land the knockout blow against their sub-continental opponents.

South Africa are aiming to finish among the top four teams at the end of the tournament, which would not only guarantee the team a spot at the World Cup, but also at the 2017 Hockey World League Finals.

Coston proved to be among the top performers as she had the Indians under the cosh in the circle.

South Africa had an early setback when Quanita Bobbs was sent off with a green card in the 18th minute to cop a two-minute suspension.


Quanita Bobbs received a green card in Saturday's match against India. Photo: Ryan Wilkisky, BackpagePix

Indian keeper Savita Punia kept things together for the tourists as she held the South African attack at bay.

SA launched 18 circle penetrations, but would be disappointed to not have anything to show for it.

Tarryn Glasby and Sulette Damons had creditable shots at goal, but were left unsatisfied going into the halftime break.

In the third quarter, Stephanie Baxter’s goal was referred and denied due to the ball hitting Coston.

India made a strong challenge in the dying moments of the match, with the home side holding on for a draw that they would have felt should have been a victory in the bag.

Independent Online



Indian women hold South Africa

India made a strong start with a structured game, a better ball possession in the first 15 minutes.


Brilliant goalkeeping by Savita saw India hold hosts South Africa 0-0 in their first match of the Women’s Hockey World League Semi Final in Johannesburg. 

Brilliant goalkeeping by Savita saw India hold hosts South Africa 0-0 in their first match of the Women’s Hockey World League Semi Final in Johannesburg.

India made a strong start with a structured game, a better ball possession in the first 15 minutes.

There were also some crucial circle penetrations made in the first quarter that fetched them a PC in the 12th minute of the match.

However, a fiercely struck flick by India’s dragflicker Gurjit Kaur was well-defended by South Africa’s first runner to deny India an early lead.

With the second quarter starting with the score reading 0-0, South Africa bounced back into the game with an improvised attack. They made two brilliant attempts on goal.

First it was Tarryn Glasby who beat Indian defenders in the circle to take a shot on goal, but an alert Savita was brilliant in her efforts to keep South Africa from scoring.

Sulette Damons’ shot on goal was perhaps the best chance South Africa had to score but her powerfully struck shot was slightly off the mark even as Savita made a diving effort to defend. Both teams went into halftime in a stalemate.

There was plenty of action in the third quarter with hosts South Africa, backed by a roaring home crowd, and the support paid off when the home team scored through a field goal by Stephanie Baxter.

However, a clever call for video referral by India denied South Africa the goal as it came off the back of the stick.

India continued to keep the pressure on the hosts with a strong defence to keep them from making successful forays into the striking circle.

The final quarter witnessed both teams build up frantic pace, as both India and South Africa pushed for a goal. India won their second PC in the 47th minute but striker Rani’s attempt at scoring a PC was denied by South Africa’s first runner who deflected the ball rather perfectly.

The following minutes saw South African forwards keep India’s Savita busy at the post as they made tactical variations to take shot on goal. But Savita was exceptional to deny them a goal.

South Africa made eight unsuccessful attempts on goal with 34 circle penetrations while India had 15 circle penetrations and three shots on goal. Though South Africa won their only PC of the game in the dying minutes, Tarryn Glasby was kept from converting the goal. India did well to hold hosts to a 0—0 draw and share the points.

India will take on USA on Monday.

The Hindu



Indian eves play draw with South Africa in HWL semis

JOHANNESBURG: Brilliant goal-keeping by Savita saw India hold hosts South Africa 0-0 in their first match at the Women's Hockey World League Semi Final here on Saturday.

India made a strong start with a structured game, a better ball possession in the first 15 minutes. There were also some crucial circle penetrations made in the first quarter that fetched them a penalty corner in the 12th minute of the match. However, a fiercely struck flick by India's dragflicker Gurjit Kaur was well-defended by South Africa's first runner to deny India an early lead.

With the second quarter starting with the score reading 0-0, South Africa bounced back into the game with an improvised attack. They made two brilliant attempts on the goal. First it was Tarryn Glasby who beat Indian defenders in the circle to take a shot on goal, but an alert Savita was brilliant in her efforts to keep South Africa from scoring.

Sulette Damons' shot on the goal was perhaps the best chance South Africa had to score but her powerfully struck shot was slightly off the mark even as Savita made a diving effort to defend. Both teams went into halftime in stalemate.

There was plenty of action in the third quarter with South Africa being backed by a roaring home crowd, and the support paid off when the home team scored through a field goal by Stephanie Baxter.

However, a clever call for video referral by India denied South Africa the goal as it came off the back of the stick.

India continued to keep the pressure on the hosts with a strong defence to keep them from making successful forays into the striking circle.

The final quarter witnessed both teams build up frantic pace, as both India and South Africa pushed for a goal.

India won their second penalty corner in the 47th minute but striker Rani's attempt at scoring a penalty corner was denied by South Africa's first runner who deflected the ball rather perfectly.

The following minutes saw South African forwards keep Savita busy at the post as they made tactical variations to take shot on goal. But she was exceptional in denying them a goal.

South Africa made eight unsuccessful attempts on goal with 34 circle penetrations while India had 15 circle penetrations and three shots on goal.

Though South Africa won their only penalty corner of the game in the dying minutes, Glasby was kept from converting the goal.

India, who share the points with the hosts after the 0-0 draw, will now face US on July 10.

The Times of India



Crucial fortnight on home turf for SA hockey teams

OCKERT DE VILLIERS


Jonas Gomoll of Germany evades challenge from Jethro Eustice of South Africa during the 2017 Cape Town Summer Series II Mens Hockey match between South Africa and Germany at Hartleyvale Stadium in Cape Town. Picture: Chris Ricco/BackpagePix

JOHANNESBURG - Looking to book their places in the 2018 World Cup, the South African men’s and women’s hockey teams will be hoping home-field advantage will further their cause at the World League Semi-Finals starting today.

The two-week showcase involving 20 of the world’s top teams at the Wits Hockey Club will also be an opportunity for redemption after missing last year’s Rio Olympic Games.

Finishing among the top four teams at the end of the tournament would not only guarantee the South African teams spots at the World Cup but also at the 2017 Hockey World League Finals.

The Proteas women will launch their campaign against India, ranked one spot ahead of them, while the men’s team open their account against Ireland six places above them.

Women’s captain and TuksSport/HPC athlete Nicolene Terblanche said they had set their sights on finishing the competition among the top teams.

“We would like to finish in the top four to earn our place in the World Cup and the World League Finals,” she declared.

“It is a tough tournament but we are positive about our chances and we believe we can do it.”

They face a mammoth task sharing Pool B with reigning Hockey Champions Trophy champions Argentina, the United States, India and Chile.

Terblanche believes the team are well prepared for the tournament after taking some confidence from their warm-up matches.

“We played three warm-up matches against England and Japan and there are a lot of positives we can take out of those games.

“We feel prepared, and ready with a few international games behind us.”

Pool A will see England, who will contain many of the Rio 2016 Olympic gold medallists that represented Great Britain, Rio bronze medallists Germany, Japan, Ireland and Poland.

“We expect the United States and Argentina to be our toughest opposition in our pool,” Terblanche said.

“We have to do well in this tournament and while we didn’t go to the Olympics we've put that behind us.

“We are looking ahead with this tournament and it is important for SA hockey’s future.”

Pool A of the men’s tournament includes reigning World Cup champions Australia, New Zealand, Spain, Japan and France while South Africa are in Pool B where they will face Rio 2016 silver medalists Belgium, Olympic bronze medalists Germany, Ireland and Egypt.

Teams will also be awarded FIH Hero World Ranking points, which could prove crucial in relation to qualification for future events.

Independent Online



Hockey India pulls out of the Pro League

by Mihir Vasavda


The decision can have an impact on the Olympic qualifying hopes of the men’s and women’s teams as the Pro League is one of FIH’s main qualifying tournaments. (Source: FIH)

DAYS AFTER alleging match-fixing at the World League semifinals in London, Hockey India has pulled out of one of International Hockey Federation’s (FIH’s) flagship tournaments, the Pro League. The decision was communicated to the FIH on Friday and the world body has begun its search for a replacement, it is learnt. The decision can have an impact on the Olympic qualifying hopes of the men’s and women’s teams as the Pro League is one of FIH’s main qualifying tournaments.

The Pro League is the newest competition on the FIH calendar and is due to launch in January 2019. The top nine men’s and women’s international teams will play each other on a home-and-away basis every weekend for six months from January to June. The top four teams at the end of the league will be awarded Tokyo Olympics berth.

Soon after the launch, FIH CEO Jason McCracken had said Hockey India was a ‘strong supporter’ of the tournament. However, India will not be a part of the event unless FIH convinces them otherwise. According to sources, India has cited the inferior ranking of the women’s team as the reason to withdraw.

“There will be 12 teams at the Olympics. Top four from the Pro League will qualify directly for the Tokyo Games. Six other teams from the World League will also make the cut while the remaining two spots will go to the next highest-ranked teams,” the source said. “Since India is ranked 13th in the world, the chances of them qualifying for the Olympics via the Pro League were relatively less.”

The official added Hockey India believed there are better chances of them qualifying via the World League and hence felt Pro League wasn’t worth it. “The ranking points system was finalised only after the teams were registered. It wasn’t beneficial to the women’s team. That is the reason Hockey India decided to pull out after confirming earlier,” the source said.

The official added that Hockey India did not have the option to withdraw just one team and hence, was forced to pull out the men’s team as well. “If Hockey India would have withdrawn the teams after July 17, then we would have been slapped with a two-year international ban,” the source said. Massive repercussions

The decision could have massive repercussions on the national team. The Pro League will see the world’s best teams play each other for six months every year. Pulling out of it means India will struggle to get competitive matches for half-a-year and will have to make do with lesser sides. The timing of Hockey India’s decision is also curious. Last week, Hockey India had written to the FIH, raising concerns of match-fixing attempts during recently held Hockey World League semi final in London.

They also accused FIH and England Hockey federation of not taking proper steps to protect players from visiting countries after former India captain Sardar Singh was called for questioning by the police in connection with a year-old sexual assault case. A Hockey India official, however, said the decision to pull out of Pro League was not related to complaint made to FIH.

Indian Express



FIH statement on the withdrawal of Hockey India from the Hockey Pro League

The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has received confirmation from Hockey India that they have withdrawn from the Hockey Pro League. Whilst we regret Hockey India’s decision not to be involved in this exciting new global League, we have replacement teams available following an application process which was oversubscribed.

Our Event Portfolio Implementation Panel will convene a meeting to discuss the practical implications of a team withdrawal including formally inviting replacement teams to participate in the men’s and women’s League. The first Hockey Pro League Workshop with all participating nations invited is being held in Lausanne, Switzerland later this month.

FIH site



FIH 'regrets' India's decision to pull out of Pro League

LAUSANNE: The International Hockey Federation has confirmed India's withdrawal from its ambitious Pro League, one of FIH's flagship tournaments offering Olympic qualifying berths to the top four teams in both men's and women's events.

The FIH said it has "received confirmation from Hockey India" that the country has pulled out of the tournament that is due to launch in January 2019 with matches between the world's best sides being conducted over the weekends for six months every year.

"Whilst we regret Hockey India's decision not to be involved in this exciting new global League, we have replacement teams available following an application process which was oversubscribed," the FIH, headed by former Hockey India boss Narinder Batra, said in a statement.

HI's decision can have an impact on the Olympic qualifying hopes of the men's and women's teams as the Pro League is one of FIH's main qualifying tournaments for the Tokyo Games.

The top nine men's and women's international teams will play each other on a home-and-away basis every weekend for six months from January to June. The top four teams at the end of the league will be awarded Olympics berth.

As per media reports, India has cited the inferior ranking of the women's team as the reason to withdraw and since there was no option to pull out just one team, India was left with no option but to withdraw from the men's event as well.

HI believes India have better chances of qualifying for the Olympics via the Hockey World League.

It is also being speculated in certain circles that the pull out was to do with India captain Sardar Singh being called for questioning by the police in connection with a year-old sexual assault case, during the Hockey World League Semi-Final in London.

It may also be noted that last week Hockey India had written to the FIH, raising concerns of match-fixing attempts during the recently held tournament in London.

Meanwhile, on the Pro League, the FIH further said, "Our Event Portfolio Implementation Panel will convene a meeting to discuss the practical implications of a team withdrawal including formally inviting replacement teams to participate in the men's and women's League.

"The first Hockey Pro League workshop with all participating nations invited is being held in Lausanne, Switzerland later this month."

The Times of India



Asia Cup hockey tournament postponed to October

by S. Ramaguru

KUALA LUMPUR: The Asia Cup hockey tournament has been rescheduled and will now be held in Dhaka from Oct 11-22.

The tournament, which was slated in September, will see eight teams in the fray with the winner earning their ticket for the 2018 World Cup in India.

The participating teams are hosts Bangladesh, Malaysia, India, Pakistan, Japan, China, South Korea and Oman.

Of the eight teams, India and Malaysia have confirmed their berths in the World Cup.

Pakistan and China have a chance to secure a spot after finishing seventh and eighth at the recent World Hockey League (WHL) Semi Final in London.

Former Asian champions South Korea face the prospect of missing the World Cup as they ended up ninth in London. They need to win the Dhaka tournament to make sure of their berth.

Japan will play in the second WHL Semi Final which starts tomorrow in Johannesburg. They too must emerge champions in Dhaka if they fail in Johannesburg.

For Malaysia, the pressure is off but the Asia Cup is still important as they have never won the tournament.

National coach Stephen van Huizen said his players are currently taking a break and will resume training next week in preparation for the SEA Games and Asia Cup.

“We need to see which area to focus on as we prepare for the two assignments.

“The SEA Games comes first while the Asia Cup was and will still be a priority.

“As we have made it to the World Cup, there are a few things we can try out at the Asia Cup,” he added.

The Star of Malaysia



Atletic add four players to panel for next season


© Frank Uijlenbroek

Atlètic Terrassa have announced their panel for the 2017/18 season as they look to build on their excellent season when they won the Spanish Honor Division.

They have made four key additions with defender Oriol Peremiquel, 29, returning to the team after four years in Belgium, spending two years with Antwerp and two years with KHC Dragons where he won EHL bronze and two Belgian championships.

Also joining the ranks of the first team defense Jan Julia, 19, and striker Luis Fernandez, 21, from Deportivo del Vallès, recent champions of the B Honor Division. Fernandez was previously in the Atlètic squad that came fourth in the EHL two seasons ago.

Arnau de Bruijn is the fourth addition to the panel, the 19-year-old moves from SPV Complutense in Madrid where he had a good season, netting eight goals.

The side features Spanish internationals Marc Calzada, Ignasi Torras, Marc and Joan Tarrés Bolt in addition to Marc Salles. Roc Oliva is still around despite retiring from the national team but Jordi Carrera has retired fully.

Albert Beltran moves to Rotterdam while Oriol Malgosa and Oriol Bach step down from the panel.

Euro Hockey League media release



Scotland U18 Girls battle hard but victory for Ireland in second test match



Scotland U18 Girls’ lost 3-1 to Ireland in the second of three games in the sunshine at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre. A late surge by Scotland in search of an equaliser was punished in the final seconds to give Ireland the two-goal cushion for the victory.

The game started at a similar pace to the previous game, with both teams enjoying possession in the opening minutes.

The Scots then broke through the Irish defence and took the lead through Olivia McMahon. It was a well-deserved goal for the bright start the Scots had made in the match. The lead wouldn’t last long as the Irish struck back several minutes later with a well-worked penalty corner.

Just when the game started to even out again, Ireland scored a second goal from open play to take the lead. A turnover from the Scots in their own half allowed the Irish into the Scottish D, with a good reverse stick shot eventually beating the keeper. The opening quarter ended with Ireland with their noses in front.



The second quarter started very much the same as the first. Both teams had good spells of possession without really threatening in front of goal. The score remained 2-1 at half time.

The third quarter started and it was the Scots who pressed the Irish. The good work nearly paid off when they found themselves close to finding an equaliser, but were unable to find a way past the Irish keeper. Ireland also had some chances, but were denied by some good defensive work and several excellent saves from Amber Murray in the Scottish goal.

The final quarter started and both teams seemed determined to score another. The Irish had a one or two chances, but again they were unable to pass the Scottish keeper.

The Scots then won a penalty corner but could not convert. With just over 20 seconds on the clock, the Scots won a penalty corner with a chance to equalise. They couldn’t convert it and it was the Irish who, with a quick counter attack, scored into an open goal just before the hooter to make it 3-1.

Photos by Mark Pugh

Scottish Hockey Union media release



Scotland U16 Girls win first of three games against Ireland



Scotland U16 Girls won their first game of a three-match series against Ireland with a 2-1 victory at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre.

The team stepped out onto the pitch to start the final test series of the season with confidence, and looked good from the push back. The first quarter was a fast paced, physical game with both sides evenly matched. Then with 29 seconds to go the Scottish concentration slipped and Ireland took advantage to go into the break 1-0 up.

The goal struck a nerve and the team came out determined to even the score in the second quarter and their pressure led to a short corner after five minutes. A straight strike by Ellie Stott was well saved by the Irish keeper however a subsequent foul led to another corner. A second straight strike attempt needed an exceptional save from the Irish keeper and the score stayed 1-0 Ireland.



With just over a minute of the quarter left the Irish won a corner after a fast passage of play, however the Scottish defence was out quickly they were unable to get a shot away taking the game to half time with the score unchanged.

Three minutes into the second half and Scotland were awarded a free hit. Captain Ruth Blaike did some great work and got the ball over to Lucy Williamson who stayed composed and placed the ball into the top left hand corner of the goal to equalise.

45 seconds into the final quarter and the play was all Scotland leading to another penalty corner. The shot was well read by Ireland's defence this time.

A further evenly matched period of play ensued and then after five minutes of the quarter Scotland were awarded a free hit just at the 23, which was quickly taken and Ellie Mackenzie was perfectly positioned to slot the ball into the goal.

Ireland remained extremely strong and the Scots were pressurised into giving away a corner with only eight seconds left on the clock. Ireland were unable to capitalise and it was with relief that the Scots welcomed the final hooter.

Photos by Duncan Gray and Mark Pugh

Scottish Hockey Union media release



Nail-biting draw in Scotland U16 Girls’ second outing against Ireland



Scotland U16 Girls drew with Ireland at a sun kissed Glasgow National Hockey Centre in the second match of a three-game series. The 0-0 draw came following yesterday’s hard fought victory and it was a close contest with some great hockey.

The scene was set for the next nail biting match of the series. With the sun out and the temperature high, it even resulted in the Scotland team’s Manager wearing shorts for the first time in her career. The first quarter continued where yesterday left off with both teams playing a fast and physical game. Good composure from the Scottish youngsters saw the team absorb the early Irish attacks, and this allowed the Scots to make a couple of good breaks towards the Irish goal but the quarter ended 0-0.

The Scots had most of the possession in the second quarter with strong play from every member of the team. A good long ball by Amy Salmon travelled far down the side-line and following a defensive error Scotland had the long corner. The Scots however couldn't quite get the final push towards goal.

Some great play from Ellie Stott and Lucy Smith gave Scotland their closest opportunity to score but the ball zipped just wide of the target. Up the other end of the pitch and the Irish couldn't find a way past a solid combination of Bronwyn Shields and Katie Swanson and the half ended 0-0.



The Irish came out stronger in the second half and after five minutes their pressure resulted in a penalty corner. The resulting drag flick was saved well by Jess Smith. This quarter was well defended by Scotland and the contest went into the final quarter with the score still at 0-0.

The fourth quarter saw the Irish again come out the more attacking team with Smith again being called into action several times before clearing the line. Scotland quickly counterattacked and Georgia Jones won a penalty corner but the Scots were unable to get a shot on goal.

The game ended in a nail-biting final few minutes with attacking play at both ends, however neither side could gain the upper hand and the game finished a draw.

The final match takes place tomorrow at 10am when the Scotland girls will be determined to ensure they win this final tournament of the season.

Photos by Duncan Gray and Mark Pugh

Scottish Hockey Union media release



Athlete to coach


Hannah Macleod

As part of #coachingschanged week we caught up with Rio Gold medalist Hannah McLeod and her coaching journey.

Elite athletes hold a wealth of knowledge with regards to the technical and tactical skills of their sport; they have experienced the training regime required to achieve the highest level and they absolutely understand the lifestyle sacrifices necessary for success.

For those elite athletes who retire from competing yet want to continue with their sport this knowledge can really boost their transition from athlete towards being a world-class coach.

This is the journey that Olympic Gold medalist, Hannah MacLeod is taking following her retirement from international hockey and acceptance onto UK Sport’s Athlete to Coach Programme.

‘The Athlete to Coach programme, run by UK Sport, is designed to help former international athletes accelerate their transition into world class coaching. I was very pleased to have been nominated by Great Britain Hockey for the one-year accelerated learning programme and received confirmation of my place after successfully completing the interview process with UK Sport.

Over the last 4 years, I have been in a relatively unique position in terms of balancing my playing career with coaching. I say unique simply because there are so few females that take up coaching positions within the sport, let alone whilst playing internationally. After spending 3 seasons with Maidenhead I took over as head coach St.Albans Ladies 1s and 2s during a period of significant growth and development within the club. Whilst it was a huge challenge for me and I will certainly hold my hands up and say I learnt from my mistakes, I’m proud of what we achieved at the club in a relatively short time.

The Athlete to Coach programme will provide an excellent opportunity for me to check and challenge my coaching style and philosophy whilst proving the opportunities to learn from an array of coaches across numerous Olympic sports. Spending years playing International hockey, particularly under the tutorage of such excellent technical and tactical coaches, has provided me with a great foundation from which to develop my own ideas and ways of working. I am incredibly passionate about being able to continue to contribute to the game in this country and ensure the period of success we have had over the last 7 or so years continues well into the future. I also believe we need to see more female coaches across the whole national and international set-up.

Transitioning from life as an athlete to that of a coach has been very smooth and I have quickly learnt this is a relatively unique and privileged feeling to have after listening to my peers from other sports who have joined me on the programme. Leaving the sport with an Olympic Gold medal and being able to choose my time to retire really is a dream come true. Whilst stepping back onto the pitch at Bisham Abbey during the England U21’s recent training camp against USA brought with it strong feelings of nostalgia, I am very content with the challenge of trying to impart my knowledge onto our future gold medalists.’

We want to wish Hannah the best of luck for her future in coaching.

England Hockey Board Media release

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