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All the news for Monday 27 January 2020

2020 FIH Pro League (Men) - 27 January

24 Jan 2020    ESP v GER (RR)     2 - 2 (3 - 4 SO)
25 Jan 2020    ESP v GER (RR)     1 - 5
25 Jan 2020    AUS v BEL (RR)      2 - 2 (Shoot out 2/4 - 4/5)
26 Jan 2020    AUS v BEL (RR)     2 - 4

Live streaming and full game replay on https://fih.live (May be Geo blocked if there is TV coverage)

Pool Standings

FIH Match Centre

2020 FIH Pro League (Women) - 27 January

24 Jan 2020     USA v NED (RR) Cancelled in memory of Larry Amar, US Teams Manager who died this week
25 Jan 2020     AUS v BEL (RR)     3 - 3 (4 - 2 SO)
26 Jan 2020     USA v NED (RR)     0 - 9
26 Jan 2020     AUS v BEL (RR)     1 - 1 (1 - 3 SO)

Live streaming and full game replay on https://fih.live (May be Geo blocked if there is TV coverage)

Pool Standings

FIH Match Centre

Double joy for Belgium against Australia in Sydney



The national teams of Belgium enjoyed an extremely fruitful away day on Sunday, with both the Red Panthers and the Red Lions getting the better of home favourites Australia in weather affected FIH Hockey Pro League fixtures at Sydney Olympic Park. 

For the second time in successive days, Australia and Belgium’s women needed a shoot-out to decide the destination of the bonus point, with the Red Panthers avenging Saturday’s loss in the one-on-ones with a 3-1 victory on Sunday.

In a match that featured delays due to soaring temperatures and a thunderstorm, the Hockeyroos had to wait until the end of the third quarter before Gabi Nance put the hosts ahead, deflecting home after a long period of Australian dominance. However, the Belgians hit back early in the fourth quarter thanks to Tiphaine Duquesne’s fierce penalty corner strike to tie the match at 1-1 and force a shoot-out. Louise Versavel, Duquesne and Barbara Nelen all converted in the one-one-ones, giving the Belgians a fine result against their higher-ranked opponents.

“It was a really tough game actually, also with the big break [due to the weather]”, said Belgium’s Emma Puvrez, who was named Player of the Match, in the post-match interview. “I think we played really well and worked really hard together. We really stuck together."

Australia’s Amy Lawton said: “The girls worked really hard, we were unfortunate in the end, but credit to Belgium, they did really well today. I guess it just shows the quality of the Pro League. We are all lucky to be a part of it.”

More information on this match can be found on the live reporting page by clicking here.

Having taken the world number 1 ranking position from their opponents thanks to a shoot-out bonus point earned on Saturday, Belgium men came into Sunday’s second meeting knowing that a positive result for the hosts would put the Kookaburras back at the top of the rankings. However, a superb 4-2 win ensured that the Red Lions will leave Australia with their position as the world top-ranked team intact, with the reigning World and European champions taking five points from a possible six against the winners of the 2019 FIH Hockey Pro League.

Player of the Match Alexander Hendrickx put Belgium into a 2-0 lead before a cracking backhand strike from Australia’s Lachlan Sharp reduced the deficit. A wonderful deflection into the roof of the net from Maxime Plennevaux put Belgium 3-1 up with four minutes remaining, forcing Australia to go for broke and replace their goalkeeper with an outfield player. That tactic backfired when a rapid Belgian breakaway allowed Emmanuel Stockbroekx to slap into an unguarded net before Jeremy Hayward bagged a final minute consolation penalty corner goal for the Kookaburras.

“I think we are very pleased”, said Alexander Hendrickx post-match. “We started the game well, we took control of the pace, we held the ball in the team and I think it was a deserved win. We took the number one spot from Australia yesterday, and I think we will try to hold onto it as long as possible.”

Australia co-captain Eddie Ockenden said: “We were in the game a lot today and it was a close match, but we need to play a bit better and that will come in the next few weeks. That’s the great thing about the Pro League, we play the best teams in the world, twice, every year and that is fantastic. To play a great team in our first two games has been awesome for us to learn and get better.”

More information on this match can be found on the live reporting page by clicking here.

Sunday’s late game between USA and reigning World, European and FIH Hockey Pro League champions the Netherlands, which takes to place in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, will be worth double points. The first match between the two sides, due to take place on Friday (24 January), was cancelled as a mark of respect following the tragic death of USA National Teams Manager Larry Amar. In accordance with the League’s regulations for a cancelled match, the points of this match will count double (6 points for the winning team, no point for the losing team; in case of a shoot-out, the team winning the shoot-out will get 4 points and the losing team 2 points).

The complete match schedule is available by clicking here.

Keep up to date with all the latest news on the FIH Hockey Pro League via the event website and through FIH social media channels -Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

FIH Hockey Pro League 

Match Day 7 - Sunday 26 January 2020

Sydney Olympic Park (AUS)

Women’s result: Australia 1, Belgium 1 - 1-3 After Shoot-Out (Match 2 of 2)
Player of the Match: Emma Puvrez (BEL)
Umpires: Michelle Joubert (RSA), Amber Church (NZL) & Raghu Prasad (IND - video)

Men’s result: Australia 2, Belgium 4 (Match 2 of 2)
Player of the Match: Alexander Hendrickx (BEL)
Umpires:  Simon Taylor (NZL), Raghu Prasad (IND) & Amber Church (NZL – video)

Match Day 7 - Late Game

Chapel Hill (USA) - Women: USA v Netherlands (Match 1 of 1)
Time: 1400 (GMT/UTC -5)

#FIHProLeague

Official FIH Pro League Site

Belgium sour hosts’ Australia Day

By The Hockey Paper



The Kookaburras and Hockeyroos had their Australia Day celebrations soured on Sunday at Sydney’s Olympic Park.

The Kookaburras suffered a 4-2 loss to new world No 1 Belgium while, for the second time in successive days in the FIH Pro League, Australia and Belgium’s women needed a shoot-out to decide the destination of the bonus point, with the Red Panthers avenging Saturday’s loss in the one-on-ones with a 3-1 victory.

In a match that saw delays thanks to high temperatures and a thunderstorm, the Hockeyroos had to wait until the end of the third quarter before Gabi Nance put the hosts ahead, deflecting home after a period of Australian dominance.

However, the Belgians hit back early in the fourth quarter thanks to Tiphaine Duquesne’s fierce penalty corner strike to tie the match at 1-1 and force a shoot-out. Louise Versavel, Duquesne and Barbara Nelen all converted in the one-on-ones, giving the Belgians a fine result against their higher-ranked opponents.

Having taken top ranking from their opponents thanks to a shoot-out bonus point earned on Saturday, Belgium men came into Sunday’s second meeting knowing that a positive result for the hosts would put the Kookaburras back at the top of the rankings.

However, a 4-2 win ensured that the Red Lions took five points from a possible six against the current Pro League champions.

Alexander Hendrickx put Belgium into a 2-0 lead before a cracking backhand strike from Australia’s Lachlan Sharp reduced the deficit.

A fine deflection into the roof of the net from Maxime Plennevaux put Belgium 3-1 up with four minutes remaining, forcing Australia to go for broke and replace their goalkeeper with an outfield player. That tactic backfired when a rapid Belgian breakaway allowed Emmanuel Stockbroekx to slap into an unguarded net before Jeremy Hayward bagged a final minute consolation penalty corner goal for the Kookaburras.

Analysis

There’s no doubting that the sport is in need for the Pro League to survive and thrive. Six months of top hockey is a boost for hockey, but there is still no sign of a major sponsor, despite the FIH admitting to The Hockey Paper last month was close to being inked. The sight of poor crowds at Sydney was another low point, despite Australia hockey being a continued success on the global scene.

Starting slow

The men’s result means Australia start the 2020 edition with one point from the opening two matches, the same position they began their 2019 title-winning campaign. Coming off a three-week preparation, it was always going to be a difficult proposition for Australia coming up against the European powerhouse midway through their season.

    Seriously @HockeyAustralia if you can’t get the crowds for #FIHproleague in the most populous city then it’s time to think regional!

    Far better to have 2k and a packed, partisan house than swathes of empty seats.

    Do it for the game!#bigboldpackedloud #hockey #GrowTheGame

    — The Reverse Stick??? (@thereversestick) January 26, 2020

What they said…

Australia co-captain Eddie Ockenden said: “We were in the game a lot today and it was a close match, but we need to play a bit better and that will come in the next few weeks. That’s the great thing about the Pro League, we play the best teams in the world, twice, every year and that is fantastic. To play a great team in our first two games has been awesome for us to learn and get better.”

Australia host Great Britain this weekend in a men’s and women’s double header.

Subscribe to our print or digital edition for the bigger picture in 2020. Discounts with our partners and major savings on our digital product for global readers. Find out which subscription suits you best. Sign up now!

It’s a huge year for the sport – and our mission is for all juniors, grass roots, masters and general hockey lovers to read the game.

The Hockey Paper

Double success for Belgium in FIH Hockey Pro League against Australia

By Neil Shefferd


Belgium's men's and women's teams both enjoyed success against Australia in the FIH Hockey Pro League ©FIH

Belgium's men's and women's teams both enjoyed success against their Australian compatriots in the International Hockey Federation (FIH) Pro League in Sydney.

For the second time in successive days, Australia and Belgium’s women needed a shoot-out to decide the destination of the bonus point, with the Red Panthers avenging yesterday’s loss with a 3-1 victory in one-on-ones.

In a match featuring delays due to soaring temperatures and a thunderstorm, the Hockeyroos had to wait until the end of the third quarter before Gabi Nance put them ahead, deflecting home after a long period of Australian dominance.

However, the Belgians hit back early in the fourth quarter thanks to Tiphaine Duquesne’s fierce strike from a penalty corner to tie the match at 1-1 and force a shoot-out.

Louise Versavel, Duquesne and Barbara Nelen all converted to help the Belgians to a shoot-out victory against their higher-ranked opponents.

“It was a really tough game actually, also with the big break,” said Belgium’s Emma Puvrez, the player of the match.

“I think we played really well and worked really hard together.

"We really stuck together."

Australia’s Amy Lawton said: “The girls worked really hard, we were unfortunate in the end, but credit to Belgium, they did really well today.

"I guess it just shows the quality of the Pro League.

"We are all lucky to be a part of it.”

Having leapfrogged their opponents to become world number one thanks to a shoot-out bonus point earned yesterday, Belgium's men came into this second meeting knowing a positive result for the Kookaburras would send them back at the top of the rankings.

However, a superb 4-2 win ensured that the Belgians will leave Australia with their position as the world's top-ranked team intact, with the reigning world and European champions taking five points from a possible six against the winners of the 2019 FIH Pro League.

Player of the match Alexander Hendrickx put Belgium into a 2-0 lead before a cracking backhand strike from Australia’s Lachlan Sharp reduced the deficit.

A deflected strike into the roof of the net from Maxime Plennevaux put Belgium 3-1 up with four minutes remaining, forcing Australia to go for broke and replace their goalkeeper with an outfield player.

That tactic backfired when a rapid Belgian breakaway allowed Emmanuel Stockbroekx to slap into an unguarded net before Jeremy Hayward bagged a final-minute consolation penalty-corner goal for the hosts to make the final score 4-2.


Alexander Hendrickx scored twice for Belgium as he turned in a player-of-the-match performance ©Getty Images

“We started the game well, we took control of the pace, we held the ball in the team and I think it was a deserved win" Hendrickx commented.

"We took the number one spot from Australia yesterday, and I think we will try to hold onto it as long as possible."

Australia co-captain Eddie Ockenden targeted improvement in the games to come.

“We were in the game a lot today and it was a close match, but we need to play a bit better and that will come in the next few weeks" he said.

"That is the great thing about the Pro League, we play the best teams in the world, twice, every year and that is fantastic.

"To play a great team in our first two games has been awesome for us to learn and get better.”

Inside the Games

Netherlands women take the spoils on emotional day for USA



Reigning champions the Netherlands made it three wins from three matches in the 2020 edition of the FIH Hockey Pro League, powering to a comfortable 9-0 victory over the USA in Chapel Hill, North Carolina on Sunday [26 January].

The USA started brightly but found themselves trailing 2-0 at half time thanks to goals from Player of the Match Felice Albers and Frederique Matla, who netted in the first and second quarters respectively. The Dutch raced through the gears after half time, with Lidewij Welten and a second for Albers taking the score to 4-0 going into what proved to be a remarkable final quarter. The reigning World and European champions scored five times in just eight minutes, with Albers and Welten both completing hat-tricks before Ginella Zerbo and Maria Verschoor contributed to a thoroughly comprehensive score-line.

As previously reported, the first match between the two sides, due to take place on Friday (24 January), was cancelled as a mark of respect following the tragic death of USA National Teams Manager Larry Amar. An emotional moment of silence was held in his memory ahead of today's match. In accordance with the League’s regulations for a cancelled match, the points of this match counted double, meaning that the Netherlands victory earned them a maximum six points from their trip to the USA.

Reacting to the result and her Player of the Match performance, Felice Albers said: "I think it was really [great], I've never scored three goals in a stadium before so that was good for me and I'm really happy with the win and also the team performance. It was a tough game, also due to the circumstances [regarding the passing of Larry Amar], but we played well and I'm really happy."

USA captain Ashley Hoffman said: "I think we learned that we are a feisty bunch, and we are just starting to write this journey for Pro League. We played the best in the world, so I think that shows us exactly where we stand as a team and there is a lot to pull from there."

More information on the match can be found on our live reporting page by clicking here.

Earlier in the day, national teams of Belgium enjoyed an extremely fruitful away day on Sunday, with both the Red Panthers and the Red Lions getting the better of home favourites Australia in weather affected FIH Hockey Pro League fixtures at Sydney Olympic Park. More information about those matches can be found by clicking here.

Keep up to date with all the latest news on the FIH Hockey Pro League via the event website and through FIH social media channels -Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

FIH Hockey Pro League 

Match Day 7 - Sunday 26 January 2020

Sydney Olympic Park (AUS)

Women’s result: Australia 1, Belgium 1 - 1-3 After Shoot-Out (Match 2 of 2)
Player of the Match: Emma Puvrez (BEL)
Umpires: Michelle Joubert (RSA), Amber Church (NZL) & Raghu Prasad (IND - video)

Men’s result: Australia 2, Belgium 4 (Match 2 of 2)
Player of the Match: Alexander Hendrickx (BEL)
Umpires: Simon Taylor (NZL), Raghu Prasad (IND) & Amber Church (NZL – video)

Chapel Hill, North Carolina (USA)

Women’s result: USA 0, Netherlands 9 (Match 1 of 1)
Player of the Match: Felice Albers (NED)
Umpires: Catalina Montesino (CHI), Irene Presenqui (ARG) & Alison Keogh (IRL - video).

#FIHProLeague

Official FIH Pro League Site

Clinical Belgium give Kookaburras plenty to ponder



The Kookaburras have had their Australia Day celebrations soured, suffering a 4-2 loss to new world number one Belgium in their FIH Pro League match tonight.

The result means Australia commence the 2020 edition with one point from the opening two matches, the same position they began their 2019 title winning campaign.

Coming off a three-week preparation, it was always going to be a difficult proposition for Australia coming up against the European powerhouse midway through their season.

Yet there were patches of the Kookaburras’ customary brilliance littered throughout, particularly from the likes of local New South Welshmen Tim Brand, Lachlan Sharp, Tom Craig and Flynn Ogilvie.

“We played really well in patches, but not for long enough. There’s a lot to improve on,” Kookaburras co-captain Eddie Ockenden acknowledged post-match.

Kookaburras goalkeeper Tyler Lovell was busy early on, completing a fine double save before Belgium opened the scoring through an Alexander Hendrickx penalty corner rocket after 13 minutes.

The Kookaburras enjoyed more possession in the second quarter but could only muster a clear-cut opportunity from Dylan Wotherspoon as Belgium headed into half-time 2-0 up by virtue of his Hendrickx’s second penalty corner conversion.

The game opened up in the third quarter, Sharp lifting the home crowd when he unleashed an unstoppable tomahawk into the Belgium goal.

Entering the final five minutes, Lovell’s crossbar came to the rescue to deny Sebastian Dockier only to see Maxime Plennevaux ghost in behind his marker and deflect truly seconds later.

With nothing to lose the Kookaburras reverted to eleven field players and piled on the pressure only to see Belgium counter attack at lightning speed to score through Emmanuel Stockbroekx.

Jeremy Hayward rifled a drag flick into the top right-hand corner of the net in the final late on but it was nothing more than a consolation as the Kookaburras could not cap off Matt Swann’s 200th appearance with a win.

The Kookaburras have a week to recover and prepare for two matches against Great Britain in Sydney next weekend, with tickets available from Ticketek and games broadcast on Fox Sports and/or Kayo.

Match Details
Kookaburras 2 (Sharp 42’, Hayward 60’)
Belgium 4 (Hendrickx 13’/25’, Plennevaux 56’, Stockbroekx 58’)
@ Sydney Olympic Park Hockey Centre

Kookaburras: 1.Lachlan SHARP, 2.Tom CRAIG, 5.Tom WICKHAM, 6.Matthew DAWSON. 9.Jacob ANDERSON, 11.Eddie OCKENDEN, 12.Jake WHETTON, 15.Josh SIMMONDS, 16.Tim HOWARD, 17.Aran ZALEWSKI (c), 20.Matthew SWANN, 22.Flynn OGILVIE, 23.Daniel BEALE, 24.Tyler LOVELL (gk), 26.Dylan WOTHERSPOON, 29.Tim BRAND, 32.Jeremy HAYWARD
Unused substitute: 30.Andrew CHARTER (gk)

Belgium: 2.Loic van DOREN (gk), 4.Arthur van DOREN, 7.John-John DOHMEN, 8.Florent van AUBEL, 9.Sebastien DOCKIER, 10.Cedric CHARLIER, 13.Nicolas de KERPEL, 14.Augustin MEURMANS, 15.Emmanuel STOCKBROEKX, 16.Alexander HENDRICKX, 17.Thomas BRIELS (c), 18.Maxime PLENNEVAUX, 19.Felix DENAYER, 22.Simon GOUGNARD, 23.Arthur de SLOOVER, 24.Antoine KINA, 25.Loick LUYPAERT
Unused substitute: 21.Vincent VANASCH (gk)

Hockey Australia media release

Tables turned as Hockeyroos on wrong end of shootout drama



A day after triumphing in similar circumstances, the Hockeyroos have gone down to Belgium 3-1 in a penalty shootout after scores were locked 1-1 at the end of regulation time in their FIH Pro League match in Sydney.

The match was a tale of two halves, separated by a 55 minute weather delay as a thunderstorm swept over Homebush, with Belgium holding the upper-hand until the break.

Louise Versavel had the best chance of the opening quarter but was unable to guide an effort on target, before the Hockeyroos hit the woodwork from a Grace Stewart penalty corner deflection.

Versavel earned the visitors a penalty stroke after being impeded by Gabi Nance while shaping to shoot in the 22nd minute. Called in to replace the injured Ashlee Wells, Rachael Lynch came to the Hockeyroos rescue with an incredible stick save diving to her right to deny Belgium’s Tiphaine Duquesne.

As lightning closed in with eighty seconds left until half-time, Australia’s defenders had been the busier of the sides with Belgium leading the circle entry count 13-7.

The Hockeyroos came out a different outfit upon the resumption as they started to control the tempo which Belgium had held for much of the first half.

The third term belonged firmly to the world number two hosts and they thought they had the lead when Stewart scrambled a rebound from above her head across the line but, after some initial confusion on review, Australia was only awarded a penalty corner.

Then 24 seconds from three quarter time, Australia broke the deadlock as Gabi Nance deflected home her eighth Hockeyroos goal and first since 2017 after a circle entry from Amy Lawton and a smart assist from Jane Claxton.

But the lead lasted barely two minutes as Duquesne made amends for her earlier effort, her shot managing to find its way under the body of an outstretched Lynch in the 47th minute.

The Hockeyroos finished with a flurry of penalty corners to end with 12 for the match, Brooke Peris narrowly missing a half-chance on the buzzer to send the game to another shootout.

Versavel opened the scoring for Belgium before goalkeeper Aisling D’Hooghe rose off the bench to save Stewart and Nance’s efforts.

After Steph Kershaw was unable convert, skipper Jodie Kenny struck truly but it was sandwiched between conversions to Duqesne and captain Barbara Nelen to leave the teams with a penalty shootout victory each over the two matches.

“There is no question we were better in the second half,” said Hockeyroos Head Coach Paul Gaudoin.

“A couple of things weren’t working early on, so we tweaked a few things and it was pleasing that we came out in the third quarter and dominated the second half.”

“We had chances at the end to score but we’ve got to become more ruthless when we finish.”

“These were our first matches of the year so there is time to build and get better, but at the end of the day it is about training hard and translating that into the matches.”

“Over the two games there were some really good things and some things where we have to demand more of ourselves individually and collectively, so we’re looking forward to playing against Great Britain and testing ourselves against another quality team.”

The Hockeyroos are back at Sydney Olympic Park next weekend to take on reigning Olympic gold medallists Great Britain on 1/2 February.

Tickets for the double headers against Great Britain are available through Ticketek, with the matches shown LIVE on Fox Sports and/or Kayo.

Match Details
Hockeyroos 1 (Nance 45’)
Belgium 1 (Duquesne 47’)
Belgium wins 3-1 on penalties
@ Sydney Olympic Park Hockey Centre

Hockeyroos: 1.Sophie TAYLOR, 2.Rosie MALONE, 3.Brooke PERIS, 4.Amy LAWTON, 7.Jodie KENNY, 8.Georgia WILSON, 11.Karri McMAHON, 13.Edwina BONE, 14.Stephanie KERSHAW, 15.Kaitlin NOBBS, 16.Gabrielle NANCE, 18.Jane CLAXTON, 21.Renee TAYLOR, 22.Kate JENNER, 23.Kalindi COMMERFORD, 26.Emily CHALKER (c), 27.Rachael LYNCH (gk), 30 Grace STEWART
Unused substitute: 19.Jocelyn BARTRAM (gk)

Belgium: 2.Sophie LIMAUGE, 3.Abi RAYE, 7.Judith VANDERMEIREN, 8.Emma PUVREZ, 10.Louise VERSAVEL, 15.Anne-Sophie WEYNS, 16.Tiphanie DUQUESNE, 17.Michelle STRUIJK, 19.Barbara NELEN (c), 23.Elena SOTGIU (gk), 24.Anne-Sophie VANDEN BORRE, 25.Pauline LECLEF, 26.Lien HILLEWAERT, 28.Justine RASIR, 30.Ambre BALLENGHIEN, 32.Charlotte ENGLEBERT, 33.Alexia ‘T SERSTEVENS
Unused substitute: 21.Aisling D’HOOGHE (gk)

Hockey Australia media release

Dominant Scoring Performance Leads The Netherlands Over USWNT in First FIH Hockey Pro League Game


Image Taken by Jeffrey Camarati

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – It was a gorgeous day at Karen Shelton Stadium in Chapel Hill, N.C. as the No. 13 U.S. Women’s National Team played their first FIH Hockey Pro League match of the 2020 season against No. 1 The Netherlands. With emotions high, as the match was dedicated to Larry Amar, USA couldn’t overcome the dominant scoring performance of the Oranje as the red, white and blue fell 9-0.

USA started the game on the front foot, keeping possession in the left corner but were unable to successfully penetrate the circle. The Netherlands wasted no time to capitalize on quick passing by working the ball into their attacking end. In the 6th minute, forward movement started when Xan de Waard touched it around a USA defender and got to the top of the circle and passed it left to Frederique Matla. She sent a perfect ball off the right post to a diving Felice Albers. It looked like the Oranje were going to extend their lead moments after the restart by earning a penalty corner but Matla’s attempt went wide. USA had a close chance when Linnea Gonzales (Bel Air, Md.) picked off The Netherlands in the midfield and threaded it forward to Madison Maguire (Rumson, N.J.). She beat her defender, but her pass was intercepted. The first quarter concluded with the Oranje holding a 1-0 lead.

The second frame started with the Oranje moving quickly into their offensive end. USA goalkeeper Kealsie Robles (Yorktown, Va.) was tested a few times by some shots and she also stepped up to make some critical clears. In the 23rd minute, Lidewij Welten got inside the circle, pushed it toward goal and Matla touched it past Robles for The Netherlands’ second goal. The red, white and blue kept pushing forward any open chance. Alyssa Parker (Woodbine, Md.) fought through a tackle and passed it ahead to Danielle Grega (Kingston, Pa.) who passed it on to Gonzales whose backhand shot went high and wide. The Oranje maintained possession in the final few minutes, tallying three more shots and two penalty corners, but USA goalkeeper Robles and the defensive unit kept the score at 2-0.

From the third quarter starting whistle, the Oranje immediately took it into their attacking circle and tested Robles, forcing her to make a diving clear. As play developed, The Netherlands held the advantage with shots coming from Albers, Laurien Leurink, Maria Verschoor and Welten. In the 40th minute, following a disallowed goal, a long ball into the circle by Matla found Welten who turned and finished into the net. Off the restart, USA worked it into their offensive circle and earned back-to-back penalty corners. The first attempt was a straight shot by Gonzales that was saved by the Oranje’s goalkeeper Anne Veenendaal. The second was a sweep from Carrie Hanks (Niskayuna, N.Y.) that went off the flyer but she recovered and sent a hard shot toward goal. With two minutes remaining in the quarter, The Netherlands extended their lead to 4-0 after Matla dribbled forward and passed it left to Albers who sent a hard backhand into the corner of the goal.

The Netherlands continued to show scoring dominance in the fourth quarter, adding another five to the scoreboard. The fifth goal came off a textbook penalty corner conversion where a drag by Matla was sent down to Welten who deflected it into the net. Next, again off a penalty corner, a slip behind sweep was saved by Robles but the rebound fell to The Netherlands and was crossed and batted out of the air by Albers. Welten grabbed her third of the game on the seventh goal and Ginella Zerbo added her name to the scoresheet on the eighth. The Oranje rounded out the scoring in the 59th minute on a one-time hit from Maria Verschoor. The final score was in favor of the Oranje, 9-0.

"I think because we are so young we may lack the experience of the speed of the game," said Ashley Hoffman (Mohnton, Pa.), USWNT defender, following the game. "If we can keep transferring the ball faster, I think that was a challenge for us this game, also tracking our players, they would run in behind, and we were a little slow in transition. So if we just work on those challenges of the game, there is always room for improvement."

"We need to work on our press so we go all together," continued Hoffman, talking about looking to their next match. "If a forward goes, we need to back her up in behind and I think if we do that we can get some of those 50/50 balls."

Following the game, The Netherlands’ Felice Albers was named Player of the Match for opening the scoring in the match on her way to recording a hat trick.

Today’s contest marked career milestones for three USA athletes as Carrie Hanks (Niskayuna, N.Y.), Kelee Lepage (Honeybrook, Pa.) and Maguire all played in their first international cap.

Also in today’s match, the USWNT, The Netherlands and officials wore black wristbands to honor Larry Amar, who passed away earlier this week. There was a joint moment of silence prior to the start as all joined together to honor a man truly dedicated to the sport. Please consider making a donation to support the Larry Amar Family Fund.

The U.S. Women’s National Team will travel to Buenos Aires, Argentina for their first away tour of the FIH Hockey Pro League to take on No. 3 Argentina on Friday, February 7 and Saturday, February 8.

#FIHProLeague
#MyProLeagueMoment
#HockeyInvites

USFHA media release

EuroHockey Indoor Championship 2020 (W)
Minsk, Belarus

26 Jan 2020    UKR v SUI (Pool C)             6 - 2
26 Jan 2020     AUT v BEL (Pool C)         3 - 1
26 Jan 2020      GER v CZE (3rd/4th Place)     2 - 2 (1 - 2 SO)
26 Jan 2020     BLR v NED (Final)             1 - 1 (4 - 3 SO)

Final Standingss Pool C

FIH Match Centre

HC Minsk’s Nikitsina central to shock Belarus Euro indoor victory



Belarus produced a late twist in the tail to win the women’s EuroHockey Indoor Championships for the very first time as they beat the Netherlands in a final shoot-out.

They had already eliminated reigning champions Germany in the semi-final but they looked to be underdogs against the Dutch after a 4-1 group stage defeat.

And they fell behind in the eighth minute to a Lisa Post finish. But that was the only goal to accrue until just a few seconds from the final hooter when HC Minsk’s Maryna Nikitsina got on the end of a smart move down the left boards.

She was among a group of five Minsk players – Maryna Navitskaya, Nastassia Syrayezhka, Krestina Papkova and Yauheniya Filipovich the other ones – who will also be in the running to play in the EHL FINAL8 this summer.

Belarus then went on to win the shoot-out 4-3 in the sixth round of the competition, Nikitsina – the joint tournament top scorer – again popping up with the winning goal after Veranika Mikanovich kept out the final Dutch effort for a famous success.

It was Belarus’s first ever Euro final and it adds to their bronze medal wins in 2008 and 2012.

AH&BC Amsterdam’s Noor de Baat was named Under-21 player of the tournament.

Euro Hockey League media release

Belarus spark wild scenes to lift EuroHockey Nations women’s title

By The Hockey Paper


Belarus on top podium in Minsk PIC: Worldsportpics

All hail European indoor hockey.

Belarus sparked euphoric scenes in front of home support as they scored in the dying seconds of the EuroHockey Nations final against Holland on Sunday – and then triumphed for the first time.

Losing to a first quarter goal in Minsk, the hosts touched in with just 16 seconds left to go of the final to take the game to a shoot-out against the Dutch, who had beaten Belarus in the pool stages.

The stout Belarus side, coached by Dutchman Herman Kruis, then held their nerve to prevail 4-3 to spark wild celebrations after a riveting ending.

Holland had won the Euros twice in the last four years, with four successive final appearances, while Belarus had finished third in the previous two editions, including in Minsk four years ago.

And this victory marked their finest achievement, a first gold as Maryna Nikisina slotted home to give Belarus a 4-3 shoot-out victory.

The Czech Republic took bronze with a 2-1 shoot-out victory over Germany, the defending champions.

The Hockey Paper will produce a full feature on Belarus’ triumph in our next issue.

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The Hockey Paper

EuroHockey Indoor Championship II 2020 (W)
Sveti Ivan Zelina, Croatia

26 Jan 2020    SCO v TUR (Pool A)     1 - 3
26 Jan 2020     CRO v WAL (Pool A)     5 - 1
26 Jan 2020     POL v LTU (Pool A)         5 - 2
26 Jan 2020     SCO v RUS (Pool A)     5 - 12
26 Jan 2020    WAL v TUR (Pool A)     0 - 13
26 Jan 2020    LTU v CRO (Pool A)     3 - 0
26 Jan 2020     POL v RUS (Pool A)     4 - 6

Final Pool Standings

FIH Match Centre

Scotland take bronze at Women’s Indoor EuroHockey Championship II

Scotland ended Women’s Indoor EuroHockey Championship II in Croatia with a bronze medal after two battling defeats against Turkey and Russia. The Scots however narrowly missed out on promotion to the top level of European indoor hockey.

Turkey came out on top in a 3-1 victory over the Scots to start the day before an epic goal-fest saw the Tartan Hearts go down 12-5 to Russia in the second game.

The results meant Scotland’s destiny was taken out of their own hands and they had to look at results elsewhere for their promotion efforts. Turkey took the opportunity in their final game against Wales to increase their goal difference and take second spot, and promotion, at the final post.
 
Scotland 1-3 Turkey

A nervy and tricky match against Turkey saw Scotland lose their first game of Women’s Indoor EuroHockey Championship II 3-1. The Scots retained their joint-top position but saw the gap narrow to three points ahead of their final game against fellow table-toppers Russia.

A goalless first half couldn’t deliver anything to separate the sides; it was a sticky encounter with neither team giving an inch.

The game came alive in the third quarter and Turkey had Scotland pegged back as they tried to work their way around the defence via the channels.

However, it was Scotland who took the lead. A penalty stroke was awarded to Scotland and Sarah Jamieson once again stepped up to strike, and found the bottom left corner to make it 1-0.

A short time after the opener Jess Ross had a great chance to make it two for Scotland when she ran through one-on-one, but the goalkeeper did well to deny the goal.

Then Sinem Alpakan equalised for Turkey right at the end of the third quarter from a nice penalty corner deflection.

It was a nervy final quarter. Scotland fashioned a chance to go ahead early in the fourth, Jamieson won the ball and powered forward but the goalkeeper managed to narrow the angle and block the final effort.

Turkey then took the lead from a penalty stroke – 2-1 with a clinical strike by Perrihan Kucukkoc.

Two minutes later Scottish pressure broke down and allowed a Turkish counter; they isolated Carmin Dow in goal to allow Yeter Celik an open goal to make it 3-1.

Scotland 5-12 Russia

It was a 17-goal spectacular in Scotland’s final match of Women’s Indoor EuroHockey Championship II in Croatia, with Russia beating Scotland 12-5. The result saw Russia promoted with Scotland in second place waiting on the results of other matches to find out if the second promotion spot would be theirs.

It was a good start to the game by Scotland. An early Russian penalty corner was well defended by the Scots, and it allowed them to come forward and capitalise with their first attempt – Jen Eadie opened the scoring to make it 1-0.

After the goal Scotland settled into their groove and played some nice hockey, particularly down the right.

The Russians have a lethal attack however and with their second penalty corner opportunity they made no mistake. Bogdana Sadovaia struck home to make it 1-1.

The goal sparked the Russians into life. A quick-fire double by Svetlana Eroshina put some distance between the two on the score sheet as Russia went 3-1 ahead.

The Scots were plucky however; Ruth Blaikie pulled one back for Scotland but Russia’s reply was instant with Eroshina’s hat-trick goal for 4-1.

Still, the Scots kept at them. Sarah Jamieson went on a powerful solo run in the second quarter but some good goalkeeping denied her a goal.

Russia then went 5-2 up through an attack down their left, a zipped pass let Alina Khalimova knick in ahead of Carmin Dow and prod the ball home.

Scotland conceded another penalty corner and it seemed the ball was always destined for the net. Sadovaia launched a drag flick into the roof of the goal to make it 6-2. Moments later Scotland conceded another penalty corner and Varvara Makeeva drag flicked the ball to the exact same spot for 7-2.

Scotland went on the attack and then got caught by a fast counter attack and Eroshina found the net to make it 8-2. It was a very quick flurry of Russian goals.

In the second half there was good Scottish pressure but they were unable to break Russia down. Then Eroshina scored again after she went twisting and turning in the circle before slotting into the gaping goal.

Scotland latched onto a rare loose Russian pass and Ruth Blaikie converted well to give Scotland a third goal.

Immediately Russia went right down the court and scored again, Iuillia Sartakova with a tap in before Eroshina scored another from a tight angle.

Russia scored right at the start of the final quarter. Scotland responded through a lovely finish by Heather Howie – a reverse flick across the goalkeeper and into the net.

Emily Dark scored a fifth for Scotland with a high drag flick with five minutes remaining. It was to be the final goal of the high-scoring contest and meant Scotland would have to look at results elsewhere in the bid for promotion. Sadly those results didn’t go Scotland’s way and Turkey took the second promotion spot giving the Scots the bronze medal.

Scotland women’s Indoor Head Coach Iain Strachan said, “We played well against Turkey, some decisions didn’t go our way but we made a good account of ourselves. Russia were a better side but we gave them a great game. We could have sat back and kept it tight, but that’s not what we’re about – we took the fight to them. We had a go and every player in the squad got a run out against a top quality side.

“Overall, I’m delighted. To come away with a bronze medal is a really good achievement. I’m proud of the squad, they’ve worked so hard and played a great tournament. I’m proud of the support staff, everyone has been absolutely fantastic.”

Scottish Hockey Union media release

EuroHockey Indoor Championship III 2020 (W)
Bratislava, Slovakia

26 Jan 2020 08:15     IRL v FIN (Pool A)         15 - 0
26 Jan 2020 09:30     ESP v DEN (Pool A)     10 - 0
26 Jan 2020 10:45     SVK v POR (Pool A)     1 - 3
26 Jan 2020 12:00     IRL v SLO (Pool A)         9 - 2
26 Jan 2020 13:15     DEN v FIN (Pool A)         13 - 1
26 Jan 2020 14:30     POR v ESP (Pool A)     0 - 12
26 Jan 2020 15:45     SVK v SLO (Pool A)     8 - 0

Final Pool Standings

FIH Match Centre

Ireland’s glistening silver lining and promotion in Bratislava


The Irish women’s indoor side in Bratislava

Ireland’s women earned European indoor promotion at the first attempt after they romped over the line in Bratislava, earning them a silver medal from the third tier of continental competition with two big wins on Sunday..

It was their first tournament entry in 30 years but coach Dave Passmore – like John Jackson from the men a week ago – believes this success can provide a launchpad for greater commitment to the short-form of the game.

“Working with great people is always rewarding but working with this bunch has been an absolute pleasure,” he said. “They’ve come so far in such a short period of time, playing really good team indoor hockey.

“We have varied our tactics in every game and they’ve reaped the rewards. Hopefully this is something we and Hockey Ireland can build on for the future.”

Needing to defeat the bottom two ranked sides on Sunday, Ireland had their fate in their own hands and showed no qualms about making the most of the situation.

The hapless Finland – who ended with a goal difference of  minus 78 – were beaten 15-0 in the first game of the day with a double from Naomi Carroll and a corner from Orla Fox putting them 3-0 up after five minutes. Chloe Brown top scored with four and Carroll ended with a hat trick.

That put them on the brink and Slovenia were duly dispatched with minimal fuss with four goals coming in the first six minutes, dissipating any nerves as Carroll, Amy Benson and another two Brown goals led the way.

Two from Ali Meeke and one each from Sophie Barnwell and Sarah Patton made it 8-0 before the Slovenians got a couple back but Orla Patton closed out a famous tournament with a ninth goal for a 9-2 success.

To formally see second place assured, they had to wait a few hours to see if Spain could avoid a 19-goal defeat to Portugal – the Spaniards ran up a 12-0 win to underline their dominance of the event, finishing with a plus goal difference of 79.

Ireland were next on 15 points and a strong scoring difference, netting the only goal Spain conceded over the course of the competition. It assures Ireland of a place in the second tier in 2020 alongside the likes of Scotland, Poland, Lithuania and Croatia.

Elsewhere, Ards landed the Ulster indoor title for a ninth successive season. They were understrength by virtue of their international call-ups for what was a hastily arranged competition.

Without a hall booked in time, the Ulster tournament initially looked set to be scrapped but was put back on the agenda for this Sunday and they came out on top against North Down (4-0), Lisnagarvey (2-1) and Queen’s (3-2).

They will play Muckross in the women’s semi-finals next Sunday (12.30pm) in Galway with Railway Union facing Connacht champions Galway (11.30am) at the Kingfisher Hall.

The National Indoor Trophy final will be on at 4.45pm with the bronze medal game at 2.30pm.

Ireland squad: M Regan, H Humphreys, A Meeke, O Patton, O Fox, S Patton, C Adams, A Benson, N Carroll, E Getty, S Barnwell, C Brown

EuroHockey Championships III (Bratislava, Slovakia)

Sunday results: Ireland 15 (C Brown 4, N Carroll 3, A Benson 2, O Fox 2, E Getty, S Barnwell, S Patton, O Patton) Finland 0; Ireland 9 (C Brown 2, A Meeke 2, N Carroll, A Benson, O Patton, S Barnwell, S Patton) Slovenia 2 (A Rituper 2)

Final standings: 1. Spain 18pts 2. Ireland 15pts 3. Portugal 12pts 4. Slovakia 9pts 5. Denmark 6pts 6. Slovenia 3pts 7. Finland 0pts

The Hook

2020 Test matches RSA v IRL (W) - 2nd Test
Stellenbosch (RSA)

26 Jan 2020     RSA v IRL     1 - 5

FIH Match Centre

2020 Test matches IRL v GER (W) - 1st Test
Stellenbosch (RSA)

25 Jan 2020     IRL v GER     0 - 4

FIH Match Centre

Green Army fall to Germany but defeat South Africa in Stellenbosch



Ireland’s women recorded their biggest ever win over South Africa from a mixed bag of fixtures in Stellenbosch over the weekend.

On Saturday, the Green Army lost 4-0 to Germany. Pia Maertens poked home a rebound in the first quarter following a speedy right-wing attack before a pair of strokes just before half-time moved Germany three clear – Viktoria Huse and Rebecca Grote scored one each.

Maertens then got the fourth goal in the 45th minute with a classy set of skills on the baseline before firing in.

A day later, Ireland were the ones doing the dominating against South Africa, winning 5-1. Anna O’Flanagan was at the heart of the first goal, laying off to Katie Mullan and then picking up Ellen Curran’s pass, leading to a reverse across goal which Nikki Evans turned in.

Two goals in a minute before half-time made it 3-0. Shirley McCay’s sweep hit a foot on the line and Lena Tice scored the ensuing stroke. Roisin Upton created and scored the third, stepping through to rob possession on halfway and she piled forward, feeding Evans who returned the favour for the Limerick woman to net.

O’Flanagan got her own goal early in the second half before Nomnikelo Veto got one back in 40th minute. Sarah Hawkshaw’s corner goal, however, finished off the scoring toward the end of the third quarter.

The tie saw Emily Beatty earn her 100th cap for Ireland.

Women’s senior international (both in Stellenbosch)

Saturday: Ireland 0 Germany 4 (P Maertens 2, V Huse, R Grote)

Sunday: Ireland 5 (N Evans, L Tice, R Upton, A O’Flanagan, S Hawkshaw) South Africa 1 (N Veto)

Tuesday: Ireland v South Africa, 5pm

Wednesday: Ireland v Germany, 5pm

The Hook

Ireland women secure South Africa series with a match to spare after 5-1 win


Anna O'Flanagan and her Ireland team-mates will face South Africa in their opening pool match at this year's Olympics. Anna O'Flanagan was on target in Ireland's 5-1 win over South Africa

Ireland's women secured victory in their three-match Test series in South Africa with a game to spare as they beat the hosts 5-1 on Sunday.

Nikki Evans, Lena Tice, Roisin Upton, Anna O'Flanagan and Sarah Hawkshaw scored Ireland's goals in Stellenbosch.

The Irish won the first match in the series 1-0 with the final encounter taking place on Tuesday.

The sides will also face each other in their opening pool game at the Olympics in Tokyo in July.

Following Tuesday's game, Ireland will face Germany on Wednesday. The Germans, also pool opponents in Japan, beat Ireland 4-0 on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Ireland's women clinched a silver medal and promotion at the European Indoor Championships Division 3 in Bratislava on Sunday.

In the first time since 1990 that the Irish had entered the competition, a 15-0 win over Finland and 9-2 success over Slovenia secured Ireland's promotion.

Ulster's Chloe Brown top-scored with four goals against the Finns with World Cup silver medallist Ali Meeke also netting twice.

BBC Sport

2020 Test matches ARG v ESP (W) - 1st & 2nd Test
Mar del Plata (ARG)

25 Jan 2020 19:30     ARG v ESP     2 - 1
26 Jan 2020 19:30     ARG v ESP     0 - 3

FIH Match Centre

Graham Shaw, the Irish miracle worker who took on the Black Sticks

David Leggat


Graham Shaw celebrates an Ireland victory over India at the 2018 World Cup. CHRISTOPHER LEE/GETTY

This story was originally published on Locker Room at Newsroom.co.nz, and is republished with permission.

Graham Shaw admits there were plenty of times when he wondered whether he had chosen the right sports career path.

You see, as a teenager, Irishman Shaw showed signs of being a distinctly promising footballer, as well as a more than useful hockey player.

He quips that his bank balance may have been healthier had he pursued the football path. But instead, around the age of 17, he opted for hockey.

It was in his family, and he liked the people and the spirit within the sport.

So the die was cast. Now, fast-forward about 20 years.

After leading the Irish women's hockey side to runners-up at the World Cup in 2018 - stunning the hockey world and helping push them towards Olympic qualification for the first time and a meteoric rise to world No. 8 - Shaw took over the women's Black Sticks in the middle of last year, replacing Australian-born Mark Hager.


Chloe Watkins and Graham Shaw were key elements in the Irish march into the World Cup final in 2018.CHRISTOPHER LEE/GETTY

Shaw, a 151-cap international player for Ireland from 2001-10, says he'd always admired the Black Sticks' way of playing. And having been in the country, he loved what he saw away from the hockey field.

When he knew it was time for a change, and the New Zealand job came up, it was, as the 40-year-old puts it, "a no-brainer decision".

"I'd seen a bit of the country and just had a real feeling that it's a place I'd love to live if I had an opportunity, and to give that to my family [wife Ali and children Jack and Ellie] as well," Shaw says.

"I'd had a huge interest in the Black Sticks as a follower from afar, how they go about their business, their style of hockey and the level of players in their team."


Graham Shaw talks to the Irish players at the World Cup.CHRISTOPHER LEE/GETTY

Put it all together and Shaw is chuffed with his situation as he prepares for the second edition of the global Pro League. It starts for the world No. 6 Black Sticks with two tests against 12th-ranked Belgium at North Harbour on February 1 and 2.

Graham Shaw's smarts around the European game could take the Black Sticks to fresh heights at the Tokyo Olympics. Photo: Getty Images.

Last year, New Zealand finished sixth in the inaugural Pro League - an eight-nation round robin tournament - with six wins and 10 losses. They were capable of better and now it's up to Shaw to turn that expectation into reality.

So what is the man from Dublin's style – carrot or stick or…?

"I'm very passionate and I like to give players a lot of belief, challenge them in the right way, but I'm also a very caring individual," he says.


Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern congratulates the Black Sticks on winning Commonwealth Games gold. Former coach Mark Hager is back right. JOHN COWPLAND/PHOTOSPORT

"I try to create a fun environment as well so they can grow and learn, and not be worried when they make a mistake.

"I want them to ask questions. I'm not there as a dictator, more facilitating a team to achieve their goal."

Shaw knows it's important that while trying to impose his thoughts on how to play the game, not to lose sight of a team's strengths.

"We've got a lot of physical capability in our team so that will be an element in how we play the game," he says.

"But we need to be quite adaptable and flexible. Going into the Olympics, you wouldn't want just one plan. But it's about playing to team strengths."


Celebration time for Graham Shaw and Ireland as they beat Spain to make the World Cup final. CHRISTOPHER LEE/GETTY

Shaw's first game in charge was against the United States midway through last year's Pro League. But now it's entirely his show, his selections. So what were his first thoughts when he clapped eyes on the players he'd inherited from the Hager reign?

"From where I'd come from, it is quite a different style of hockey. There is a little more technique and element of control in the European game," he says. 

"Here there's maybe less emphasis on that. So it's an area we'll focus on, without taking away the aggression and speed we can play at."

The Black Sticks squad has been strengthened ahead of the Pro League by the decision of two outstanding players to come out of retirement for one last tilt at the Olympics.


Graham Shaw shouts orders to in the World Cup quarterfinal between Ireland and India in 2018. CHRISTOPHER LEE/GETTY

Former captain and midfield organiser Kayla Whitelock and free-scoring attacker Gemma McCaw are back in the squad.

Considering the Black Sticks have lost a wealth of experienced players since the 2016 Olympics – which ended, for a second straight Games, in a heart-breaking fourth-place finish – these two provide a welcome chunk of wisdom. And it's been a big step for the mothers of young children too.

"I was delighted when Kayla and Gemma put their name in the hat for selection," says Shaw. "They had performed at a very high level in the National Hockey League [late last year].

"There's invaluable experience they'd learnt over many years and campaigns. That's going to be huge for the squad.


The Black sticks walk through a guard of honour formed by Kamo Intermediate School pupils Kerry Marinkovich/Stuff

"They're outstanding people and I have no doubt they will improve our environment and help players grow and learn. It's also a credit to their families that they're willing to make this sacrifice."

Back to Ireland, who will also be at the Olympics for the first time. In a country where Gaelic football, hurling, football and rugby - roughly in that order - hold sway, consider the impact the World Cup final appearance had on the game of hockey there.

"It's been huge," Shaw says. "The Gaelic sports are always going to be quite dominant but attendance levels for hockey are up 100 percent, clubs are full and looking to expand facilities.

"For the Canada qualifier [drawn 0-0 over two legs at the start of November, but the Irish winning the shootout 4-3 to confirm their Olympic ticket] there were 6000. Two years ago, maybe you'd have got 200.


Chloe Watkins and Graham Shaw of Ireland celebrate victory over Spain in the World Cup semifinals. CHRISTOPHER LEE/GETTY

"It's definitely brought the sport to a whole new level and hopefully Ireland can capitalise on that in the next few years and look forward to a really good future."

Crowds of up to 15,000 greeted the team on their return to Dublin – "they closed one of the main streets. It was something I never thought would happen in my lifetime in hockey. You pinch yourself."

Now add in that Shaw and his women won the Irish sports coach and team of the year; Shaw pipping New Zealander Joe Schmidt, the mastermind behind Ireland's recent Northern Hemisphere rugby triumphs.

"That was such an honour and privilege to even get nominated. But to win? Yeah, pretty big," Shaw admits.


A first Olympic medal is the goal for Graham Shaw and his Black Sticks women. CHRISTOPHER LEE/GETTY

"That was a huge moment personally and for the team. I don't think we realised the support we had back home. I didn't think in my lifetime I'd see that happen in our sport. It was very, very cool."

The Olympic draw is out and the Black Sticks and Irish are in different pools. New Zealand are in a group with Australia (world No. 2), Argentina (3), Spain (7), China (10) and Japan (14).

The Pro League will take up most of what would have been preparation time for most of the teams in the Olympic field.

Shaw acknowledges there will be times he'd rather have his players either in a camp environment, or playing a series of games with an emphasis on tactical readiness or strategies, rather than have points in the Pro League at stake.

But that's the way it is. He does have a couple of unofficial internationals against India today and on Wednesday before the league starts. As Shaw points out, he's unlikely to be the only coach who might prefer a different, more tailored Olympic preparation.

Still, it's exciting times for both coach and squad. Who knows, Shaw's knowledge and smarts around the European game might just take the Black Sticks to fresh heights come Tokyo.

Shaw is contracted to Hockey New Zealand until the 2022 World Cup. It's early days, but he makes it clear the idea of extending that, from both the lifestyle and coaching aspects, has plenty of appeal.

Stuff

THT struggling due to lack of quality benchwarmers

By Jugjet Singh


K. Dharmaraj

KUALA LUMPUR: A team need to have quality benchwarmers to excel in tournaments.

Terengganu Hockey Team (THT) are currently struggling against the favourites in the Malaysia Hockey League (MHL) as they do not have enough depth on the bench.

This is because Maybank, Tenaga Nasional and Thunderbolts had signed all the up-and-coming players in the country.

That, according to THT coach K. Dharmaraj, left him with leftovers for the MHL.

And so, his bench was too weak to rely upon against Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) and Tenaga.

“When I took over THT and saw the players that we had, I warned the management that we were going to face a tough season as we do not have strength on the bench.

“And as a result, our best 11 had to play for long periods against UniKL and Tenaga as I could not afford substitutions,” said Dharmaraj.

The reigning overall champions look like they will end up without a title this season after losing the Charity Shield to UniKL (3-2).

THT, who lost 4-2 to Tenaga, are now fourth after five matches behind Tenaga, THT and Maybank.

“When I approached some young players from Maybank before the start of the season, they told me that they had signed two-year contracts with the bank.

“We are making do with homegrown youth, and it will take some time for them to mature into better players.

“And in the meantime, THT will suffer a slide,” said Dharmaraj.

UniKL have seven national players as well as four quality imports to rely upon, while THT have five national and four guest players, but their national players have also been underperforming.

With two more matches left before the return leg starts in this eight-team league, it looks like only Tenaga and UniKL will be battling for the title this season.

New Straits Times

New signing Faid passes with flying colours at UniKL

By AFTAR SINGH


Mohd Faid Farhadh Mohd Shah (in the centre and No. 11) in action in the Malaysia Hockey League (MHL) match.

KUALA LUMPUR: New signing Mohd Faid Farhadh Mohd Shah joined league champions Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) as an unknown although he had played in the Malaysia Hockey League (MHL) for three seasons – one with Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) and two with Maybank.

Now, he is going great guns and even UniKL coach Arul Selvaraj is full of praise.

“I am very happy with Faid’s all-round performance in the league. He has been great on the field and is very committed.

“He only joined us this season but he has adapted well. It is a good start but there is still room for improvement, ” said Arul.

The 23-year old midfielder, who is pursuing a degree in Sports and Recreation at Universiti Kebangaan Malaysia (UKM), said it was an honour to be given the opportunity to play alongside experienced national and foreign players in UniKL.

“Everyone is very supportive and I have been learning a lot from them. I have shown a steady rise in my game since my first match on Jan 10, ” said Faid.

“In the last few matches, I realise my confidence level is on the rise too. When you play for a team like UniKL, expectations are high and there is pressure to perform well. When I make mistakes, the senior players are always there to guide me, ” said Faid, who had a four-month stint with Mariendorf Hockey Club in Berlin in 2017.

He made his MHL debut with UiTM in 2017 before joining Maybank in 2018. And he will be up against his old team on Wednesday before the big showdown with fellow leaders Tenaga Nasional.

UniKL and Tenaga are tied on 15 points after both won all their five games but Tenaga top the standings with a better goal difference.

Faid said he would be facing his old pals when they play the Tigers but was optimistic that they would collect three points.

“Our real challenge will be from Tenaga who have 13 national players. We need to beat them to stay on the right track for the title, ” said Faid.

The Star of Malaysia