News for 08 May 2009
Friday, 08 May 2009 09:25 | 
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All the news for Friday 8 May 2009
Sohail treble helps Pakistan whip Japan 6-3
By our correspondent
KARACHI: Pakistan gave their title hopes a boost ahead of a make-or-break Asia Cup opener against China by whipping Japan 6-3 in a practice match in Kuantan (Malaysia) on Thursday.
Comeback star Sohail Abbas gave Pakistan's preparations for the May 9-16 Asia Cup a shot in the arm by scoring a hat-trick in the high-scoring game against Japan.
Sohail, who last played for Pakistan in the 2006 World Cup in Germany, showed no signs of rustiness as he converted three of the four short corners earned by his team in what was its second and last warm-up game ahead of the seven-nation Asia Cup.
Pakistan, who have not won the Asia Cup since completing a hat-tick of titles in 1989 in New Delhi, defeated hosts Malaysia 2-0 in their first practice game on May 5.
The back-to-back wins should boost Pakistan's confidence which was running low following a poor outing in last month's Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh (Malaysia.) Pakistan lost to Malaysia, India and New Zealand and finished a poor fourth position in the five-nation tournament.
Against Japan, Pakistan's attack was in full flow with rookie striker Abdul Haseem Khan scoring a couple of goals to make his presence felt in the match. Haseem is a national junior team captain who has been inducted in the senior team to bolster its attack for the Asia Cup. Mercurial striker Rehan Butt, who is one of the four senior players recalled in the national team, also added his name to score-sheet by scoring a delightful goal.
Pakistan were leading 3-2 at half-time and then went on an all out attack in the second session to complete a big win against Japan.
The News International
Abbas return boosts Greenshirts confidence ahead of Asia Cup
KUANTAN, Malaysia: Record holder for most goals in the world, Sohail Abbas has boosted Pakistan's confidence to lift the Asia Cup, which begins here in Kuantan on Saturday (tomorrow).
Pakistan have also recalled three vastly experienced players - forward Rehan Butt, midfielder Waseem Ahmad and goalkeeper Salman Akhbar - in a bid to strenthen the team and seek an automatic berth in the 2010 World Cup in India.
All four players did not feature for Pakistan in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh last month, where Pakistan finished a disappointing fourth.
"This (Asia Cup) is a must-win tournament for us. We do not want to go through the qualifying phase if we can help it," said Pakistan chief coach Shahid Ali Khan in Kuantan on Wednesday. "The inclusion of the four players has strengthened the team considerably and gives us greater options.
"Our first step is to make sure we make the semis."
Pakistan will open their Group B campaign against China on Saturday (tomorrow) and a win will virtually seal their semifinal place. The following day they will meet arch-rivals India in the three-team group phase.
Pakistan beat Malaysia 2-0 in a practice match on Tuesday and will played another friendly against Japan here on Thursday.
Pakistan have won the Asia Cup three times - in 1982, 1985 and 1989. They finished second to South Korea and India in 1999 and 2003 respectively.
In the last outing - in Chennai in 2007 - Pakistan finished sixth. It was their worst-ever showing in the series.
"We will not look back, we must keep moving forward. This time the stakes are high. Every team will aim for win and teams like South Korea, India and even Malaysia pose a big threat to us," said Shahid.
"I want us to concentrate on our team and be ready for the first match. The target is to win the title. Nothing else matters."
Their opening match against China will show if Pakistan have what it takes to win the title because it was the Chinese who beat them in the fifth-place playoff in Chennai.
The News International
Pakistan beat Japan 6-3 in warm-up game
Staff Report
LAHORE: Pakistan defeated Japan 6-3 in a warm-up game before the commencement of the 8th Asia Cup at Kuantan in Malaysia on Thursday. The Asia Cup is starting on May 9. According to a spokesman for the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), Pakistan were leading the first half 3-2. Sharp shooter Sohail Abbas scored hat-trick on penalty corners, Abdul Haseem Khan scored two goals and Rehan Butt slammed one goal. Pakistan earned four penalty corners and three were converted. Pakistan will play their opening match of the Asia Cup against China on Saturday (tomorrow) and second match against India on Sunday.
The Daily Times
A boost as Jiwa gets top marks
By Jugjet Singh
THE National Sports Institute (NSI) conducted a fitness test on Jiwa Mohan yesterday and the player was declared fit to represent Malaysia in the Asia Cup which starts in Kuantan tomorrow.
Coach Tai Beng Hai selected 19 players yesterday and another will be dropped by the time of the team managers meeting today as two players, who were in rehabilitation, have shown tremendous improvement.
"The MHF (Malaysian Hockey Federation) invited NSI as a neutral party to conduct a fitness test on Jiwa and he passed in the excellent category," said Beng Hai.
"I have named 19 players because Tengku (Ahmad Tajuddin) and Razie (Rahim), who did not play in the Azlan Shah Cup, were impressive in the recent friendlies we played. I will decide on the final 18 just before the team managers meeting." Jiwa last played for Malaysia in the 2008 Azlan Shah Cup, and then called it quits to concentrate on his work in Australia. But he has been actively playing in the Australian Hockey League.
Malaysia open their campaign against World No 5 South Korea tomorrow before meeting Bangladesh and then Japan.
In Group B are Pakistan, India and China.
There were very few changes from the line-up which played to a silver medal in the Azlan Shah Cup.
"The players are at their best, physically and mentally, and with a semi-final target in mind we must start well against South Korea," said Beng Hai.
South Korea are the only Asian team in the Champions Trophy, while Malaysia will be playing in the Champions Challenge II in Dublin, Ireland on July 6-12. Eight teams will be playing in the Champions Challenge II. Malaysia are in Group B with France, Austria and Russia.
In Group A are Japan, Ireland, Poland an Chile.
"We need to do well in the Asia Cup, and also in the Champions Challenge II to improve our world ranking. I see the Asia Cup as a start to bigger things for this set of players."
If Malaysia make the semi-finals, their likely opponents will be India or Pakistan.
The squad: S. Kumar (goalkeeper), Fairus Wanasir (goalkeeper), Madzli Ikmar (skipper), Amin Rahim, Baljit Singh Charun Singh, Engku Malek, Jiwa Mohan, Shukri Mutalib, Shahrun Nabil, Nabil Fiqri, Kelvinder Singh, Razie Rahim, Jivan Mohan, Azlan Misron, Ismail Abu, Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin, Hafifi Hafiz, Chua Boon Huat, S. Selvaraju.
Fixtures -- Tomorrow: Group B: Pakistan v China (3pm); Group A: South Korea v Malaysia (5pm), Japan v Bangladesh (7pm).
Sunday -- Group B: India v Pakistan (5pm).
(All matches at Wisma Belia Hockey Stadium, Kuantan)
New Straits Times
MHF postpone naming of final squad for Asia Cup
By S. RAMAGURU
KUANTAN: The Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) trimmed the national squad from 28 to 19 players but failed to settle on their final team for the Asia Cup, which starts here tomorrow.
One more player will be omitted at today’s team managers’ meeting, which will be held at 3pm.
The team’s coaches said they were still undecided on their 18th player and would like to keep their option open till the last minute.
The MHF sprang a minor surprise when they picked goalkeeper Mohd Fairus Wanasir over former national junior Khairul Nizam Ibrahim. S. Kumar is still the top custodian in the squad.
Jiwa Mohan makes a return to the team while the previously injured Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin and Mohamed Razie Abdul Rahim are also in the squad.
The rest of the players had all featured in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh last month.
MHF deputy president Nur Azmi Ahmed said the team’s coaches had the final say in the selection of players.
“The coaches felt that they needed a little bit more time to decide on the 18th player. They will name the final team at the team managers’ meeting. We have a fairly balanced side and the return of Jiwa has given us more options,” said Azmi.
National interim coach Tai Beng Hai said they deferred naming the final 18 because they wanted to make sure they made the right choice.
“We had, in fact, made our choice on Tuesday but the performances of some of the players in the match against Pakistan have made us re-think some of our choices,” said Beng Hai.
“We just need a little more time and we should be able to name the team tomorrow (today).”
The only two players who seem safe for now are the two goalkeepers – Kumar and Fairus.
The Star of Malaysia
Men’s Asia Cup ready to start
The 8th Men’s Asia Cup Hockey Tournament will start on Saturday in Kuantan, Malaysia. Seven participating teams are divided in two pools. Pool A is composed by Malaysia, Korea, Japan and Bangladesh, while Pakistan, India and China will play in pool B.
In 7th Asia Cup which was held in Chennai, India, hosts India became the champion, while Korea was runner-up, Malaysia got bronze medal, Japan got fourth position, China on fifth and Pakistan was on sixth from eight teams.
The Manager of the Pakistan Hockey Team Muhammad Asif Bajwa said from Kuantan that Pakistan team is in good condition and moral of the players is too high after winning the warm up matches against Malaysia and Japan before the Asia Cup. He said that they are very much hopeful that Pakistan team will try to produce good results in this tournament.
On the first day on 9 May Japan will face Bangladesh, Korea will face Malaysia and Pakistan will face China. On 10 May, Pakistan will face India. On 11 May Japan will face Korea and Malaysia will face Bangladesh. On 12 May China will face India, Korea will face Bangladesh and Malaysia will face Japan. The crossed semifinals are scheduled on 14 May, while the final match will be played on 16th May.
Pakistan Hockey Federation media release
Asia's best clash for World Cup berth
MALAYSIA: Asia's top seven hockey nations, led by defending champions India, begin their quest for a place in the 2010 World Cup when the Asia Cup starts on Malaysia's east coast on Saturday.
The Indians, winners in 2003 and 2007 and in top form currently, vie with South Korea as early favourites for the title. However, Malaysia, former three-time champions Pakistan, Japan and China will put up a tough fight.
Only the winner of the May 9-16 event will gain an automatic invitation to the 2010 World Cup, which will be held in New Delhi.
Other hopefuls will have to ensure they finish in the top-five of the tournament, held in the Malaysian resort town of Kuantan, to earn a chance for a World Cup berth through the qualifying stage in November.
India as the host nation have already secured their ticket, but coach Harendra Singh brushed aside any thoughts of his team taking it easy in the tournament.
"We are here to win and nothing else matters. As hosts we are assured of a place in the 2010 World Cup. But we want to show that we are the top team in Asia. We want to earn our place as champions. So there is no question of us taking it easy," he said.
The Indians come into the tournament after having won the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Malaysia last month. They are the third-highest ranked in the tournament, behind South Korea and Pakistan, according to the International Hockey Federation's ranking.
Pakistan coach Shahid Ali Khan said his team are also ready to win the title they last won in 1989.
"We have recalled four players who were playing in the Netherlands, for this assignment. We want to win here to avoid going through the qualifying session in November," he said.
"I believe that we have a much stronger team than the one that played in the Azlan Shah Cup last month," he said, after Pakistan finished third in the event.
India, Pakistan and China are in Group B of the Asia Cup while South Korea head Group A with Malaysia, Japan and Bangladesh.
South Korea, the reigning Asian Games champions and two-time former Asia Cup champions, have a mixed team of youngsters and experienced hands.
"It will not be easy but I feel confident with this group of players. They showed up well in training and we can beat any team on our day. But our aim is to first make the semi-finals and go on from there," said coach Lim Jung-woo.
"I would rate Malaysia in our group as one of the contenders while India and Pakistan in Group B will pose a major hurdle as well," he said.
The Times of India
Which is the best Asia Cup?
K. Arumugam
Is it the inaugural edition when Pakistan won the hearts of home crowd, defeating then Olympic champions India? Maiden gold is always memorable and the Karachi Gold cannot go beyond this, and will remain memorable in the annals of Pakistan.
The Dhaka number in 1985 was good, but it is known for the Indian vandalism -- that resulted in the umpire being taken in a stretcher -- rather than the Gold that the Pakistanis retained in what was their own part of country (East Pakistan) a decade ago. Bangladesh was carved out of Pakistan in the mid 70s, that is, 22 years after Pakistan itself was made out of India.
Does it then Delhi qualify to be the best? Yes, certainly it’s best for Pakistan, all the more due to the fact that it came against Indian and on Indian soils. But it was not unique as Pakistan won both the Asian Games and World Cup in India in the decade earlier.
Koreans brought down the monopoly of India and Pakistan in a chilling manner when the event for the first time moved out of Indian sub-continent. At Hiroshima in 1993, Korea was the gold winner, Pakistan having been beaten in the semifinal and India in the final. Hiroshima more memorable for Koreans than for the chroniclers, as their men and women walked away with the titles. That was of course the last time both men and women editions were held simultaneously.
Hiroshima almost came close to be the best, but Kuala Lumpur six years later presented another climax, outwitting the Hiroshima feat.
Every match in KL1999 was intense. India was the reigning Asian Games champions. Korea were defending champions. Malaysia was the bronze winner at the Asian Games and therefore a lot was at stake for the Pakistan to improve their sagging morale. It was truly the first time it appeared there are four equal contestants. With four claimants backed with traditionally semifinal reaching Japan, KL1999 was by far the awesome field.
Korea ultimately won the Gold, and see how narrow and competitive and cliffhanger their journey had been.
India met India in the semis, and is not a surprise. What was of course was the match. Korea scored twice within five minutes. Even as the crowd thought the Indians are destined to be destroyed, Dilip Tirkey and captain Baljit Singh Dhillon equalized in the next ten minutes. Then India went up with a Deepak Thakur’s goals, only to be neutralized by Jeon Jong Ha. Then came the turn of Dhanraj Pillay, who was just recalled, did justice to his recall with a goal. But this lead was shortlived as Kim Jung Chul, who played our latest PHL, came with a trump to equalize. Even as the match was heading for the extra time, Sean Hawang Ji converted their fourth penalty corner to reach the finals.
Nine goals in the match, and what a game it was.
Do you know the highlight of the match? India, for a change, converted 3 out of 4 penalty corners. Don’t just rejoice. Korea converted four out of four.
If you feel, this Korean precision won the day, it was not easily so in the final.
The final played on 28th November 1999, turned out to be another thriller, the gold medal decided five minutes before the hooter.
This match again produced nine goals -- and the five belonging to the Koreans.
And it was not easily achieved. Pakistan was leading 4-2 after it converted its second and fourth penalty corners in the 25th and 42nd minutes, by Ali Raza and Asif Javed respectively. And then their defence of Sohail Abbas and Ali Raza did a tremendous job of not allowing Koreans to convert penalty corners, the leeway India was generously awarding a day earlier – and paying price for it.
Yeo Woon Kon broke the hoodoo and made use of their 10th penalty corner to bring the score respectable (3-4). Then Kan Keon Wook brought parity with a stroke and then the ever-green centre-forward Song Seong Tae, who is now with the Korean teams as co-trainer, posted a goal to take the Gold. And thus the fighting Pakistan had to be downcast and their wait for Asia Cup Gold had to wait – and the wait still continues.
One semifinal nine goals, and then the same winner posts another five goals to win a three time gold winner. I feel the 1999 number is best Asia Cup held so far. Where Korea learnt one lesson. Winning the Asia Cup is easy but not retaining it.
2003 was a good one, but it was for Indians as they won their maiden Gold. 2007 win was almost a cakewalk for the Indians. The Koreans were demolished 7-2 by the Joaquim Carvalho’s boys. It was a great day for Indian hockey, but not for Asian hockey, as one-sided games have been the Asian hockey’s bane for long.
Therefore, I vote for 1999 number, which Korea will also relish as another gold eludes them even though they played Olympics final a year later.
Let us see what’s in store in Kuantan. Till then time to relish KL 1999.
Stick2Hockey.com
Bras-tic measures
DNA Correspondent
Mumbai: After months of uncertainty and confusion, India finally have a foreign coach. DNA presents him a 7-point charter that could lead to the revival of Indian hockey.
Attacking hockey As Brasa himself concedes, India need to play skillful and attacking hockey because that is the best chance of beating top teams. He has to encourage building more attacks and the whole team will need to be galvanised for this.
Build a new wall Conceding goals, especially towards the fag end of the game, has been a point of concern. Fending off attacks proves crucial in big matches and the defence led by an ageing Dilip Tirkey has to be solid.
Penalty corner conversion Though Sandeep Singh gives hope with his drag-flicks, the test really will be against top teams. Converting penalty-corners is vital for any team to do well in the modern-day game.
Inspiration If India are to go up the rankings, they need to raise their game when playing against top teams of the world. Beating teams like Australia and the Netherlands even on the odd occasion will be a big challenge.
Back-up players The Spaniard may find it tough to find a second line, which is so important in a busy season, in a game as challenging as hockey. Rather than having new faces on a regular basis, the Indian team has been seeing a game of musical chairs in recent years. The team has to develop a set of core players for the long run.
Speed and accuracy It may not be easy to stretch established players on this count but Brasa knows that he will have to work on each player individually in order to work out what might be best for the team.
Consistency The team needs to be more consistent because only that will help it go up the rankings. Players like Arjun Halappa and Prabhjot Singh have done well but could help by being more consistent.
DNA
Hockey probables to be short-listed today
Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: National junior hockey players will be short-listed for the upcoming Junior World Cup on Friday (today). Chief coach Khawja Junaid told Daily Times on Thursday that the national selection committee would watch the performance of the players and then short-list them. As many as 36 players are currently undergoing training here at the Nasir Bunda Hockey Stadium for the world event to be held in Malaysia from June 7-21. Junaid said the selection committee would select 24 top players from the probables. “The team management is also expecting return of six players who are currently engaged with the senior team for the Asia Cup. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has decided to shift the national camp to Lahore for giving night practise to the players. “The whole event of the World Cup will be held under lights, so we have decided to give players a feel of floodlights at the National Hockey Stadium from May 15,” said a spokesman for the PHF. The second phase of the camp in Lahore will continue till the departure of the team for Malaysia in first week of June.
The Daily Times
Lloyd Stephenson retires from International hockey
Black Sticks midfielder Lloyd Stephenson (102 caps) has announced his retirement from the national team, ending a successful career spanning nine years.
Stephenson (27), debuted for New Zealand at age 19, in 2001 and had the satisfaction recently of reaching the coveted 100 cap milestone playing for his country during the recent Indian series in Auckland and Wellington.
National Coach Shane McLeod recognised Stephenson’s contributions: “Lloyd has always been consistent in his performances and has added something each time he has come into the team. Off the field, he has also always brought a positive attitude to the group.”
Stephenson has thought “long and hard” about his decision but believes it is the right one.
“I’ve been around for a long time. My plan from here is to seek a career in property finance and valuation in which I am qualified to do,” he says.
Stephenson’s career highlights are winning the World Cup Qualifier in China 2006, participating at the World Cup the same year, and winning the Olympic Qualifier at North Harbour in 2007.
“Playing for New Zealand has been the best experience in my life to date and the current squad has been a pleasure to be involved with. Their opportunity to succeed in the future is the best of any NZ team I have played for” he says.
Stephenson will continue to play in the National Hockey League for Midlands. The long-time North Harbour stalwart represented the region between 2001 and 2006 before transferring to Midlands in 2007.
Hockey New Zealand Media release
Black Sticks veteran Stephenson retires
Lloyd Stephenson has retired from international hockey after nine years in the national team, during which he earned 102 caps.
He made his New Zealand debut in 2001 and recently reached the coveted 100-cap milestone in the recent series against India.
The 27-year-old midfielder's career highlights were winning the World Cup qualifier in China 2006, playing at the World Cup that year, and winning the Olympic qualifier at North Harbour in 2007.
"Playing for New Zealand has been the best experience in my life to date and the current squad has been a pleasure to be involved with.
"Their opportunity to succeed in the future is the best of any NZ team I have played for," he said.
He planned to continue playing in the national league for Midlands.
Stephenson would now pursue a career in property finance and valuation.
Stuff
Wanderers rein in leaders Deacons
Craig Crozier
WANDERERS produced their most stirring display of the season to clip the wings of Men's Premier Hockey League leaders BNB Deacons at the Astroturf of the Garfield Sobers Sports Complex on Tuesday night.
The Dayrells Road side delivered a slick passing, strong tackling display that stifled Deacons' usually free-flowing style and earned a 3-2 victory that livened up the title race.
Wanderers got deserved reward for a confident first half when Dave Cox deflected home from close range eight minutes before the break after Donovan Smith and Anthony Trotman made the most of a penalty corner gone wrong.
But Deacons hit back immediately through Neil Franklin's well-placed drag flick from a penalty corner and the teams went to half-time level.
On resumption, Wanderers continued to be the more creative team, and Smith, like national teammate Franklin a lethal penalty corner specialist, put his side 2-1 up in the 43rd minute with a low flick.
There were chances for Wanderers to draw further ahead as Paul Rudder, captain Mark Owen and Andrew Payne found space in the "D" but failed to convert.
Fifteen minutes before the end, Franklin made Wanderers pay for their wastefulness as a sizzling drag flick made it 2-2.
That strike came during Deacons' best spell of the match, with Franklin later denied when another drag flick was saved on the line.
Wanderers were always threatening going forward and, after earning a late penalty corner, Smith supplied a dramatic winner with one minute left, another low flick securing a vital three points.
In the Women's Premier League, Deacons leapfrogged Vitamalt All Stars into third spot with a 2-0 victory in Tuesday's opening fixture.
Kim Hoyte opened the scoring after a well-worked penalty corner the 27th minute, while Annette Superville-McClean's crisp strike just after half-time sealed the victory.
The Nation
Sohail treble helps Pakistan whip Japan 6-3
By our correspondent
KARACHI: Pakistan gave their title hopes a boost ahead of a make-or-break Asia Cup opener against China by whipping Japan 6-3 in a practice match in Kuantan (Malaysia) on Thursday.
Comeback star Sohail Abbas gave Pakistan's preparations for the May 9-16 Asia Cup a shot in the arm by scoring a hat-trick in the high-scoring game against Japan.
Sohail, who last played for Pakistan in the 2006 World Cup in Germany, showed no signs of rustiness as he converted three of the four short corners earned by his team in what was its second and last warm-up game ahead of the seven-nation Asia Cup.
Pakistan, who have not won the Asia Cup since completing a hat-tick of titles in 1989 in New Delhi, defeated hosts Malaysia 2-0 in their first practice game on May 5.
The back-to-back wins should boost Pakistan's confidence which was running low following a poor outing in last month's Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh (Malaysia.) Pakistan lost to Malaysia, India and New Zealand and finished a poor fourth position in the five-nation tournament.
Against Japan, Pakistan's attack was in full flow with rookie striker Abdul Haseem Khan scoring a couple of goals to make his presence felt in the match. Haseem is a national junior team captain who has been inducted in the senior team to bolster its attack for the Asia Cup. Mercurial striker Rehan Butt, who is one of the four senior players recalled in the national team, also added his name to score-sheet by scoring a delightful goal.
Pakistan were leading 3-2 at half-time and then went on an all out attack in the second session to complete a big win against Japan.
The News International
Abbas return boosts Greenshirts confidence ahead of Asia Cup
KUANTAN, Malaysia: Record holder for most goals in the world, Sohail Abbas has boosted Pakistan's confidence to lift the Asia Cup, which begins here in Kuantan on Saturday (tomorrow).
Pakistan have also recalled three vastly experienced players - forward Rehan Butt, midfielder Waseem Ahmad and goalkeeper Salman Akhbar - in a bid to strenthen the team and seek an automatic berth in the 2010 World Cup in India.
All four players did not feature for Pakistan in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh last month, where Pakistan finished a disappointing fourth.
"This (Asia Cup) is a must-win tournament for us. We do not want to go through the qualifying phase if we can help it," said Pakistan chief coach Shahid Ali Khan in Kuantan on Wednesday. "The inclusion of the four players has strengthened the team considerably and gives us greater options.
"Our first step is to make sure we make the semis."
Pakistan will open their Group B campaign against China on Saturday (tomorrow) and a win will virtually seal their semifinal place. The following day they will meet arch-rivals India in the three-team group phase.
Pakistan beat Malaysia 2-0 in a practice match on Tuesday and will played another friendly against Japan here on Thursday.
Pakistan have won the Asia Cup three times - in 1982, 1985 and 1989. They finished second to South Korea and India in 1999 and 2003 respectively.
In the last outing - in Chennai in 2007 - Pakistan finished sixth. It was their worst-ever showing in the series.
"We will not look back, we must keep moving forward. This time the stakes are high. Every team will aim for win and teams like South Korea, India and even Malaysia pose a big threat to us," said Shahid.
"I want us to concentrate on our team and be ready for the first match. The target is to win the title. Nothing else matters."
Their opening match against China will show if Pakistan have what it takes to win the title because it was the Chinese who beat them in the fifth-place playoff in Chennai.
The News International
Pakistan beat Japan 6-3 in warm-up game
Staff Report
LAHORE: Pakistan defeated Japan 6-3 in a warm-up game before the commencement of the 8th Asia Cup at Kuantan in Malaysia on Thursday. The Asia Cup is starting on May 9. According to a spokesman for the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), Pakistan were leading the first half 3-2. Sharp shooter Sohail Abbas scored hat-trick on penalty corners, Abdul Haseem Khan scored two goals and Rehan Butt slammed one goal. Pakistan earned four penalty corners and three were converted. Pakistan will play their opening match of the Asia Cup against China on Saturday (tomorrow) and second match against India on Sunday.
The Daily Times
A boost as Jiwa gets top marks
By Jugjet Singh
THE National Sports Institute (NSI) conducted a fitness test on Jiwa Mohan yesterday and the player was declared fit to represent Malaysia in the Asia Cup which starts in Kuantan tomorrow.
Coach Tai Beng Hai selected 19 players yesterday and another will be dropped by the time of the team managers meeting today as two players, who were in rehabilitation, have shown tremendous improvement.
"The MHF (Malaysian Hockey Federation) invited NSI as a neutral party to conduct a fitness test on Jiwa and he passed in the excellent category," said Beng Hai.
"I have named 19 players because Tengku (Ahmad Tajuddin) and Razie (Rahim), who did not play in the Azlan Shah Cup, were impressive in the recent friendlies we played. I will decide on the final 18 just before the team managers meeting." Jiwa last played for Malaysia in the 2008 Azlan Shah Cup, and then called it quits to concentrate on his work in Australia. But he has been actively playing in the Australian Hockey League.
Malaysia open their campaign against World No 5 South Korea tomorrow before meeting Bangladesh and then Japan.
In Group B are Pakistan, India and China.
There were very few changes from the line-up which played to a silver medal in the Azlan Shah Cup.
"The players are at their best, physically and mentally, and with a semi-final target in mind we must start well against South Korea," said Beng Hai.
South Korea are the only Asian team in the Champions Trophy, while Malaysia will be playing in the Champions Challenge II in Dublin, Ireland on July 6-12. Eight teams will be playing in the Champions Challenge II. Malaysia are in Group B with France, Austria and Russia.
In Group A are Japan, Ireland, Poland an Chile.
"We need to do well in the Asia Cup, and also in the Champions Challenge II to improve our world ranking. I see the Asia Cup as a start to bigger things for this set of players."
If Malaysia make the semi-finals, their likely opponents will be India or Pakistan.
The squad: S. Kumar (goalkeeper), Fairus Wanasir (goalkeeper), Madzli Ikmar (skipper), Amin Rahim, Baljit Singh Charun Singh, Engku Malek, Jiwa Mohan, Shukri Mutalib, Shahrun Nabil, Nabil Fiqri, Kelvinder Singh, Razie Rahim, Jivan Mohan, Azlan Misron, Ismail Abu, Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin, Hafifi Hafiz, Chua Boon Huat, S. Selvaraju.
Fixtures -- Tomorrow: Group B: Pakistan v China (3pm); Group A: South Korea v Malaysia (5pm), Japan v Bangladesh (7pm).
Sunday -- Group B: India v Pakistan (5pm).
(All matches at Wisma Belia Hockey Stadium, Kuantan)
New Straits Times
MHF postpone naming of final squad for Asia Cup
By S. RAMAGURU
KUANTAN: The Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) trimmed the national squad from 28 to 19 players but failed to settle on their final team for the Asia Cup, which starts here tomorrow.
One more player will be omitted at today’s team managers’ meeting, which will be held at 3pm.
The team’s coaches said they were still undecided on their 18th player and would like to keep their option open till the last minute.
The MHF sprang a minor surprise when they picked goalkeeper Mohd Fairus Wanasir over former national junior Khairul Nizam Ibrahim. S. Kumar is still the top custodian in the squad.
Jiwa Mohan makes a return to the team while the previously injured Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin and Mohamed Razie Abdul Rahim are also in the squad.
The rest of the players had all featured in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh last month.
MHF deputy president Nur Azmi Ahmed said the team’s coaches had the final say in the selection of players.
“The coaches felt that they needed a little bit more time to decide on the 18th player. They will name the final team at the team managers’ meeting. We have a fairly balanced side and the return of Jiwa has given us more options,” said Azmi.
National interim coach Tai Beng Hai said they deferred naming the final 18 because they wanted to make sure they made the right choice.
“We had, in fact, made our choice on Tuesday but the performances of some of the players in the match against Pakistan have made us re-think some of our choices,” said Beng Hai.
“We just need a little more time and we should be able to name the team tomorrow (today).”
The only two players who seem safe for now are the two goalkeepers – Kumar and Fairus.
The Star of Malaysia
Men’s Asia Cup ready to start
The 8th Men’s Asia Cup Hockey Tournament will start on Saturday in Kuantan, Malaysia. Seven participating teams are divided in two pools. Pool A is composed by Malaysia, Korea, Japan and Bangladesh, while Pakistan, India and China will play in pool B.
In 7th Asia Cup which was held in Chennai, India, hosts India became the champion, while Korea was runner-up, Malaysia got bronze medal, Japan got fourth position, China on fifth and Pakistan was on sixth from eight teams.
The Manager of the Pakistan Hockey Team Muhammad Asif Bajwa said from Kuantan that Pakistan team is in good condition and moral of the players is too high after winning the warm up matches against Malaysia and Japan before the Asia Cup. He said that they are very much hopeful that Pakistan team will try to produce good results in this tournament.
On the first day on 9 May Japan will face Bangladesh, Korea will face Malaysia and Pakistan will face China. On 10 May, Pakistan will face India. On 11 May Japan will face Korea and Malaysia will face Bangladesh. On 12 May China will face India, Korea will face Bangladesh and Malaysia will face Japan. The crossed semifinals are scheduled on 14 May, while the final match will be played on 16th May.
Pakistan Hockey Federation media release
Asia's best clash for World Cup berth
MALAYSIA: Asia's top seven hockey nations, led by defending champions India, begin their quest for a place in the 2010 World Cup when the Asia Cup starts on Malaysia's east coast on Saturday.
The Indians, winners in 2003 and 2007 and in top form currently, vie with South Korea as early favourites for the title. However, Malaysia, former three-time champions Pakistan, Japan and China will put up a tough fight.
Only the winner of the May 9-16 event will gain an automatic invitation to the 2010 World Cup, which will be held in New Delhi.
Other hopefuls will have to ensure they finish in the top-five of the tournament, held in the Malaysian resort town of Kuantan, to earn a chance for a World Cup berth through the qualifying stage in November.
India as the host nation have already secured their ticket, but coach Harendra Singh brushed aside any thoughts of his team taking it easy in the tournament.
"We are here to win and nothing else matters. As hosts we are assured of a place in the 2010 World Cup. But we want to show that we are the top team in Asia. We want to earn our place as champions. So there is no question of us taking it easy," he said.
The Indians come into the tournament after having won the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Malaysia last month. They are the third-highest ranked in the tournament, behind South Korea and Pakistan, according to the International Hockey Federation's ranking.
Pakistan coach Shahid Ali Khan said his team are also ready to win the title they last won in 1989.
"We have recalled four players who were playing in the Netherlands, for this assignment. We want to win here to avoid going through the qualifying session in November," he said.
"I believe that we have a much stronger team than the one that played in the Azlan Shah Cup last month," he said, after Pakistan finished third in the event.
India, Pakistan and China are in Group B of the Asia Cup while South Korea head Group A with Malaysia, Japan and Bangladesh.
South Korea, the reigning Asian Games champions and two-time former Asia Cup champions, have a mixed team of youngsters and experienced hands.
"It will not be easy but I feel confident with this group of players. They showed up well in training and we can beat any team on our day. But our aim is to first make the semi-finals and go on from there," said coach Lim Jung-woo.
"I would rate Malaysia in our group as one of the contenders while India and Pakistan in Group B will pose a major hurdle as well," he said.
The Times of India
Which is the best Asia Cup?
K. Arumugam
Is it the inaugural edition when Pakistan won the hearts of home crowd, defeating then Olympic champions India? Maiden gold is always memorable and the Karachi Gold cannot go beyond this, and will remain memorable in the annals of Pakistan.
The Dhaka number in 1985 was good, but it is known for the Indian vandalism -- that resulted in the umpire being taken in a stretcher -- rather than the Gold that the Pakistanis retained in what was their own part of country (East Pakistan) a decade ago. Bangladesh was carved out of Pakistan in the mid 70s, that is, 22 years after Pakistan itself was made out of India.
Does it then Delhi qualify to be the best? Yes, certainly it’s best for Pakistan, all the more due to the fact that it came against Indian and on Indian soils. But it was not unique as Pakistan won both the Asian Games and World Cup in India in the decade earlier.
Koreans brought down the monopoly of India and Pakistan in a chilling manner when the event for the first time moved out of Indian sub-continent. At Hiroshima in 1993, Korea was the gold winner, Pakistan having been beaten in the semifinal and India in the final. Hiroshima more memorable for Koreans than for the chroniclers, as their men and women walked away with the titles. That was of course the last time both men and women editions were held simultaneously.
Hiroshima almost came close to be the best, but Kuala Lumpur six years later presented another climax, outwitting the Hiroshima feat.
Every match in KL1999 was intense. India was the reigning Asian Games champions. Korea were defending champions. Malaysia was the bronze winner at the Asian Games and therefore a lot was at stake for the Pakistan to improve their sagging morale. It was truly the first time it appeared there are four equal contestants. With four claimants backed with traditionally semifinal reaching Japan, KL1999 was by far the awesome field.
Korea ultimately won the Gold, and see how narrow and competitive and cliffhanger their journey had been.
India met India in the semis, and is not a surprise. What was of course was the match. Korea scored twice within five minutes. Even as the crowd thought the Indians are destined to be destroyed, Dilip Tirkey and captain Baljit Singh Dhillon equalized in the next ten minutes. Then India went up with a Deepak Thakur’s goals, only to be neutralized by Jeon Jong Ha. Then came the turn of Dhanraj Pillay, who was just recalled, did justice to his recall with a goal. But this lead was shortlived as Kim Jung Chul, who played our latest PHL, came with a trump to equalize. Even as the match was heading for the extra time, Sean Hawang Ji converted their fourth penalty corner to reach the finals.
Nine goals in the match, and what a game it was.
Do you know the highlight of the match? India, for a change, converted 3 out of 4 penalty corners. Don’t just rejoice. Korea converted four out of four.
If you feel, this Korean precision won the day, it was not easily so in the final.
The final played on 28th November 1999, turned out to be another thriller, the gold medal decided five minutes before the hooter.
This match again produced nine goals -- and the five belonging to the Koreans.
And it was not easily achieved. Pakistan was leading 4-2 after it converted its second and fourth penalty corners in the 25th and 42nd minutes, by Ali Raza and Asif Javed respectively. And then their defence of Sohail Abbas and Ali Raza did a tremendous job of not allowing Koreans to convert penalty corners, the leeway India was generously awarding a day earlier – and paying price for it.
Yeo Woon Kon broke the hoodoo and made use of their 10th penalty corner to bring the score respectable (3-4). Then Kan Keon Wook brought parity with a stroke and then the ever-green centre-forward Song Seong Tae, who is now with the Korean teams as co-trainer, posted a goal to take the Gold. And thus the fighting Pakistan had to be downcast and their wait for Asia Cup Gold had to wait – and the wait still continues.
One semifinal nine goals, and then the same winner posts another five goals to win a three time gold winner. I feel the 1999 number is best Asia Cup held so far. Where Korea learnt one lesson. Winning the Asia Cup is easy but not retaining it.
2003 was a good one, but it was for Indians as they won their maiden Gold. 2007 win was almost a cakewalk for the Indians. The Koreans were demolished 7-2 by the Joaquim Carvalho’s boys. It was a great day for Indian hockey, but not for Asian hockey, as one-sided games have been the Asian hockey’s bane for long.
Therefore, I vote for 1999 number, which Korea will also relish as another gold eludes them even though they played Olympics final a year later.
Let us see what’s in store in Kuantan. Till then time to relish KL 1999.
Stick2Hockey.com
Bras-tic measures
DNA Correspondent
Mumbai: After months of uncertainty and confusion, India finally have a foreign coach. DNA presents him a 7-point charter that could lead to the revival of Indian hockey.
Attacking hockey As Brasa himself concedes, India need to play skillful and attacking hockey because that is the best chance of beating top teams. He has to encourage building more attacks and the whole team will need to be galvanised for this.
Build a new wall Conceding goals, especially towards the fag end of the game, has been a point of concern. Fending off attacks proves crucial in big matches and the defence led by an ageing Dilip Tirkey has to be solid.
Penalty corner conversion Though Sandeep Singh gives hope with his drag-flicks, the test really will be against top teams. Converting penalty-corners is vital for any team to do well in the modern-day game.
Inspiration If India are to go up the rankings, they need to raise their game when playing against top teams of the world. Beating teams like Australia and the Netherlands even on the odd occasion will be a big challenge.
Back-up players The Spaniard may find it tough to find a second line, which is so important in a busy season, in a game as challenging as hockey. Rather than having new faces on a regular basis, the Indian team has been seeing a game of musical chairs in recent years. The team has to develop a set of core players for the long run.
Speed and accuracy It may not be easy to stretch established players on this count but Brasa knows that he will have to work on each player individually in order to work out what might be best for the team.
Consistency The team needs to be more consistent because only that will help it go up the rankings. Players like Arjun Halappa and Prabhjot Singh have done well but could help by being more consistent.
DNA
Hockey probables to be short-listed today
Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: National junior hockey players will be short-listed for the upcoming Junior World Cup on Friday (today). Chief coach Khawja Junaid told Daily Times on Thursday that the national selection committee would watch the performance of the players and then short-list them. As many as 36 players are currently undergoing training here at the Nasir Bunda Hockey Stadium for the world event to be held in Malaysia from June 7-21. Junaid said the selection committee would select 24 top players from the probables. “The team management is also expecting return of six players who are currently engaged with the senior team for the Asia Cup. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has decided to shift the national camp to Lahore for giving night practise to the players. “The whole event of the World Cup will be held under lights, so we have decided to give players a feel of floodlights at the National Hockey Stadium from May 15,” said a spokesman for the PHF. The second phase of the camp in Lahore will continue till the departure of the team for Malaysia in first week of June.
The Daily Times
Lloyd Stephenson retires from International hockey
Black Sticks midfielder Lloyd Stephenson (102 caps) has announced his retirement from the national team, ending a successful career spanning nine years.
Stephenson (27), debuted for New Zealand at age 19, in 2001 and had the satisfaction recently of reaching the coveted 100 cap milestone playing for his country during the recent Indian series in Auckland and Wellington.
National Coach Shane McLeod recognised Stephenson’s contributions: “Lloyd has always been consistent in his performances and has added something each time he has come into the team. Off the field, he has also always brought a positive attitude to the group.”
Stephenson has thought “long and hard” about his decision but believes it is the right one.
“I’ve been around for a long time. My plan from here is to seek a career in property finance and valuation in which I am qualified to do,” he says.
Stephenson’s career highlights are winning the World Cup Qualifier in China 2006, participating at the World Cup the same year, and winning the Olympic Qualifier at North Harbour in 2007.
“Playing for New Zealand has been the best experience in my life to date and the current squad has been a pleasure to be involved with. Their opportunity to succeed in the future is the best of any NZ team I have played for” he says.
Stephenson will continue to play in the National Hockey League for Midlands. The long-time North Harbour stalwart represented the region between 2001 and 2006 before transferring to Midlands in 2007.
Hockey New Zealand Media release
Black Sticks veteran Stephenson retires
Lloyd Stephenson has retired from international hockey after nine years in the national team, during which he earned 102 caps.
He made his New Zealand debut in 2001 and recently reached the coveted 100-cap milestone in the recent series against India.
The 27-year-old midfielder's career highlights were winning the World Cup qualifier in China 2006, playing at the World Cup that year, and winning the Olympic qualifier at North Harbour in 2007.
"Playing for New Zealand has been the best experience in my life to date and the current squad has been a pleasure to be involved with.
"Their opportunity to succeed in the future is the best of any NZ team I have played for," he said.
He planned to continue playing in the national league for Midlands.
Stephenson would now pursue a career in property finance and valuation.
Stuff
Wanderers rein in leaders Deacons
Craig Crozier
WANDERERS produced their most stirring display of the season to clip the wings of Men's Premier Hockey League leaders BNB Deacons at the Astroturf of the Garfield Sobers Sports Complex on Tuesday night.
The Dayrells Road side delivered a slick passing, strong tackling display that stifled Deacons' usually free-flowing style and earned a 3-2 victory that livened up the title race.
Wanderers got deserved reward for a confident first half when Dave Cox deflected home from close range eight minutes before the break after Donovan Smith and Anthony Trotman made the most of a penalty corner gone wrong.
But Deacons hit back immediately through Neil Franklin's well-placed drag flick from a penalty corner and the teams went to half-time level.
On resumption, Wanderers continued to be the more creative team, and Smith, like national teammate Franklin a lethal penalty corner specialist, put his side 2-1 up in the 43rd minute with a low flick.
There were chances for Wanderers to draw further ahead as Paul Rudder, captain Mark Owen and Andrew Payne found space in the "D" but failed to convert.
Fifteen minutes before the end, Franklin made Wanderers pay for their wastefulness as a sizzling drag flick made it 2-2.
That strike came during Deacons' best spell of the match, with Franklin later denied when another drag flick was saved on the line.
Wanderers were always threatening going forward and, after earning a late penalty corner, Smith supplied a dramatic winner with one minute left, another low flick securing a vital three points.
In the Women's Premier League, Deacons leapfrogged Vitamalt All Stars into third spot with a 2-0 victory in Tuesday's opening fixture.
Kim Hoyte opened the scoring after a well-worked penalty corner the 27th minute, while Annette Superville-McClean's crisp strike just after half-time sealed the victory.
The Nation