News for 16 May 2009
Saturday, 16 May 2009 08:02 | 
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All the news for Saturday 16 May 2009
Air Asia 8th Asia Cup 2009
China 3 Malaysia 3 (China win 4 - 3 on Penalty Strokes)
FINAL: Korea 1 Pakistan 0
Final Positions
1. Korea - Qualifies for the 2010 World Cup
2. Pakistan
3. China
4. Malaysia
5. India
6. Japan
7. Bangladesh
India finish 5th
K. Arumugam
India defeats Japan 5-1 to finish fifth in the Kuantan Asia Cup. India scored three goals in the last six minutes
Tushar gave a cross from the right in the 2nd minute, of which Rajpal Singh scored the first goal.
15 minutes later Prabhjot gave a cross, but Rajal could not do the same which did earlier, leaving a easy chance to go up.
Substitute player Hariprasad earned India's first penalty corner. Sandeep Singh flicked it towards the centre of the net to enlarge the lead in the 21st minute.
Sakamoto Hiroki knelt low to deflect a hit-in from left flank to reduce the margin in the 31st minute. Japan held upper hand in exchange of passes and attack, and is maintaining the tempo against the defensive Indians.
In the second half, despite India playing a very pathetic game, and has been defending all along, made their victory sure when Tushar latched on to a pass from SV Sunil and hit reverse even as falling, to enlarge lead to 3-1. This 64th minutes goal was followed by Prabhjot Singh's solo in the 66th minutes. Prabhjot who missed a couple of sitters after the lemon time, made amends by placing the ball to the right of onrushing goalkeeper. With just few seconds left in the clock, Tushar against made a reverse shot from near the same spot from where he earlier scored. The replay goal gave India a fashionable 5-1 victory.
Japan got a penalty corner in the 67th minute, but could not make a worthy shot as it was the case in the previous two penalty corners. India played a very dull and drowsy game today, and the scoreboard is flattering. This is first time India did not finsh within medals at the Asia Cup.
Stick2Hockey.com
India thrash Japan 5-1 to take fifth place in Asia Cup
KUANTAN, Malaysia: India took fifth place in the Asia Cup field hockey tournament when they defeated Japan 5-1 in the classification play-off here on Friday.
This is the first time the Indians, who were defending champions and also won the cup in 2003, finished outside the top four in the Asia Cup. The Indians, ranked ninth in the world, played below par but had enough in reserve to defeat the 11th ranked Japanese.
India found their goal scoring touch late in the game to walk off easy winners while Japan, having already booked their place in the World Cup Qualifiers in November, felt the result of the match was academic.
The Indians started off well when Rajpal Singh scored in the very first minute off a field goal and skipper Sandeep Singh made it 2-0 in the 21st minute when he flicked home from the penalty corner.
The match turned scrappy and a defensive lapse in the 32nd minute allowed Japan's Hiroki Sakamoto to score a field goal before half time and the second half failed to improve the performance level of the two teams although India had the better of the proceedings.
They finally scored the third goal in the 64th minute through Tushar Khandker and three minutes later Prabhjot Singh added the fourth goal from a field attempt. Khandker then added his second goal in the 70th minute for a flattering 5-1 win.
The final of the Asia Cup will be played on Saturday with Pakistan meeting South Korea.
The winner will also gain an automatic berth to the 2010 World Cup to be held in New Delhi, India. The third place play off will see hosts Malaysia against China.
The losing finalist, Malaysia, China and Japan have qualified for the World Cup Qualifiers which will be held in Lille, Auckland and Dubai in November. India have already qualified for the 2010 World Cup as hosts.
The News International
India beats Japan, finishes fifth
Kuantan (Malaysia): Striker Tushar Khandekar pumped in two late goals as defending champion India routed Japan 5-1 to finish a lowly fifth in the seven-nation Asia Cup hockey tournament here on Friday.
Khandekar (64th, 69th minutes) found the net twice for India, while Rajpal Singh (second), skipper Sandeep Singh (21st) and Prabhjot Singh (66th) scored a goal each for the winner. Sakamoto Hiroki (31st) was the lone scorer for Japan.
Though Japan had an upper hand in the exchange of passes and attack in the initial stages of the match, India found the net at will, scoring twice in the first half and thrice in the last six minutes of the second session.
Irrespective of the scoreline, India seemed nowhere near the best and its defence looked always under pressure.
Positive start
Having already made its exit from the medal race for the first time in the history of the tournament, India started on a positive note and gave Japan no time to settle down with Rajpal finding the net in the second minute off Khandekar’s cross from the right flank.
India asserted its authority in the midfield through Sardara Singh and Vikram Pillay and all the Japanese opponents could do was to mount sporadic attacks.
Rajpal had the opportunity to double the lead, but he squandered a golden opportunity after being fed by Prabhjot Singh.
Sandeep soon made it 2-0, scoring his fifth goal of the tournament with a fierce drag-flick after substitute Hariprasad had earned India’s first penalty corner.
Japan’s persistence finally paid off in the 31st minute when Hiroki deflected a hit-in from left flank to reduce the margin and go into the breather trailing 1-2. The Indians came into the second half with a defensive mindset and were happy staying back instead of going for the knock-out punch.
Khandekar then injected some life in the last six minutes of the encounter when his reverse hit from a S.V. Sunil pass sounded the board in the 64th minute.
Two minutes later, Prabhjot made the scoreline 4-1 with a solo effort. The veteran striker, who squandered a couple of sitters after the breather, made amends by placing the ball to the right of the onrushing Japanese goalkeeper.
Gem of a goal
Khandekar added one more to his name just seconds from the hooter with another gem of a reverse hit from inside the 15-yard area.
The result: India 5 (Rajpal Singh 2, Sandeep Singh 21, Tushar Khandker 64, 69, Prabhjot Singh 66) bt Japan 1 (Hiroki Sakamoto 32).
The Hindu
India whips Japan 5-1 to finish 5th in Asia Cup
KUANTAN: Tushar Khandker scored twice to help India thrash Japan 5-1 on Friday and secure a fifth-place finish in the Asia Cup.
In the play-off for fifth, India took less than a minute to open scoring through Rajpal Singh's field attempt at the Wisma Belia Stadium in Kuantan city in eastern Malaysia.
Captain Sandeep Singh's trademark penalty corner flick gave his team a 2-0 lead in the 22nd minute, but Hiroki Sakamoto reduced the deficit for Japan three minutes before half time.
Japan began the second half with a furious attacking pace but lost steam quickly, allowing India to seize control by scoring three goals in the final 10 minutes through Khandker in the 64th and 69th minutes and Prabodh Singh in the 66th minute.
South Korea and Pakistan will fight out Saturday's final, with the winner getting the only spot available in next year's World Cup in New Delhi.
China and Malaysia will play off for third on Saturday.
The Times of India
S. Korea and Pakistan to fight for ticket to World Cup
KUANTAN: Pakistan and South Korea will square off in the Asia Cup final today with only one thing in mind – a spot in next year’s World Cup in India.
That is the lucrative prize that awaits the winner of the Asia Cup final.
So far, it is two-time Asia Cup champions South Korea who have caught the eye here, especially their ability to change game plan during matches and their players’ good finishing.
South Korean coach Cho Myung-jun is confident of victory although he admitted to not having had adequate preparation and to not having several of his star players here with him.
“We have enough fire power to win the title. I am certain of that. It will all depend on the form of the players. If they play their part well, we will win the match,” said Myung-jun.
“Pakistan are a good side but we have beaten them more often in recent times. We hope to do it again.”
But the Koreans have one big problem going into the game. Their top goalkeeper Lee Myung-ho is reportedly injured and may be replaced by reserve Kang Seong-hwan.
But Myung-jun prefers to keep mum about the injury.
Pakistan coach Shahid Ali Khan, meanwhile, could not hide his delight when he learnt of Myung-ho’s injury, saying “if it is true (that their goalkeeper is injured), then we have a good chance of winning in the final”.
Shahid said that he was well aware of the Korean’s game plan. “They play and execute their moves with a high degree of commitment.
“We need to outsmart them and capitalise on whatever chances we get early.
“They are fast and can change their game at any moment. We have good individual players but we must keep out mistakes to a minimum,” said Shahid.
The odds certainly favour the Koreans but three-time champions Pakistan are an unpredictable lot.
So, it’s game on!
The Star of Malaysia
Forget loss to Pakistan and focus on China, boys
By S. RAMAGURU
KUANTAN: It won’t be easy but Malaysia will have to put that devastating 2-4 semi-final loss to Pakistan behind them when they face China in the third placing play-off of the Air Asia-Asia Cup hockey tournament today.
National interim coach Tai Beng Hai will have his work cut out for him to ensure that his men are mentally up for the challenge of equalling their 2007 feat of a third-placed finish.
And Beng Hai is confident that his men will not give up without a fight against China.
“Of course we are all disappointed (with the loss to Pakistan) but I can assure you that the players will be ready for China, who play a fast game and who will definitely be tough opponents,” said Beng Hai yesterday.
“We need to play our normal game and increase the tempo. For now we can’t make any major changes, so we will stick to our playing style here.
“I am sure we can beat China but the players have to stay focused.”
China’s forte here has been their speed and never-say-die attitude. They are also capable of scoring penalty corner goals.
Malaysia will need to slow down the pace of the game, hold on to possession and hit China on the counter attack.
Midfielders Mohd Shahrun Nabil and Kelvinder Singh also need to be more adventurous and join in the attack more often.
The defenders – Mohd Amin Rahim, Mohd Madzli Ikmar, Mohd Shukri Mutalib and Jiwa Mohan – look solid.
But it is the forwards who need to deliver. Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin, Azlan Misron, Ismail Abu, Chua Boon Huat and S. Selvaraju must seize the opportunities that come their way to kill off China.
The Malaysian players have good individual skills but do not combine well as a unit.
All said, Beng Hai’s men should just enjoy the game because they will still get to feature in the World Cup qualifiers even if they finish fourth.
Malaysia certainly have a team good enough to see off China’s challenge and finish on the podium.
This will give them the confidence to do well in one of the three World Cup qualifiers in November. (The World Cup will be held in New Delhi, India, next year.)
The Star of Malaysia
Coach hopes Sohail will click in Asia Cup finale
By Khalid Hussain
KARACHI: Pakistan are hoping that drag flick star Sohail Abbas will finally click in their Asia Cup final in Kuantan (Malaysia) on Saturday (today) after failing to really deliver in the initial stages of the seven-nation tournament.
The Greenshirts secured a date with South Korea in the final on the back of a couple of impressive performances in the tournament that helped them oust defending champions India and hosts Malaysia.
But team coach Shahid Ali Khan is fully aware that beating South Korea - Asia's number one hockey team - will be much more difficult than overcoming India or Malaysia.
The Koreans thrashed China 5-1 with an enviable ease in the semifinals and many experts are rating them as favourites for the title.
However, Shahid believes that if Sohail Abbas regains his brilliant best and the rest of his teammates also manage to rise to the occasion, then Pakistan will have excellent chances of regaining the Asia Cup for the first time after their 1989 triumph.
"Sohail might hold the key for us in tomorrow's final," Shahid told 'The News' from the resort town of Kuantan that is situated on Malaysia's east coast.
"He has so far been unable to find his best form but I'm confident that Sohail will click in the final," he said.
Sohail, who has returned to the Pakistan team for the first time after the 2006 World Cup in Germany, is yet to make his presence felt in the tournament.
Sohail, a former Pakistan vice-captain, is one of the four senior players recalled for the Asia Cup. While the other three - Rehan Butt, Waseem Ahmed and Salman Akber - have managed to justify their selection, Sohail has so far been unable to give the sort of performance that once made him the scourge of defenders all over the hockey world.
The comeback star was singled out as Pakistan's most potent weapon ahead of the Asia Cup but has so far scored just one goal - a match-winner - in his team's crucial 3-2 triumph over India in a Group B clash on May 10.
It is an unusually lean showing from Sohail, who holds the record for the highest number of goals in international hockey.
"Sohail is a big-match player and if he clicks in the final, we will be in a strong position to beat the Koreans," he said.
However, Shahid stressed that Pakistan cannot just rely on one or two players against a formidable team like Korea.
"It will have to be a united effort," he said. "We will have to better the sort of performance the boys gave against India and Malaysia," said the former Olympian.
Shahid has great expectations from his team mainly because the "boys have shown real flair and passion after a very long time".
"I haven't seen these boys playing so well in quite a long time," he said. "I mean they are really executing the game plan given to them. They have also shown great spark and that's a positive sign for us," he added.
Pakistan are hoping to win the title clash in a bid to confirm a direct spot for the 2010 World Cup in India. Only the team winning the contest will confirm its place in the World Cup while the next four will have to feature in qualifying rounds to be played later this year.
Shahid said that Pakistan, who adopted an aggressive strategy against Malaysia, will have to take the field against the Koreans with a different game plan.
"Against Korea we will need a very solid midfield," he said. "We should be much more composed because Korea can make you pay for your mistakes," concluded the coach.
The News International
Pak look to regain past glory with Asia Cup crown
KUANTAN: Ahmed Sultan I, king of the Pahang province in Malaysia has said that the local crowd in Kuantan will support Pakistan in their final match against Korea on Saturday.
‘We would like Pakistan to win the title after they beat Malaysia 4-2 in the semi-final,’ he said after offering Friday prayers at the mosque named after him.
‘Pakistan need this win and we would like them to emerge the winner in the final,’ he said.
Pakistan could be so near and yet so far as they prepare to clash with Korea under floodlights at the Kuantan Hockey Stadium at Wisma Belia. Three-time former Asian champions Pakistan, who won the crown under Hanif Khan in 1989 the last time, are eager to regain the title.
Meanwhile, chief coach Shahid Ali Khan attributed his team’s 4-2 win over Malaysia in the semi-final to their forwards’ scoring firepower.
‘It reminded me of our glorious past. It is also a good omen and I hope the players keep up the tempo in the final against Korea too,’ he told reporters at the Kuantan Hockey Stadium on Thursday night after his team qualified for the Asia Cup final for the first time in six years.
‘It was a fantastic effort and I am happy with the players’ performance. But we must win the final and regain our past glory in order to qualify for the World Cup which has been our main target all along,’ he pointed out.
Recalling the senior quartet of Salman Akbar, Sohail Abbas, Waseem Ahmed and Rehan Butt for national duty because of their vast international experience made a difference, he said.
Pakistan captain Zeeshan Ashraf also said that regaining the Asia Cup after 20 years is vital as it will provide a major breakthrough to the sport back home.
‘We have not won any major title in over a decade. So winning in Kuantan is very important and it will have a great impact on the future of the game in Pakistan,’ he said.
While talking about his team’s strenuous training session under the supervision of their Dutch trainer, he said: ‘The team has put in great effort and is deserving of a win. We will go all out in the final and rest is up to the Almighty,’ he commented.
He said success in crunch matches against India and Malaysia have boosted the team’s confidence. ‘Look at youngsters Haseem and Irfan. They played outstandingly,’ he maintained.
About world record-holder Sohail Abbas’s being unable to show his magic so far, Zeeshan said: ‘We are looking at Sohail to come good in the final.’
Experienced forward Rehan Butt, who hit a brace of goals in the semi-final against Malaysia, is looking to play a key role in the final too. ‘I have been part of the team for nearly 10 years and it’s my wish to go back home with the Asia Cup trophy,’ he said.
‘The Koreans are tough customers but the way we played in the last two matches, it looks like Pakistan is peaking at the right time,’ he said.
Rehan, who is playing his third Asia Cup and would like to play in next year’s World Cup in India, the Asian Games in China and the 2012 Olympics in London, said that it was the dream of the whole team to return home triumphantly.
Meanwhile, two Pakistani players Haseem Khan and Sajjad Anwar underwent dope test late on Thursday night.
The urine samples of both were taken as per the World Anti Doping Agency (WADA) and International Hockey Federation (FIH) ruling.
According to a WADA spokesperson, samples of two Malaysians (goalkeeper S. Kumar and Selvaraju Sandrakasi) besides Haseem and Sajjad, were also taken.
Overall, he said, six players have been tested so far till the semi-final stage of the competition. Haseem is leading the scorers list with three goals while Rehan Butt and Akhtar have scored two apiece and Sohail Abbas has one.
Shakeel Abbasi, who has always been a prolific scorer for Pakistan has yet to score in Kuantan.
The defence line which had been Pakistan’s main worry in the past has been boosted with the return of Waseem Ahmed, the experienced Zeeshan and Mohammad Saqlain and the fast-improving Sajjad.
Pakistan had been seriously troubled on counter-attacks but the Asia Cup saw them making a marked improvement.
On the other hand, 2006 Doha Asian Games gold medallists Koreans have won the title twice in 1999 and 2003 and they finished runners-up in the last event at Chennai in 2006 where Pakistan had finished a disappointing sixth.
Korea have not played Pakistan for a long time. The teams last met during the Champions Trophy in Kuala Lumpur in 2006 where they played a 3-3 draw.
On paper, the Koreans look like a far inexperienced team as only five of their players have played over 100 internationals. However, their tactics and strategy is remarkable.
Penalty-corner specialist Kim Byung Hoon is in great form with five goals off six short corners. You Hyo Sik with four goals under his belt and Lee Nam could pose as a major threat to Pakistan.
But statistics wise, Pakistan enjoys an edge over Korea as they have won 31 out of 38 games in Asia with five defeats and two draws.
Korea in comparison have won 22 out of their 35 encounters with seven defeats and six matches drawn.
The final of 8th Men’s Asia Cup between Pakistan and South Korea will be televised live on Pakistan Television at 5.00pm (PST)
Dawn
Live coverage of title clash today
By our correspondent
KARACHI: Hockey fans, who have been disappointed over the lack of television coverage of the ongoing Asia Cup, received good news on Friday when it was announced that PTV will provide live telecast of the event's final between Pakistan and South Korea on Saturday (today).
A Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) spokesman said that that the mouth-watering title-class between two of Asia's top teams will be televised live on Pakistan Television Home Channel this evening. The final will be played in Kuantan, Malaysia at 1730 (PST).
It was only after a last-minute effort from PHF president Qasim Zia which ensured that hockey fans in Pakistan will be able to see their team in action in the Asia Cup final, said the PHF spokesman.
He said that Zia, a PPP leader in Punjab and a former Olympian, contacted Federal Minister for Information Qamar-uz-Zaman Qaira in China and requested him for the live coverage of the final.
Qaira instructed Arshad Khan, PTV's Managing Director, to make arrangements for the live coverage of the match. The PTV management succeeded in signing a contract with a Malaysian TV channel for the rights to telecast the Asia Cup final in Pakistan.
The News International
'Winning Asia Cup vital for Pakistan hockey'
KUANTAN, Malaysia: Pakistan Captain Zeeshan Ashraf said on Friday that regaining the Asia Cup after twenty years is vital as it will give a major breakthrough to the sport back home.
"We have not won any major title in over a decade. So win here in Kuantan is very important and it will have great impact on the future of the game in Pakistan," he said.
"Win here will put our hockey back on the track. Team has put in a great effort here and we deserve to win. We will go all out in the final and rest is up to the Almighty," he commented.
"The way Akhtar Ali scored miraculously against China in last few seconds, we need same kind of luck in the final," he added.
Adding that the success in crunch matches against India and Malaysia have boosted the confidence of the boys which is an important factor.
"Look at the youngsters Haseem and Irfan they played outstandingly," he maintained.
He added that the return of senior players have boosted the team morale. "Return of Sohail, Waseem, Rehan and Salman has made big difference. They are experienced campaigners and contributed greatly in steering Pakistan into the final," Zeeshan having played 273 internationals, maintained.
He said world record holder Sohail Abbas was unable to show his magic so far but said his mere presence in the Pakistan put opponents under pressure. "We are looking at Sohail to come good in the final," he said.
Zeeshan said hiring of Dutch trainer has drastically improved the fitness of the team. "Fitness is very important and we are getting good results because of a fit squad," he said
He said full flow in his team's forward line has paved the way to reach the final. He however, admitted that winning and losing in the final will make a difference. "Look at the Pakistan's team they are now in the top two as compared to the sixth spot in previous Asia Cup in Chennai."
The News International
Rehan eyes key role in Kuantan success
KUANTAN, Malaysia: Pakistan's senior striker Rehan Butt wants to contribute in a big way to win the first hockey title for Pakistan in 20 years.
"I have been part of the team for nearly ten years and itís my wish to go back home with Asia Cup Trophy," he said on Friday. "Winning this title will provide a perfect platform for the revival of Pakistan hockey," said the 29-year old Rehan. "Koreans are tough customers but the way we have played in the last two matches shows that we are peaking at the right time," he said.
Rehan was bubbling with confidence because of the fact that the current lot of players has the potential to topple Korea.
He said youngsters are also playing well in the tournament and he was trying to pass on his experience and knowledge to the future players of Pakistan.
Rehan, who is playing his third Asia Cup, said that it is the dream of the whole team to go back home with the Cup.
He said playing in the Dutch League had helped him in polishing and further improving his game.
"It is played in professional manner and it helps you in getting better," he observed. He said he would like to play in next year's World Cup in India, Asian Games in China and depending on his form and fitness looking to play his third Olympics in London in 2012.
The News International
It is great to see team in final: Samiullah
KARACHI: Pakistan's legendary hockey player Samiullah congratulated Pakistan hockey team and its management for a brilliant 4-2 win over hosts Malaysia on Thursday in their Asia Cup semifinal in Kuantan, Malaysia.
"I congratulate the team and its management for such a good triumph. It is good to see that Pakistan has qualified for the final after being sixth in last Asia Cup," Samiullah told PPI. He said, "Senior players played as we hoped and expected from them. They didn't start well in the tournament but in the semifinal they performed brilliantly."
"I am happy that we have reached the final. It will be even better to see them bringing the trophy home. However, it will not be easy to beat South Korea as they are the best team in Asia and they have performed really well throughout the tournament," said Samiullah.
He added that Pakistan can win the final, but, for that Sohail Abbas and others have to be at their best and the defense must also play well as it did against the Malaysians. He said that the four seniors who had been recalled for the national duty played impressively. Penalty corner specialist Sohail Abbas, Waseem Ahmed, Rehan Butt and goalkeeper Salman Akbar joined the national team for Asia Cup.
"They (senior quartet) have been instrumental in the team's performance during the tournament. Haseem Khan has also been playing well," Samiullah added. Rehan Butt scored two goals, Haseem Khan and Akhtar Ali scored a goal each to lead Pakistan to victory in the semifinal against Malaysia.
The News International
Brasa ready to take bull by the horns
Harpreet Kaur Lamba
New Delhi, May 15: Jose Manuel Brasa is a busy man. The Indian hockey team crashed out of the Asia Cup tournament earlier this week, and the new coach is busy making plans to bring things back on track.
Two-time defending champions, India lost to Pakistan and then drew with China 2-2 to see their medals hopes go up in smoke.
Peeved by their performance, the Indian Olympic Association’s ad-hoc committee had asked the team to fly back home after their last match against Japan on Friday, but for Brasa’s intervention. The Spaniard forced the team to stay put in Kuantan, Malaysia, for an extra day to watch the final — and rectify what had gone wrong in the last one week.
Said Brasa from Kuantan, "I think we should stop being temperamental. India won the Azlan Shah tournament and were deemed the kings of the world. Now that we are out of the semis, it has made them the worst... I don’t buy that.
"India possess what no other hockey-playing nation can ever have. I have a firm belief that there aren’t better talented players in the world at present.
"And if you train them properly, they can become the best," he said.
"India are out of the Asia Cup, but the players are not bad. Even the coaches and the support staff are very knowledgeable. Indian hockey’s problems are ancient, and we definitely need a change in training methods," he opined.
On Saturday, as India beat Japan 5-1 to finish fifth, Brasa listed areas that had caught his eye and will need immediate action once he takes charge.
Weight of gold
"I observed that the players are not mentally free. Every time they take the field, they carry with them the weight of India’s rich history in hockey... those eight Olympic Games gold medals. It seems they are playing with a hand-brake on. The country, fans, the media expects a lot. What is gone is gone... the players need to get out of the mould and begin to think beyond."
Technology the new mantra
"I will give a small instance here. In any international match, the support staff of all countries gather at one corner to record the proceedings. Since the last many years, it is very easy to spot the Indian camera. Why? Because they use the oldest methods of technology. Videographers, computers, analysts are an integral part of modern hockey and we definitely need them."
Physicians need of the hour
"Pakistan’s first goal against India gives an insight into what is wrong. During the fist half, midfielder Sardara Singh received the ball from the half-line and was being chased by a Pakistan attacker.
"While trying to get past him, Sardara lost his balance and fell. This paved way for Pakistan’s first goal and eventually their win.
"In modern times, a physician teaches you to how to maintain your balance even if the ground is slippery. A player is incomplete without knowing how to make the best use of his body."
The Correct gear
"It was a sight to see the Indian players squeezing out the sweat from their match-shirts after the first half against China. The Chinese, on the other hand, wore jerseys made of a special sweat-absorbent fabric. Now how can a player carrying one kg of extra weight on his body outplay his opponent?"
Training the right way
"The Indian players are good, but only to last 60-65 minutes. They are effective when fresh, but do not have the stamina to sustain the pressure. Records show that India have conceded a goal in the last five minutes of the game on most occasions in the last few years. To put it simply, a 100 metre sprinter will struggle when asked to compete in the 800 metres. Long-term resistance will be one crucial aspect of training from now on."
Changes and more changes
"Lastly, hockey has changed. A country of 1,000 billion people will have to understand it. I think there still exists a mindset that if India does whatever they did during 1950-60, they will start winning Olympic golds. The earlier we stop believing it, the better.
The off-side rule is gone, optimum use of rolling substitutions is an art, as is proper training. It must be done during the camps and not on the pitch."
The Indian team will now assemble for their next camp in Bhopal after a month’s break. Brasa’s first priority is to collect state-of-the-art equipment from the Sports Authority of India, and then chart out plans for each player.
To begin with, he will hold a special presentation and video session with the team on Saturday, before the Asia Cup final between Pakistan and South Korea.
"My stint practically begins tomorrow. I have planned a special something for Day One. Till now the players saw videos prior to the matches. Now they will be told what to observe during a final game. The work has to begun soon," he said.
The Asian Age
Harendra says he was provoked into Pakistan remark
NEW DELHI/KARACHI: India's hockey coach Harendra Singh on Friday clarified that his remark about India-Pakistan bilateral series were torn out of context by two Pakistani journalists who deliberately asked provocative questions.
Harendra's purported remarks that hit headlines in the Pakistani media sparked strong reactions from the Olympians across the border.
The Olympians took exception to Harendra's reported remark that "India would rather go to war with Paksitan than play hockey."
Harendra said that he only said it was not for him to take a call on the India-Pakistan bilateral hockey series and it is for the government to decide. He did not say that 'India should go to war' as attributed to him in the Pakistani media.
Harendra said the exchange between him and the two Pakistani journalists took place when he was on his way to the media room and not at the press conference, after defending champions India lost to Pakistan 2-3 in the pool game of the Asia Cup.
Harendra said he had heated exchanges with the two correspondents as they used abusive language.
"I will not stand anyone abusing my country. The two Pakistani journalists kept using foul language to provoke me," said a furious Harendra.
"I don't care what they write, all I said to silence them was this is not the time to play hockey with Pakistan. In any case, they should have confined themselves to the match and the game instead of provoking me to say something unpleasant. The way the two reporters accosted me it appeared they came with an ulterior motive.
"The two reporters kept asking whether Indo-Pak bilateral series should be resumed and I said that it is not my call, it is for the government decide. They kept needling me, asking irrelevant questions."
Harendra's team was out of medal contention after their loss to Pakistan in a crucial Group B match and the subsequent 2-2 draw with China.
The Pakistani Olympians said the Asian Hockey Federation and the International Hockey federation (FIH) should take action against the India coach.
Veteran Munir Dar said he was disappointed as Harendra's remarks were against the spirit of sport.
"Sports and politics should not be mixed," said Dar.
"I was really disappointed over the remarks as Pakistan-India matches are keenly watched on both sides of the border and they should continue," he added.
Another Olympian Khawaja Junaid, who is the coach of the Pakistan junior team, said Harendra's statement was irresponsible.
"I am surprised that a person in such a key position could be so careless," he said. "He (Harendra) made those remarks during an international tournament and I believe that the AHF and the FIH should take action against him."
Indo-Pak relations were strained in the wake of last November's Mumbai terror attacks. India then refused to send its cricket team to Pakistan while in a tit-for-tat reaction, Pakistan advised its cricketers not to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
The two cricket teams have not played against each other since the Mumbai attack but Pakistani and Indian hockey teams have played each other twice in Malaysia in recent times. In the last month's Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh, India beat Pakistan and then went on to win the five-nation contest.
The Times of India
Senior Mens Squad Increased
The South African Hockey Senior Men’s Selectors have deemed it necessary to increase the number of senior players attending the National Men’s Training camp in Pretoria from the 25th to 31st May 2009 from the current 24 players to 28.
The following players will now join the squad at the training camp
Paul Blake
Matt Botha
Darren Kimfley
BJ Wilson
SA Hockey Association media release
Men's National Team: World Cup Squad Camp Trials
Following last month's successful campaign to win the Pan American Cup in Santiago and direct qualification to the 2010 World Cup in New Delhi, the Canadian Men's Team is formally initiating it's World Cup preparation.
Head Coach Alan Brahmst announced that the first project for the Champions of the Americas is a 4-day National Selection Camp scheduled for June 4 - 7 in Vancouver. Field Hockey Canada's objective for this camp is to identify the World Cup squad of 28-30 athletes, who will form the core group of players participating in the preparation projects over the next 10 months.
"The camp will be comprehensive with 15 hours of on-field activities and will include fitness testing and a technical capabilities evaluation. Tactical assessments will be performed as part of numerous inter-squad matches", said Brahmst.
"For Canada, as we move toward two significant competitions in 2010 we are looking to now design a younger squad, which will form the longer-term core of our National Team as we move toward London 2012 and then into the next Olympic cycle. Although performance in the short term is a top priority, we are looking for the right balance to sustain our success and continue our climb in world rankings beyond 2010."
The squad will be announced on June 9th before the athletes join the provincial team training phase, which concludes with the National Championships in Calgary from July 20-26th.
Field Hockey Canada media release
Ottley strike keeps Dames perfect
Tobias Ottley handed defending champions, Notre Dame a 1-0 win over Defence Force in a top of the table T&T Hockey Board Men’s Championship Division clash at the National Hockey Centre, Tacarigua, on Wednesday night. Ottley scored midway through the first half for the Dames, who were without regular captain Kwandwane Browne.
With the win, their fourth from as many matches, the Dames improved to maximum 12 points, three ahead of Defence Force, who had its three-match win streak snapped. On Tuesday at the same venue, Stag Malvern registered a narrow 3-2 win over the Dames in the Veterans Division.
For Malvern, Marcano-brothers, Albert and Anthony were both on target along with Geoffrey Wilcox, while Leon Ramdeen and Carlos La Caille netted for the Dames. Meanwhile, the T&THB will be hosting a Youth Development Tournament from 10 am until 2 pm today at its Tacarigua venue for primary schools.
The Trinidad Guardian
BJSS fight back to draw with BPSS
KUALA LUMPUR: Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS) staged a magnificent fightback from three goals down to hold Bandar Penawar Sports School (BPSS) to a 3-3 draw in the Malaysia Hockey League Division One match at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil yesterday.
BPSS, who lost to BJSS in the final of the MHL Under-19 competition on penalties last month, took the lead through Amir Farid Ahmad Fuzi in the ninth minute.
Mohd Hafiz Nawi (28th minute) and Mohd Rifhan Mohd Azhar (47th) then made it 3-0 for BPSS.
But Under-19 League and overall winners BJSS are made of sterner stuff these days.
Dangerous Lee started the fightback, scoring in the 54th minute. Then two goals in four minutes by Faridzul Mohamed (61st) and Arief Iskandar (65th) helped BJSS to share the points
The Star of Malaysia
Women’s hockey needs committed persons: LWHA secretary Zaib
Staff Report
LAHORE: Lahore Women’s Hockey Association (LWHA) general secretary Zaibun Nisa has said that women’s hockey in the country will only improve if concrete steps are taken at the grassroots level for the development of the game and by hiring committed and professional people to run the affairs of the sport. Talking to Daily Times here on Thursday, she said women’s hockey had gone to the dogs and there were a number of reasons behind it. “Foremost of which is negligence on part of previous regimes, which assumed the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) women’s wing from time to time but failed to take any practical steps for the betterment of women’s hockey,” she added. Zaib said for the last three decades the authorities had never paid much attention to women’s hockey. “But the present PHF setup, under Qasim Zia, has a number of targets for women’s hockey in their four-year programme. If they are successful in their targets then the future of women’s hockey seems bright,” she maintained.
She said she had a number of ideas for improvement of women’s hockey. “I have a plan ready with me for improving women’s hockey in the country. The plan can take the game to the top,” she claimed. Zaib, a former hockey player herself, said the PHF women’s wing should devise a standard syllabus for school-level girls involved in the game with refresher and basic coaching courses for the school teachers to form a pool of young players from different educational institutions. “Once these players reach the college and university level, they should be nurtured under the aegis of qualified coaches with an aim of helping them represent Pakistan at international level.” Zaib said in this way coaches, often former Olympians, would no longer have the excuse that players were lacking basics and therefore cannot be trained up to the mark.
Zaib said that due to insecure environment of the country there was little chance that foreign teams would visit Pakistan. “But this is a golden opportunity for the authorities to arrange provincial and regional matches to expand the pool of women players for selection in the national team.” She urged former Pakistan hockey legends to help the PHF improve the national sport. “My personal services are always on offer at every level and I ask all former greats to join hands for betterment of women’s hockey.” Zaib said she personally knew people who were willing to sacrifice for the betterment of hockey without any monetary expectations provided the PHF gave them due respect. “Such people hate the existing culture of the PHF which is based on discrimination and political interests,” she maintained.
Zaib said the women’s hockey selection committee could no longer afford to sideline talented players solely in order to facilitate nepotism because such practise was a major factor behind the national team’s dismal performance in competitive tournaments. “In 2008, Rukhsana Shaukat was declared the best player of an Under-16 event yet when the time came for selecting the Pakistan junior team, she was not even considered for the trials. Other ignored names are Maria Muhammad and Ayesha Rafique. Also Amna and Ayesha Arif, having represented Pakistan in the past, are no longer in the picture for unknown reasons.”
Zaib said that women coaches must be prepared and promoted at both national and international level in order to supervise Under-13, Under-15 and Under-17 girls camps, mostly looked after by male personnel. She emphasised the necessity of fund raising programmes for the benefit of players. “The PHF should arrange visits of former hockey greats to schools and colleges in order to inspire young minds and provide them with role models,” she concluded.
The Daily Times
Air Asia 8th Asia Cup 2009
China 3 Malaysia 3 (China win 4 - 3 on Penalty Strokes)
FINAL: Korea 1 Pakistan 0
Final Positions
1. Korea - Qualifies for the 2010 World Cup
2. Pakistan
3. China
4. Malaysia
5. India
6. Japan
7. Bangladesh
India finish 5th
K. Arumugam
India defeats Japan 5-1 to finish fifth in the Kuantan Asia Cup. India scored three goals in the last six minutes
Tushar gave a cross from the right in the 2nd minute, of which Rajpal Singh scored the first goal.
15 minutes later Prabhjot gave a cross, but Rajal could not do the same which did earlier, leaving a easy chance to go up.
Substitute player Hariprasad earned India's first penalty corner. Sandeep Singh flicked it towards the centre of the net to enlarge the lead in the 21st minute.
Sakamoto Hiroki knelt low to deflect a hit-in from left flank to reduce the margin in the 31st minute. Japan held upper hand in exchange of passes and attack, and is maintaining the tempo against the defensive Indians.
In the second half, despite India playing a very pathetic game, and has been defending all along, made their victory sure when Tushar latched on to a pass from SV Sunil and hit reverse even as falling, to enlarge lead to 3-1. This 64th minutes goal was followed by Prabhjot Singh's solo in the 66th minutes. Prabhjot who missed a couple of sitters after the lemon time, made amends by placing the ball to the right of onrushing goalkeeper. With just few seconds left in the clock, Tushar against made a reverse shot from near the same spot from where he earlier scored. The replay goal gave India a fashionable 5-1 victory.
Japan got a penalty corner in the 67th minute, but could not make a worthy shot as it was the case in the previous two penalty corners. India played a very dull and drowsy game today, and the scoreboard is flattering. This is first time India did not finsh within medals at the Asia Cup.
Stick2Hockey.com
India thrash Japan 5-1 to take fifth place in Asia Cup
KUANTAN, Malaysia: India took fifth place in the Asia Cup field hockey tournament when they defeated Japan 5-1 in the classification play-off here on Friday.
This is the first time the Indians, who were defending champions and also won the cup in 2003, finished outside the top four in the Asia Cup. The Indians, ranked ninth in the world, played below par but had enough in reserve to defeat the 11th ranked Japanese.
India found their goal scoring touch late in the game to walk off easy winners while Japan, having already booked their place in the World Cup Qualifiers in November, felt the result of the match was academic.
The Indians started off well when Rajpal Singh scored in the very first minute off a field goal and skipper Sandeep Singh made it 2-0 in the 21st minute when he flicked home from the penalty corner.
The match turned scrappy and a defensive lapse in the 32nd minute allowed Japan's Hiroki Sakamoto to score a field goal before half time and the second half failed to improve the performance level of the two teams although India had the better of the proceedings.
They finally scored the third goal in the 64th minute through Tushar Khandker and three minutes later Prabhjot Singh added the fourth goal from a field attempt. Khandker then added his second goal in the 70th minute for a flattering 5-1 win.
The final of the Asia Cup will be played on Saturday with Pakistan meeting South Korea.
The winner will also gain an automatic berth to the 2010 World Cup to be held in New Delhi, India. The third place play off will see hosts Malaysia against China.
The losing finalist, Malaysia, China and Japan have qualified for the World Cup Qualifiers which will be held in Lille, Auckland and Dubai in November. India have already qualified for the 2010 World Cup as hosts.
The News International
India beats Japan, finishes fifth
Kuantan (Malaysia): Striker Tushar Khandekar pumped in two late goals as defending champion India routed Japan 5-1 to finish a lowly fifth in the seven-nation Asia Cup hockey tournament here on Friday.
Khandekar (64th, 69th minutes) found the net twice for India, while Rajpal Singh (second), skipper Sandeep Singh (21st) and Prabhjot Singh (66th) scored a goal each for the winner. Sakamoto Hiroki (31st) was the lone scorer for Japan.
Though Japan had an upper hand in the exchange of passes and attack in the initial stages of the match, India found the net at will, scoring twice in the first half and thrice in the last six minutes of the second session.
Irrespective of the scoreline, India seemed nowhere near the best and its defence looked always under pressure.
Positive start
Having already made its exit from the medal race for the first time in the history of the tournament, India started on a positive note and gave Japan no time to settle down with Rajpal finding the net in the second minute off Khandekar’s cross from the right flank.
India asserted its authority in the midfield through Sardara Singh and Vikram Pillay and all the Japanese opponents could do was to mount sporadic attacks.
Rajpal had the opportunity to double the lead, but he squandered a golden opportunity after being fed by Prabhjot Singh.
Sandeep soon made it 2-0, scoring his fifth goal of the tournament with a fierce drag-flick after substitute Hariprasad had earned India’s first penalty corner.
Japan’s persistence finally paid off in the 31st minute when Hiroki deflected a hit-in from left flank to reduce the margin and go into the breather trailing 1-2. The Indians came into the second half with a defensive mindset and were happy staying back instead of going for the knock-out punch.
Khandekar then injected some life in the last six minutes of the encounter when his reverse hit from a S.V. Sunil pass sounded the board in the 64th minute.
Two minutes later, Prabhjot made the scoreline 4-1 with a solo effort. The veteran striker, who squandered a couple of sitters after the breather, made amends by placing the ball to the right of the onrushing Japanese goalkeeper.
Gem of a goal
Khandekar added one more to his name just seconds from the hooter with another gem of a reverse hit from inside the 15-yard area.
The result: India 5 (Rajpal Singh 2, Sandeep Singh 21, Tushar Khandker 64, 69, Prabhjot Singh 66) bt Japan 1 (Hiroki Sakamoto 32).
The Hindu
India whips Japan 5-1 to finish 5th in Asia Cup
KUANTAN: Tushar Khandker scored twice to help India thrash Japan 5-1 on Friday and secure a fifth-place finish in the Asia Cup.
In the play-off for fifth, India took less than a minute to open scoring through Rajpal Singh's field attempt at the Wisma Belia Stadium in Kuantan city in eastern Malaysia.
Captain Sandeep Singh's trademark penalty corner flick gave his team a 2-0 lead in the 22nd minute, but Hiroki Sakamoto reduced the deficit for Japan three minutes before half time.
Japan began the second half with a furious attacking pace but lost steam quickly, allowing India to seize control by scoring three goals in the final 10 minutes through Khandker in the 64th and 69th minutes and Prabodh Singh in the 66th minute.
South Korea and Pakistan will fight out Saturday's final, with the winner getting the only spot available in next year's World Cup in New Delhi.
China and Malaysia will play off for third on Saturday.
The Times of India
S. Korea and Pakistan to fight for ticket to World Cup
KUANTAN: Pakistan and South Korea will square off in the Asia Cup final today with only one thing in mind – a spot in next year’s World Cup in India.
That is the lucrative prize that awaits the winner of the Asia Cup final.
So far, it is two-time Asia Cup champions South Korea who have caught the eye here, especially their ability to change game plan during matches and their players’ good finishing.
South Korean coach Cho Myung-jun is confident of victory although he admitted to not having had adequate preparation and to not having several of his star players here with him.
“We have enough fire power to win the title. I am certain of that. It will all depend on the form of the players. If they play their part well, we will win the match,” said Myung-jun.
“Pakistan are a good side but we have beaten them more often in recent times. We hope to do it again.”
But the Koreans have one big problem going into the game. Their top goalkeeper Lee Myung-ho is reportedly injured and may be replaced by reserve Kang Seong-hwan.
But Myung-jun prefers to keep mum about the injury.
Pakistan coach Shahid Ali Khan, meanwhile, could not hide his delight when he learnt of Myung-ho’s injury, saying “if it is true (that their goalkeeper is injured), then we have a good chance of winning in the final”.
Shahid said that he was well aware of the Korean’s game plan. “They play and execute their moves with a high degree of commitment.
“We need to outsmart them and capitalise on whatever chances we get early.
“They are fast and can change their game at any moment. We have good individual players but we must keep out mistakes to a minimum,” said Shahid.
The odds certainly favour the Koreans but three-time champions Pakistan are an unpredictable lot.
So, it’s game on!
The Star of Malaysia
Forget loss to Pakistan and focus on China, boys
By S. RAMAGURU
KUANTAN: It won’t be easy but Malaysia will have to put that devastating 2-4 semi-final loss to Pakistan behind them when they face China in the third placing play-off of the Air Asia-Asia Cup hockey tournament today.
National interim coach Tai Beng Hai will have his work cut out for him to ensure that his men are mentally up for the challenge of equalling their 2007 feat of a third-placed finish.
And Beng Hai is confident that his men will not give up without a fight against China.
“Of course we are all disappointed (with the loss to Pakistan) but I can assure you that the players will be ready for China, who play a fast game and who will definitely be tough opponents,” said Beng Hai yesterday.
“We need to play our normal game and increase the tempo. For now we can’t make any major changes, so we will stick to our playing style here.
“I am sure we can beat China but the players have to stay focused.”
China’s forte here has been their speed and never-say-die attitude. They are also capable of scoring penalty corner goals.
Malaysia will need to slow down the pace of the game, hold on to possession and hit China on the counter attack.
Midfielders Mohd Shahrun Nabil and Kelvinder Singh also need to be more adventurous and join in the attack more often.
The defenders – Mohd Amin Rahim, Mohd Madzli Ikmar, Mohd Shukri Mutalib and Jiwa Mohan – look solid.
But it is the forwards who need to deliver. Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin, Azlan Misron, Ismail Abu, Chua Boon Huat and S. Selvaraju must seize the opportunities that come their way to kill off China.
The Malaysian players have good individual skills but do not combine well as a unit.
All said, Beng Hai’s men should just enjoy the game because they will still get to feature in the World Cup qualifiers even if they finish fourth.
Malaysia certainly have a team good enough to see off China’s challenge and finish on the podium.
This will give them the confidence to do well in one of the three World Cup qualifiers in November. (The World Cup will be held in New Delhi, India, next year.)
The Star of Malaysia
Coach hopes Sohail will click in Asia Cup finale
By Khalid Hussain
KARACHI: Pakistan are hoping that drag flick star Sohail Abbas will finally click in their Asia Cup final in Kuantan (Malaysia) on Saturday (today) after failing to really deliver in the initial stages of the seven-nation tournament.
The Greenshirts secured a date with South Korea in the final on the back of a couple of impressive performances in the tournament that helped them oust defending champions India and hosts Malaysia.
But team coach Shahid Ali Khan is fully aware that beating South Korea - Asia's number one hockey team - will be much more difficult than overcoming India or Malaysia.
The Koreans thrashed China 5-1 with an enviable ease in the semifinals and many experts are rating them as favourites for the title.
However, Shahid believes that if Sohail Abbas regains his brilliant best and the rest of his teammates also manage to rise to the occasion, then Pakistan will have excellent chances of regaining the Asia Cup for the first time after their 1989 triumph.
"Sohail might hold the key for us in tomorrow's final," Shahid told 'The News' from the resort town of Kuantan that is situated on Malaysia's east coast.
"He has so far been unable to find his best form but I'm confident that Sohail will click in the final," he said.
Sohail, who has returned to the Pakistan team for the first time after the 2006 World Cup in Germany, is yet to make his presence felt in the tournament.
Sohail, a former Pakistan vice-captain, is one of the four senior players recalled for the Asia Cup. While the other three - Rehan Butt, Waseem Ahmed and Salman Akber - have managed to justify their selection, Sohail has so far been unable to give the sort of performance that once made him the scourge of defenders all over the hockey world.
The comeback star was singled out as Pakistan's most potent weapon ahead of the Asia Cup but has so far scored just one goal - a match-winner - in his team's crucial 3-2 triumph over India in a Group B clash on May 10.
It is an unusually lean showing from Sohail, who holds the record for the highest number of goals in international hockey.
"Sohail is a big-match player and if he clicks in the final, we will be in a strong position to beat the Koreans," he said.
However, Shahid stressed that Pakistan cannot just rely on one or two players against a formidable team like Korea.
"It will have to be a united effort," he said. "We will have to better the sort of performance the boys gave against India and Malaysia," said the former Olympian.
Shahid has great expectations from his team mainly because the "boys have shown real flair and passion after a very long time".
"I haven't seen these boys playing so well in quite a long time," he said. "I mean they are really executing the game plan given to them. They have also shown great spark and that's a positive sign for us," he added.
Pakistan are hoping to win the title clash in a bid to confirm a direct spot for the 2010 World Cup in India. Only the team winning the contest will confirm its place in the World Cup while the next four will have to feature in qualifying rounds to be played later this year.
Shahid said that Pakistan, who adopted an aggressive strategy against Malaysia, will have to take the field against the Koreans with a different game plan.
"Against Korea we will need a very solid midfield," he said. "We should be much more composed because Korea can make you pay for your mistakes," concluded the coach.
The News International
Pak look to regain past glory with Asia Cup crown
KUANTAN: Ahmed Sultan I, king of the Pahang province in Malaysia has said that the local crowd in Kuantan will support Pakistan in their final match against Korea on Saturday.
‘We would like Pakistan to win the title after they beat Malaysia 4-2 in the semi-final,’ he said after offering Friday prayers at the mosque named after him.
‘Pakistan need this win and we would like them to emerge the winner in the final,’ he said.
Pakistan could be so near and yet so far as they prepare to clash with Korea under floodlights at the Kuantan Hockey Stadium at Wisma Belia. Three-time former Asian champions Pakistan, who won the crown under Hanif Khan in 1989 the last time, are eager to regain the title.
Meanwhile, chief coach Shahid Ali Khan attributed his team’s 4-2 win over Malaysia in the semi-final to their forwards’ scoring firepower.
‘It reminded me of our glorious past. It is also a good omen and I hope the players keep up the tempo in the final against Korea too,’ he told reporters at the Kuantan Hockey Stadium on Thursday night after his team qualified for the Asia Cup final for the first time in six years.
‘It was a fantastic effort and I am happy with the players’ performance. But we must win the final and regain our past glory in order to qualify for the World Cup which has been our main target all along,’ he pointed out.
Recalling the senior quartet of Salman Akbar, Sohail Abbas, Waseem Ahmed and Rehan Butt for national duty because of their vast international experience made a difference, he said.
Pakistan captain Zeeshan Ashraf also said that regaining the Asia Cup after 20 years is vital as it will provide a major breakthrough to the sport back home.
‘We have not won any major title in over a decade. So winning in Kuantan is very important and it will have a great impact on the future of the game in Pakistan,’ he said.
While talking about his team’s strenuous training session under the supervision of their Dutch trainer, he said: ‘The team has put in great effort and is deserving of a win. We will go all out in the final and rest is up to the Almighty,’ he commented.
He said success in crunch matches against India and Malaysia have boosted the team’s confidence. ‘Look at youngsters Haseem and Irfan. They played outstandingly,’ he maintained.
About world record-holder Sohail Abbas’s being unable to show his magic so far, Zeeshan said: ‘We are looking at Sohail to come good in the final.’
Experienced forward Rehan Butt, who hit a brace of goals in the semi-final against Malaysia, is looking to play a key role in the final too. ‘I have been part of the team for nearly 10 years and it’s my wish to go back home with the Asia Cup trophy,’ he said.
‘The Koreans are tough customers but the way we played in the last two matches, it looks like Pakistan is peaking at the right time,’ he said.
Rehan, who is playing his third Asia Cup and would like to play in next year’s World Cup in India, the Asian Games in China and the 2012 Olympics in London, said that it was the dream of the whole team to return home triumphantly.
Meanwhile, two Pakistani players Haseem Khan and Sajjad Anwar underwent dope test late on Thursday night.
The urine samples of both were taken as per the World Anti Doping Agency (WADA) and International Hockey Federation (FIH) ruling.
According to a WADA spokesperson, samples of two Malaysians (goalkeeper S. Kumar and Selvaraju Sandrakasi) besides Haseem and Sajjad, were also taken.
Overall, he said, six players have been tested so far till the semi-final stage of the competition. Haseem is leading the scorers list with three goals while Rehan Butt and Akhtar have scored two apiece and Sohail Abbas has one.
Shakeel Abbasi, who has always been a prolific scorer for Pakistan has yet to score in Kuantan.
The defence line which had been Pakistan’s main worry in the past has been boosted with the return of Waseem Ahmed, the experienced Zeeshan and Mohammad Saqlain and the fast-improving Sajjad.
Pakistan had been seriously troubled on counter-attacks but the Asia Cup saw them making a marked improvement.
On the other hand, 2006 Doha Asian Games gold medallists Koreans have won the title twice in 1999 and 2003 and they finished runners-up in the last event at Chennai in 2006 where Pakistan had finished a disappointing sixth.
Korea have not played Pakistan for a long time. The teams last met during the Champions Trophy in Kuala Lumpur in 2006 where they played a 3-3 draw.
On paper, the Koreans look like a far inexperienced team as only five of their players have played over 100 internationals. However, their tactics and strategy is remarkable.
Penalty-corner specialist Kim Byung Hoon is in great form with five goals off six short corners. You Hyo Sik with four goals under his belt and Lee Nam could pose as a major threat to Pakistan.
But statistics wise, Pakistan enjoys an edge over Korea as they have won 31 out of 38 games in Asia with five defeats and two draws.
Korea in comparison have won 22 out of their 35 encounters with seven defeats and six matches drawn.
The final of 8th Men’s Asia Cup between Pakistan and South Korea will be televised live on Pakistan Television at 5.00pm (PST)
Dawn
Live coverage of title clash today
By our correspondent
KARACHI: Hockey fans, who have been disappointed over the lack of television coverage of the ongoing Asia Cup, received good news on Friday when it was announced that PTV will provide live telecast of the event's final between Pakistan and South Korea on Saturday (today).
A Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) spokesman said that that the mouth-watering title-class between two of Asia's top teams will be televised live on Pakistan Television Home Channel this evening. The final will be played in Kuantan, Malaysia at 1730 (PST).
It was only after a last-minute effort from PHF president Qasim Zia which ensured that hockey fans in Pakistan will be able to see their team in action in the Asia Cup final, said the PHF spokesman.
He said that Zia, a PPP leader in Punjab and a former Olympian, contacted Federal Minister for Information Qamar-uz-Zaman Qaira in China and requested him for the live coverage of the final.
Qaira instructed Arshad Khan, PTV's Managing Director, to make arrangements for the live coverage of the match. The PTV management succeeded in signing a contract with a Malaysian TV channel for the rights to telecast the Asia Cup final in Pakistan.
The News International
'Winning Asia Cup vital for Pakistan hockey'
KUANTAN, Malaysia: Pakistan Captain Zeeshan Ashraf said on Friday that regaining the Asia Cup after twenty years is vital as it will give a major breakthrough to the sport back home.
"We have not won any major title in over a decade. So win here in Kuantan is very important and it will have great impact on the future of the game in Pakistan," he said.
"Win here will put our hockey back on the track. Team has put in a great effort here and we deserve to win. We will go all out in the final and rest is up to the Almighty," he commented.
"The way Akhtar Ali scored miraculously against China in last few seconds, we need same kind of luck in the final," he added.
Adding that the success in crunch matches against India and Malaysia have boosted the confidence of the boys which is an important factor.
"Look at the youngsters Haseem and Irfan they played outstandingly," he maintained.
He added that the return of senior players have boosted the team morale. "Return of Sohail, Waseem, Rehan and Salman has made big difference. They are experienced campaigners and contributed greatly in steering Pakistan into the final," Zeeshan having played 273 internationals, maintained.
He said world record holder Sohail Abbas was unable to show his magic so far but said his mere presence in the Pakistan put opponents under pressure. "We are looking at Sohail to come good in the final," he said.
Zeeshan said hiring of Dutch trainer has drastically improved the fitness of the team. "Fitness is very important and we are getting good results because of a fit squad," he said
He said full flow in his team's forward line has paved the way to reach the final. He however, admitted that winning and losing in the final will make a difference. "Look at the Pakistan's team they are now in the top two as compared to the sixth spot in previous Asia Cup in Chennai."
The News International
Rehan eyes key role in Kuantan success
KUANTAN, Malaysia: Pakistan's senior striker Rehan Butt wants to contribute in a big way to win the first hockey title for Pakistan in 20 years.
"I have been part of the team for nearly ten years and itís my wish to go back home with Asia Cup Trophy," he said on Friday. "Winning this title will provide a perfect platform for the revival of Pakistan hockey," said the 29-year old Rehan. "Koreans are tough customers but the way we have played in the last two matches shows that we are peaking at the right time," he said.
Rehan was bubbling with confidence because of the fact that the current lot of players has the potential to topple Korea.
He said youngsters are also playing well in the tournament and he was trying to pass on his experience and knowledge to the future players of Pakistan.
Rehan, who is playing his third Asia Cup, said that it is the dream of the whole team to go back home with the Cup.
He said playing in the Dutch League had helped him in polishing and further improving his game.
"It is played in professional manner and it helps you in getting better," he observed. He said he would like to play in next year's World Cup in India, Asian Games in China and depending on his form and fitness looking to play his third Olympics in London in 2012.
The News International
It is great to see team in final: Samiullah
KARACHI: Pakistan's legendary hockey player Samiullah congratulated Pakistan hockey team and its management for a brilliant 4-2 win over hosts Malaysia on Thursday in their Asia Cup semifinal in Kuantan, Malaysia.
"I congratulate the team and its management for such a good triumph. It is good to see that Pakistan has qualified for the final after being sixth in last Asia Cup," Samiullah told PPI. He said, "Senior players played as we hoped and expected from them. They didn't start well in the tournament but in the semifinal they performed brilliantly."
"I am happy that we have reached the final. It will be even better to see them bringing the trophy home. However, it will not be easy to beat South Korea as they are the best team in Asia and they have performed really well throughout the tournament," said Samiullah.
He added that Pakistan can win the final, but, for that Sohail Abbas and others have to be at their best and the defense must also play well as it did against the Malaysians. He said that the four seniors who had been recalled for the national duty played impressively. Penalty corner specialist Sohail Abbas, Waseem Ahmed, Rehan Butt and goalkeeper Salman Akbar joined the national team for Asia Cup.
"They (senior quartet) have been instrumental in the team's performance during the tournament. Haseem Khan has also been playing well," Samiullah added. Rehan Butt scored two goals, Haseem Khan and Akhtar Ali scored a goal each to lead Pakistan to victory in the semifinal against Malaysia.
The News International
Brasa ready to take bull by the horns
Harpreet Kaur Lamba
New Delhi, May 15: Jose Manuel Brasa is a busy man. The Indian hockey team crashed out of the Asia Cup tournament earlier this week, and the new coach is busy making plans to bring things back on track.
Two-time defending champions, India lost to Pakistan and then drew with China 2-2 to see their medals hopes go up in smoke.
Peeved by their performance, the Indian Olympic Association’s ad-hoc committee had asked the team to fly back home after their last match against Japan on Friday, but for Brasa’s intervention. The Spaniard forced the team to stay put in Kuantan, Malaysia, for an extra day to watch the final — and rectify what had gone wrong in the last one week.
Said Brasa from Kuantan, "I think we should stop being temperamental. India won the Azlan Shah tournament and were deemed the kings of the world. Now that we are out of the semis, it has made them the worst... I don’t buy that.
"India possess what no other hockey-playing nation can ever have. I have a firm belief that there aren’t better talented players in the world at present.
"And if you train them properly, they can become the best," he said.
"India are out of the Asia Cup, but the players are not bad. Even the coaches and the support staff are very knowledgeable. Indian hockey’s problems are ancient, and we definitely need a change in training methods," he opined.
On Saturday, as India beat Japan 5-1 to finish fifth, Brasa listed areas that had caught his eye and will need immediate action once he takes charge.
Weight of gold
"I observed that the players are not mentally free. Every time they take the field, they carry with them the weight of India’s rich history in hockey... those eight Olympic Games gold medals. It seems they are playing with a hand-brake on. The country, fans, the media expects a lot. What is gone is gone... the players need to get out of the mould and begin to think beyond."
Technology the new mantra
"I will give a small instance here. In any international match, the support staff of all countries gather at one corner to record the proceedings. Since the last many years, it is very easy to spot the Indian camera. Why? Because they use the oldest methods of technology. Videographers, computers, analysts are an integral part of modern hockey and we definitely need them."
Physicians need of the hour
"Pakistan’s first goal against India gives an insight into what is wrong. During the fist half, midfielder Sardara Singh received the ball from the half-line and was being chased by a Pakistan attacker.
"While trying to get past him, Sardara lost his balance and fell. This paved way for Pakistan’s first goal and eventually their win.
"In modern times, a physician teaches you to how to maintain your balance even if the ground is slippery. A player is incomplete without knowing how to make the best use of his body."
The Correct gear
"It was a sight to see the Indian players squeezing out the sweat from their match-shirts after the first half against China. The Chinese, on the other hand, wore jerseys made of a special sweat-absorbent fabric. Now how can a player carrying one kg of extra weight on his body outplay his opponent?"
Training the right way
"The Indian players are good, but only to last 60-65 minutes. They are effective when fresh, but do not have the stamina to sustain the pressure. Records show that India have conceded a goal in the last five minutes of the game on most occasions in the last few years. To put it simply, a 100 metre sprinter will struggle when asked to compete in the 800 metres. Long-term resistance will be one crucial aspect of training from now on."
Changes and more changes
"Lastly, hockey has changed. A country of 1,000 billion people will have to understand it. I think there still exists a mindset that if India does whatever they did during 1950-60, they will start winning Olympic golds. The earlier we stop believing it, the better.
The off-side rule is gone, optimum use of rolling substitutions is an art, as is proper training. It must be done during the camps and not on the pitch."
The Indian team will now assemble for their next camp in Bhopal after a month’s break. Brasa’s first priority is to collect state-of-the-art equipment from the Sports Authority of India, and then chart out plans for each player.
To begin with, he will hold a special presentation and video session with the team on Saturday, before the Asia Cup final between Pakistan and South Korea.
"My stint practically begins tomorrow. I have planned a special something for Day One. Till now the players saw videos prior to the matches. Now they will be told what to observe during a final game. The work has to begun soon," he said.
The Asian Age
Harendra says he was provoked into Pakistan remark
NEW DELHI/KARACHI: India's hockey coach Harendra Singh on Friday clarified that his remark about India-Pakistan bilateral series were torn out of context by two Pakistani journalists who deliberately asked provocative questions.
Harendra's purported remarks that hit headlines in the Pakistani media sparked strong reactions from the Olympians across the border.
The Olympians took exception to Harendra's reported remark that "India would rather go to war with Paksitan than play hockey."
Harendra said that he only said it was not for him to take a call on the India-Pakistan bilateral hockey series and it is for the government to decide. He did not say that 'India should go to war' as attributed to him in the Pakistani media.
Harendra said the exchange between him and the two Pakistani journalists took place when he was on his way to the media room and not at the press conference, after defending champions India lost to Pakistan 2-3 in the pool game of the Asia Cup.
Harendra said he had heated exchanges with the two correspondents as they used abusive language.
"I will not stand anyone abusing my country. The two Pakistani journalists kept using foul language to provoke me," said a furious Harendra.
"I don't care what they write, all I said to silence them was this is not the time to play hockey with Pakistan. In any case, they should have confined themselves to the match and the game instead of provoking me to say something unpleasant. The way the two reporters accosted me it appeared they came with an ulterior motive.
"The two reporters kept asking whether Indo-Pak bilateral series should be resumed and I said that it is not my call, it is for the government decide. They kept needling me, asking irrelevant questions."
Harendra's team was out of medal contention after their loss to Pakistan in a crucial Group B match and the subsequent 2-2 draw with China.
The Pakistani Olympians said the Asian Hockey Federation and the International Hockey federation (FIH) should take action against the India coach.
Veteran Munir Dar said he was disappointed as Harendra's remarks were against the spirit of sport.
"Sports and politics should not be mixed," said Dar.
"I was really disappointed over the remarks as Pakistan-India matches are keenly watched on both sides of the border and they should continue," he added.
Another Olympian Khawaja Junaid, who is the coach of the Pakistan junior team, said Harendra's statement was irresponsible.
"I am surprised that a person in such a key position could be so careless," he said. "He (Harendra) made those remarks during an international tournament and I believe that the AHF and the FIH should take action against him."
Indo-Pak relations were strained in the wake of last November's Mumbai terror attacks. India then refused to send its cricket team to Pakistan while in a tit-for-tat reaction, Pakistan advised its cricketers not to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
The two cricket teams have not played against each other since the Mumbai attack but Pakistani and Indian hockey teams have played each other twice in Malaysia in recent times. In the last month's Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh, India beat Pakistan and then went on to win the five-nation contest.
The Times of India
Senior Mens Squad Increased
The South African Hockey Senior Men’s Selectors have deemed it necessary to increase the number of senior players attending the National Men’s Training camp in Pretoria from the 25th to 31st May 2009 from the current 24 players to 28.
The following players will now join the squad at the training camp
Paul Blake
Matt Botha
Darren Kimfley
BJ Wilson
SA Hockey Association media release
Men's National Team: World Cup Squad Camp Trials
Following last month's successful campaign to win the Pan American Cup in Santiago and direct qualification to the 2010 World Cup in New Delhi, the Canadian Men's Team is formally initiating it's World Cup preparation.
Head Coach Alan Brahmst announced that the first project for the Champions of the Americas is a 4-day National Selection Camp scheduled for June 4 - 7 in Vancouver. Field Hockey Canada's objective for this camp is to identify the World Cup squad of 28-30 athletes, who will form the core group of players participating in the preparation projects over the next 10 months.
"The camp will be comprehensive with 15 hours of on-field activities and will include fitness testing and a technical capabilities evaluation. Tactical assessments will be performed as part of numerous inter-squad matches", said Brahmst.
"For Canada, as we move toward two significant competitions in 2010 we are looking to now design a younger squad, which will form the longer-term core of our National Team as we move toward London 2012 and then into the next Olympic cycle. Although performance in the short term is a top priority, we are looking for the right balance to sustain our success and continue our climb in world rankings beyond 2010."
The squad will be announced on June 9th before the athletes join the provincial team training phase, which concludes with the National Championships in Calgary from July 20-26th.
Field Hockey Canada media release
Ottley strike keeps Dames perfect
Tobias Ottley handed defending champions, Notre Dame a 1-0 win over Defence Force in a top of the table T&T Hockey Board Men’s Championship Division clash at the National Hockey Centre, Tacarigua, on Wednesday night. Ottley scored midway through the first half for the Dames, who were without regular captain Kwandwane Browne.
With the win, their fourth from as many matches, the Dames improved to maximum 12 points, three ahead of Defence Force, who had its three-match win streak snapped. On Tuesday at the same venue, Stag Malvern registered a narrow 3-2 win over the Dames in the Veterans Division.
For Malvern, Marcano-brothers, Albert and Anthony were both on target along with Geoffrey Wilcox, while Leon Ramdeen and Carlos La Caille netted for the Dames. Meanwhile, the T&THB will be hosting a Youth Development Tournament from 10 am until 2 pm today at its Tacarigua venue for primary schools.
The Trinidad Guardian
BJSS fight back to draw with BPSS
KUALA LUMPUR: Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS) staged a magnificent fightback from three goals down to hold Bandar Penawar Sports School (BPSS) to a 3-3 draw in the Malaysia Hockey League Division One match at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil yesterday.
BPSS, who lost to BJSS in the final of the MHL Under-19 competition on penalties last month, took the lead through Amir Farid Ahmad Fuzi in the ninth minute.
Mohd Hafiz Nawi (28th minute) and Mohd Rifhan Mohd Azhar (47th) then made it 3-0 for BPSS.
But Under-19 League and overall winners BJSS are made of sterner stuff these days.
Dangerous Lee started the fightback, scoring in the 54th minute. Then two goals in four minutes by Faridzul Mohamed (61st) and Arief Iskandar (65th) helped BJSS to share the points
The Star of Malaysia
Women’s hockey needs committed persons: LWHA secretary Zaib
Staff Report
LAHORE: Lahore Women’s Hockey Association (LWHA) general secretary Zaibun Nisa has said that women’s hockey in the country will only improve if concrete steps are taken at the grassroots level for the development of the game and by hiring committed and professional people to run the affairs of the sport. Talking to Daily Times here on Thursday, she said women’s hockey had gone to the dogs and there were a number of reasons behind it. “Foremost of which is negligence on part of previous regimes, which assumed the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) women’s wing from time to time but failed to take any practical steps for the betterment of women’s hockey,” she added. Zaib said for the last three decades the authorities had never paid much attention to women’s hockey. “But the present PHF setup, under Qasim Zia, has a number of targets for women’s hockey in their four-year programme. If they are successful in their targets then the future of women’s hockey seems bright,” she maintained.
She said she had a number of ideas for improvement of women’s hockey. “I have a plan ready with me for improving women’s hockey in the country. The plan can take the game to the top,” she claimed. Zaib, a former hockey player herself, said the PHF women’s wing should devise a standard syllabus for school-level girls involved in the game with refresher and basic coaching courses for the school teachers to form a pool of young players from different educational institutions. “Once these players reach the college and university level, they should be nurtured under the aegis of qualified coaches with an aim of helping them represent Pakistan at international level.” Zaib said in this way coaches, often former Olympians, would no longer have the excuse that players were lacking basics and therefore cannot be trained up to the mark.
Zaib said that due to insecure environment of the country there was little chance that foreign teams would visit Pakistan. “But this is a golden opportunity for the authorities to arrange provincial and regional matches to expand the pool of women players for selection in the national team.” She urged former Pakistan hockey legends to help the PHF improve the national sport. “My personal services are always on offer at every level and I ask all former greats to join hands for betterment of women’s hockey.” Zaib said she personally knew people who were willing to sacrifice for the betterment of hockey without any monetary expectations provided the PHF gave them due respect. “Such people hate the existing culture of the PHF which is based on discrimination and political interests,” she maintained.
Zaib said the women’s hockey selection committee could no longer afford to sideline talented players solely in order to facilitate nepotism because such practise was a major factor behind the national team’s dismal performance in competitive tournaments. “In 2008, Rukhsana Shaukat was declared the best player of an Under-16 event yet when the time came for selecting the Pakistan junior team, she was not even considered for the trials. Other ignored names are Maria Muhammad and Ayesha Rafique. Also Amna and Ayesha Arif, having represented Pakistan in the past, are no longer in the picture for unknown reasons.”
Zaib said that women coaches must be prepared and promoted at both national and international level in order to supervise Under-13, Under-15 and Under-17 girls camps, mostly looked after by male personnel. She emphasised the necessity of fund raising programmes for the benefit of players. “The PHF should arrange visits of former hockey greats to schools and colleges in order to inspire young minds and provide them with role models,” she concluded.
The Daily Times