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Thirsk U16 Girls have a tough start to season

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 09:00:10 -0000

Test The new season of the first round of the Yorkshire Youth Hockey League started with a bang for Thirsk Girls U16 team last Sunday at Doncaster. Doncaster, Wakefield (two of the countys strongest teams) and Leeds provided the opposition. There was no time to settle in gently as first opponents were a well drilled and skilful Wakefield who boasted several North of England players in their squad. Wakefield applied steady pressure and despite the heroics of Emma Linthwaite and her cohorts in the defence Thirsk succumbed to a 4-0 defeat. The next game against Doncaster was expected to be just as fearsome but the Thirsk players dug deep and worked hard to keep the rampaging Doncaster forwards at bay. Captain Nicky Gill marshalled her troops from the back and with Sophie Maude and Beth Bradbury making many timely tackles they restricted Doncaster to a single goal.

The schedule dictated that Thirsk were straight back into the action against a Leeds side that had also suffered at the hands of the stronger teams. Here the midfield came into their own with Anna Hunter in the centre controlling the game ably assisted by Hannah Moody and the irrepressible Sarah Turner. Nicky Gill was able to foray more forward in this game and it was one of her shots that was deflected by a defender over the stranded goalkeeper to give Thirsk a well deserved lead. Leeds were by no means out of the game as they tried to throw everything forward in an attempt to score the equaliser, but with Ellie Skippings standing firm in goal making several saves they were unable to get on the score sheet. Thirsk didnt just sit back but continued to attack at every opportunity with the Wilson twins of Becky and Rosie confusing the defence and Immie Pearson a constant threat to the Leeds goal. No further scores resulted in Thirsk achieving a well earned and hard fought for victory.
This was certainly a baptism of fire and the Thirsk girls gave a good account of themselves. They never gave up trying and continued to run for each other even though they were up against it. They will not have a harder day than this in the rest of the season.

Well played girls, keep it up.

New Zealand NHL Round 5 Results

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 08:51:08 -0000

The only previously unbeaten side in the competition, Midlands Women, stumbled against Canterbury today, going down 2 1. Midlands looked out of sorts and Canterbury did well to make the most of their opportunities. Canterbury had a dream start to the game when Liz Perry broke away setting up Jane Maley across the face of the goal in the first minute. Anna Wetherall added a second nine minutes later. North Harbour picked up their game for an impressive 6 1 over Wellington. Stacey Michelsen was the standout for Harbour. Central also continued their winning way, beating Southern 3 0 in saturated conditions after a downpour, to move up to 12 points, behind Midlands and Harbour, (also with 12 points), on goal difference. Northland spoiled Aucklands chances of staying in the running for medal contention, forcing a 2 2 draw. Sisters Charlotte and Sam Harrison both got on the scoreboard for their opposing teams (Northland and Auckland, respectively).

Land & Marine Aucklanders 2 v 2 Mark Comie Holden Northland HT 0-1 | 2009-09-23 12:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Central Mysticks 3 v 0 Southern Storm HT 2-0 | 2009-09-23 14:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Bayleys Midlands 1 v 2 Pica Print Canterbury Cats HT 2-1 | 2009-09-23 16:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Kooga North Harbour 6 v 1 Monteiths Wellington HT 1-0 | 2009-09-23 18:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Wellington Men were comfortable in the 5 0 win over Southern to maintain their one point lead at the top of the table, with 13 points. Matt LHullier continued his good goal scoring from adding two more, taking his total to six. North Harbour had a 3 1 win over Auckland to consolidate their position running into the business end of the tournament. The match was marred by a downpour which slowed up the first half in particular. Auckland, with just four points after five rounds, are looking at one of their worse finishes ever... Midlands and Canterbury battled out the late game of the day. The 2 - 0 win by Midlands put the defending champions in second place behind Wellington. Northland Men slotted up their second well deserved win, beating Central, who are yet to register points, 2 1.

Central Mavericks 1 v 2 ITM Northland HT 1-2 | 2009-09-23 13:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Land & Marine Aucklanders 1 v 3 Kooga North Harbour HT 1-0 | 2009-09-23 15:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

BDO Spicers Wellington 5 v 0 The Southern Men HT 4-0 | 2009-09-23 17:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Bayleys Midlands 2 v 0 Canterbury Cavaliers HT 0-0 | 2009-09-23 19:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

New Zealand NHL Round 4 Results

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 08:15:40 -0000

Southern pulled off one of the biggest NHL upsets beating traditional powerhouses Auckland 4 3, to also record their first win of the tournament. The Southerners, who lost to fellow cellar dwellers Northland yesterday, played with great passion to come back from a 2 1 half-time deficit. Tasmanian Tigers import Nick Budgeon proved his worth, scoring twice. Southern will celebrate the win long and hard. With not a single Black Stick or Junior Black Stick in the side, the performance was a true team effort against the star studded Aucklanders. Midlands beat Northland 6 0 and North Harbour dispatched Central 7 0. Wellington downed Canterbury 2 1 in a heart stopper for the local crowd, setting up a tight top four.

Land & Marine Aucklanders 3 v 4 The Southern Men HT 2-1 | 2009-09-21 12:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Bayleys Midlands 6 v 0 ITM Northland HT 4-0 | 2009-09-21 14:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Kooga North Harbour 7 v 0 Central Mavericks HT 3-0 | 2009-09-21 16:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Canterbury Cavaliers 1 v 2 BDO Spicers Wellington HT 1-1 | 2009-09-21 18:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Midlands headed off Wellington 3 2 to maintain their unbeaten top of the table run and statistically at least, are out on their own. Midlands have averaged over four goals a game. Their goal differential of +15, having scored 18 goals and conceded just three is streets ahead of the next best placed team, North Harbour who are on +6. Gemma Flynn is the Leading Womens goal scorer with five goals with penalty corner specialist Clarissa Esuis, not far behind with four. North Harbour struggled initially in their match today but eventually put away Southern 4 1 to move into second place. Auckland found further form after notching their first win of the tournament, last night, to down Canterbury 2 0. Northland suffered their second last gasp lost when Kayla Sharland finished a penalty corner for Central in the final minute of the match for a 2 1 win.

Bayleys Midlands 3 v 2 Monteiths Wellington HT 2-1 | 2009-09-21 11:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Kooga North Harbour 4 v 1 Southern Storm HT 1-1 | 2009-09-21 13:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Land & Marine Aucklanders 2 v 0 Pica Print Canterbury Cats HT 1-0 | 2009-09-21 15:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Mark Comie Holden Northland 1 v 2 Central Mysticks HT 0-1 | 2009-09-21 17:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

New Zealand NHL Round 3 Results

Sun, 20 Sep 2009 08:04:43 -0000

Canterbury lead the Mens points table after three rounds, with Auckland currently just edged out of the top four. Auckland and Wellington battled out a 5 5 draw, after the Wellingtonians clawed their way back from a 4 2 half time deficit. Wellington even hit the lead with a little over 10 minutes to play when Jason Hilton scored from the field, but Simon Childs solo effort from a penalty corner variation drew the scores level two minutes later. Northland Men notched up their first win with a satisfying 2 0 victory over Southern. Sam Bartholomew converted a penalty stroke and a corner. Canterbury had an unexpectedly comfortable win over North Harbour, hammering in four goals in the second half for a 5-1 victory. Harbour missed the defensive qualities of defender Blair Hopping who was unavailable. Hayden Shaw scored twice to become the leading Mens goalscorer with five goals. Midlands romped in 9 0 over Central, Junior Black Stick Hugo Inglis picked up a hat trick.

ITM Northland 2 v 0 The Southern Men HT 0-0 | 2009-09-20 12:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Kooga North Harbour 1 v 5 Canterbury Cavaliers HT 0-1 | 2009-09-20 14:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Land & Marine Aucklanders 5 v 5 BDO Spicers Wellington HT 4-2 | 2009-09-20 15:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Bayleys Midlands 9 v 0 Central Mavericks HT 5-0 | 2009-09-20 17:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Midlands Women continued their unbeaten run with a 3 1 win over luckless Northland who are yet to win a game, despite playing some good hockey. The young Northland side has fantastic strike power but are being given too few opportunities up front. Midlands now lead the Womens points table and are looking the most consistently dangerous. Wellington Women continued their good weekend with a 4 0 win over Southland. North Harbour also continued their consistence performances downing a lacklustre Canterbury 3 0. Auckland recorded their first win of the competition with a spirited 1 0 win over Central. Krystal Forgesson was the goal scorer, from a penalty corner variation.

Bayleys Midlands 3 v 1 Mark Comie Holden Northland HT 2-1 | 2009-09-20 11:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Monteiths Wellington 4 v 0 Southern Storm HT 1-0 | 2009-09-20 13:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Kooga North Harbour 3 v 0 Pica Print Canterbury Cats HT 1-0 | 2009-09-20 16:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Land & Marine Aucklanders 1 v 0 Central Mysticks HT 0-0 | 2009-09-20 18:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Ireland v Argentina series cancelled

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 12:34:17 -0000

Argentina who were due to make the trip to Ireland to compete in a triple header against Irelands Senior Mens Hockey team on the 28th, 30th September and the 1st October in Dublin have now confirmed that they are not in a position to make the trip and will have to pull out of the series.

Coach Paul Revington had already named his squads for the Argentinean Series as well as for his upcoming French double header in France (23rd / 24th Sept) and triple header against the Scottish (2nd, 3rd, 4th October) in Banbridge. In light of the cancelled Argentinean series, Revington will now re select his squad for the Scottish series, but the squads for the French series will remain unchanged. Revington is expected to re announce the squad later next week.

New Zealand NHL Round 2 Results

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 12:25:44 -0000

In the Womens competition Central emerged as an early title contender with a well earned 3 1 win over defending champions North Harbour. Midlands also confirmed themselves as a class act with the biggest win of the day, a 10 0 drubbing of Southland to follow on from their Round One win over Auckland. Gemma Flynn scored a hat trick. Canterbury snuck home in the final minute of the match against Northland, converting a direct penalty corner strike with seconds to go, for a 2 1 win. Auckland found themselves 4 0 down to Wellington by half time. The talented-filled Auckland side is yet to gel. For Wellington former the experience of Black Sticks Niniwa Roberts and Suzie Muirhead added to the performance. Current Black Sticks Anita Punt and keeper Beth Jurgeleit also played well during the 4 1 win.

Bayleys Midlands 10 v 0 Southern Storm HT 5-0 | 2009-09-19 12:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Mark Comie Holden Northland 1 v 2 Pica Print Canterbury Cats HT 0-1 | 2009-09-19 14:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Land & Marine Aucklanders 1 v 4 Monteiths Wellington HT 0-4 | 2009-09-19 15:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Kooga North Harbour 1 v 3 Central Mysticks HT 0-1 | 2009-09-19 17:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

In the Mens competition, defending champions Midlands stumbled against Wellington going down 2 1. Black Sticks keeper Kyle Pontifex made several good saves late in the game to protect Wellingtons lead. North Harbour chalked up another big win, with a 6 1 victory over Southern, taking their haul to 12 goals in two rounds. Dave Kosoof is their current leading goal scoring with three. Northland keeper Greg Paynter made some good saves to keep a clean goal in the first half against Auckland. Auckland couldnt break the deadlock until the 43rd minute when Steven OConnor eased the tension with a well taken field goal. Auckland added a further two goals for a 3 0. Canterbury came back from a 1 0 half time deficit against Central to take out the match 3 1.

Kooga North Harbour 6 v 1 The Southern Men HT 4-1 | 2009-09-19 11:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Land & Marine Aucklanders 3 v 0 ITM Northland HT 0-0 | 2009-09-19 13:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Canterbury Cavaliers 3 v 1 Central Mavericks HT 1-1 | 2009-09-19 16:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Bayleys Midlands 1 v 2 BDO Spicers Wellington HT 1-2 | 2009-09-19 18:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Ireland Friendlies Planned

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 05:12:18 -0000

Ireland's Senior Men's team are in full flight of preparation for their upcoming World Cup Qualification (WCQ) which includes potentially eight test games in just a twelve day period, if all goes to plan. The intensity of the programme also affords Coach Paul Revington a prime opportunity to survey his athletes in a match situation as they compete to gain a foot hold in the Irish WCQ squad come November.

Commenting on this new phase he said "After a satisfactory Summer of international Hockey, our Team faces the immediate next challenge of World Cup Qualification,and therefore another important phase of preparation. The games against France, Argentina and Scotland offer our Squad an immediate opportunity to assess our playing standards and for all players to stamp their quality within team performances. It will be a challenging phase of games in a very short period oftime, testing the strength of our squad and also allowing for a very intensive period of games and training for the squad."

First up Ireland play the French, ranked 17th in the world, in a double header on the 23rd and 24th September in Paris. Just four days later Ireland are scheduled to play the world number 10's Argentina, however these fixtures are still awaiting 100% confirmation from the Puma's as to whether they will be in a position to make the trip to Ireland. Regardless of the outcome Ireland will then take on Scotland in a triple header at Banbridge hockey club at the start of October.

Match Schedule

23rdSept

Ireland v France(Paris) 18.00

24thSept

Ireland v France(Paris) 14.30

28thSept

Ireland v Argentina(UCD,Dublin) 20.30

30thSept

Ireland v Argentina(UCD,Dublin) 20.30

1stOct

Ireland v Argentina(UCD,Dublin) 20.30

2ndOct

Ireland v Scotland(Banbridge, Down) 20.00

Oct 3rd

Ireland v Scotland(Banbridge, Down) 18.00

4thOct

Ireland v Scotland(Banbridge, Down) 14.00

Leman Re-elected as GB President

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 05:01:16 -0000

Following a recent selection process the Great Britain Hockey Board is pleased to announce the reappointment of Richard Leman as President for the next four years.

Richard was first appointed to the Great Britain Hockey Board in 2005 as England Hockeys representative and took over the role of President in January 2008.

His career highlights include winning Olympic Bronze in Los Angeles in 1984 and Olympic Gold in Seoul in 1988. He won a total of 228 caps for England and Great Britain and was Player of the Year in 1984.

Richard is hockeys representative on the British Olympic Associations National Olympic Committee and also sits on their Board. He is heavily involved in hockey from grass roots to the elite level, in particular with the administration and development of East Grinstead Hockey Club. He is also currently the Chair of East Grinstead Sports Club.

Speaking about the role, Richard said: I am honoured to be reappointed as President of Great Britain Hockey at such a key stage in the development of our sport. We are lucky to have such a great team of professional and volunteer supporters throughout Great Britain and with the funding supplied by UK Sport and the National Lottery everyone is pushing hard to give the athletes of both the mens and womens squads the best possible chance of success in 2012.

New Zealand NHL Round 1 Results

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 07:49:17 -0000

Defending champions Midlands got off to a good start in the Mens competition with a 6 4 win over Auckland. Malaysian import Raju Sandrakasi had a solid impact up front and Richard Petherick converted to drag flick penalty corners. Midlands went into half time 3 1 up and maintained the two goal buffer, by the completion of the match. North Harbour were as expected too strong for Northland, winning 6 1. Wellington were equally dominant over Central, winning 7 1. On Sunday Canterbury downed Southern 7 3, Hayden Shaw scoring a hat trick. Southern played creatively to score their three goals and were far from disgraced.

In the Womens competition defending champions North Harbour also had a solid start, beating Northland 4 2. The young Northland side could not contain the scoring power of the star studded side. Auckland, who on paper, many are picking to take out the League, had a disappointing start going down 2 0 to Midlands. Auckland have three Black Sticks strikers in their ranks, would have been disappointed not to get on the scoreboard. Players of the Day for Midlands were Cathryn Finlayson who created space well and got in behind the Auckland defence, while Gemma Flynn and Chloe Rogers dominated the midfield, controlling the game well. For Auckland Katie Glynn and Sam Harrison looked dangerous with the limited opportunities that they had. Central disposed of Wellington 5 0. Kayla Sharland and Michaela Curtis shone for Central, while former Black Stick Niniwa Roberts was Wellingtons standout. Canterbury beat Southern 6 0 on Sunday.

Men's results

Bayleys Midlands 6 v 4 Land & Marine Aucklanders HT 3-1 | 2009-09-12 15:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Kooga North Harbour 6 v 1 ITM Northland HT 3-0 | 2009-09-12 15:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

BDO Spicers Wellington 7 v 1 Central Mavericks HT 5-0 | 2009-09-12 15:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Canterbury Cavaliers 7 v 3 The Southern Men HT 4-1 | 2009-09-13 13:00
No Venue | New Zealand Men's NHL (Mens) | Match Report(s)

Women's Results

Land & Marine Aucklanders 0 v 2 Bayleys Midlands HT 0-1 | 2009-09-12 13:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Kooga North Harbour 4 v 2 Mark Comie Holden Northland HT 2-0 | 2009-09-12 13:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Central Mysticks 5 v 2 Monteiths Wellington HT 2-1 | 2009-09-12 13:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Pica Print Canterbury Cats 6 v 0 Southern Storm HT 3-0 | 2009-09-13 11:00
No Venue | New Zealand Women's NHL (Ladies) | Match Report(s)

For more information on the leagues go to The Hockey New Zealand website

New Zealand Hockey AGM Statement

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:57:35 -0000

Hockey New Zealand Chair Graham Child announced a small deficit for the 12 months to end June 2009 of $17,000 on total revenues of $3.4 million, at Hockeys national AGM in Wellington last weekend.

Mr Child says With 53,000 players, hockey is one of New Zealands larger participation sports but it is an incredibly lean sport financially. With what resources we have, including the much appreciated ongoing support from partners such as SPARC, Pelorus Trust and NZ Community Trust, Hockey New Zealand has been able to continue with both the support of the development of the sport in the regions and the Black Sticks programmes over the past year.

A key focus for the past year had been a strengthening of Hockey New Zealands high performance programme. Success in high performance is critical to the ongoing advancement of our sport. This year weve worked very hard to gather the best in terms of technical, sports science, coaching and leadership in our high performance team. Our national coaches, including womens coach Mark Hager (previously assistant Coach of the Australian Womens team, and past captain of Australia) and Shane McLeod for the Men, under the direction of our Hockey Director Ramesh Patel, are amongst the best in the world, says Child.

The Black Sticks Womens team is making steady progress with their new coach, having achieved a significant milestone by winning the Oceania Cup last weekend and qualifying for the 2010 World Cup in Argentina. While the Black Sticks Men are yet to qualify, they still have a strong chance to do so by winning the BDO World Cup Qualifying Tournament to be hosted by Invercargill, in early November.

Hockey New Zealand is changing its financial year to a calendar year to better align with the hockey year, and funders, and after a thorough financial review, is forecasting a deficit of $243K for the six months to December 2009. The main drivers of this deficit will be:

The timing of cashflow which generally peaks during the early winter months.

The relatively high number of international competitions the Blacks Stick Men and Black Sticks Women will compete in between now and the end of the year.

The reduction of SPARC funding for the Womens programme, which has required Hockey New Zealand to fund the international programme from other revenue and reserves.

However, this deficit is expected to normalise during the 2010 year.

New chief executive Hilary Poole is currently leading a national review of Hockeys strategy, with the aim of confirming a national plan for the whole of the sport. She expects this process to:

Take a good hard look at the opportunity to establish national participation programmes to attract and retain players in the sport at all levels.

Confirm the drivers for the commercial model to strengthen the foundations and build profile of the sport.

Review the national and international competition structure, to ensure New Zealands best players have the access to frequency and intensity of top level match play, and to attract spectators and revenue to the sport.

To see more of what's going on in New Zealand Hockey visit The New Zealand Hockey Website

England Girls and Wales Boys U18 Champs

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:23:43 -0000

ENGLAND Under-18 Girls were crowned UK School Games Champions after they secured a third straight victory at the Wales Institute of Sport in Cardiff, beating Scotland 5-3 last Sunday.

The team has gone from strength to strength over the three-day event, culminating in a confident victory over a Scotland side who were also unbeaten in the Tournament until they faced England.

“We’re delighted how the team has welded together in such a short space of time,” said assistant coach Charlie Seecomb. “They deserve every credit for what has been achieved, not just from a results perspective but for the way they have developed patterns of play.”

The victory began in the fifth minute with Bradford Wakefield’s Rosie Tootell scoring from a penalty corner, striking home into the bottom right corner, and the very next minute their lead was doubled with Georgia Rawlinson scoring the first of her four goals, again from a penalty corner.

Rawlinson’s second goal came from open play on 18 minutes, and although Scotland pulled back a goal through Heath Elder just before half time through a penalty corner, England were still in command.

Rawlinson secured her hat-trick on 50 minutes as England went 4-1 ahead, but Scotland hit back seven minutes later, Anna Thompson scoring the goal from another penalty corner.

Rawlinson’s fourth goal came on 64 minutes from open play. The initial shot was saved by the Scotland goalkeeper, but the ball fell loose, and the Firebrands player lifted it over the stranded keeper to bag a fourth goal.

Scotland attacked desperately, and Thompson added a third for Scotland in the final minute, but it was no more than a consolation as England were celebrating a matter of seconds later.

England Boys U18 could not match the achievement. Although they beat Scotland 8-1 in the final match the loss to wales earlier in the competition cost them the gold medal.

We’re extremely pleased with the performance,” said team manager Steve Floyd. “We played much better today than in the other games, and really took our chances.

It’s disappointing that we didn’t do that earlier in the competition. That cost us the gold medal, but we’re pleased with our performance today.”

2010 World Cup Qualifiers

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 10:10:04 -0000

The International Hockey Federation (FIH) is pleased to announce the match schedules for the FIH Mens World Cup Qualifiers, to be played in October and November 2009.

Only the winners of the three FIH Mens World Cup qualifiers will receive a ticket for the Hero Honda FIH World Cup in New Delhi, India (28 February-13 March 2010).

At this stage the match schedules for the FIH Mens World Cup Qualifier in Lille, France and the BDO FIH Mens World Cup Qualifier in Invercargill, New Zealand are confirmed. The match schedule for the BDO FIH Mens World Cup Qualifier in Quilmes, Argentina will be released in a few days.

Information from the World Hockey Website

Netherlands Queens of Europe again

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 10:00:42 -0000

The Dutch women have grabbed the European title in Amsterdam, beating rivals Germany in a thrilling final, 3-2. Germany surprisingly took the lead by Maike Stöckel in the 11th minute, giving the Dutch crowd a scare. Holland took over by goals from Lidewij Welten and Marilyn Agliotti but couldnt hold the lead till the half-time whistle. Nina Hasselmann tapped in the 2-2 from a German penalty corner. In the second half Germany and the Netherlands showed they are Europes two best teams, playing top-level hockey. Six minutes before time Marilyn Agliotti decided the final, crowning the hosts European Champion.

Netherlands 3 v 2 Germany HT 2-2 | 2009-08-29 15:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Knockout / Placement (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Bronze Match

Spain 1 v 2 England HT 0-1 | 2009-08-29 13:00
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Knockout / Placement (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Classification

Azerbaijan 3 v 1 Scotland HT 1-0 | 2009-08-29 10:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Knockout / Placement (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Russia 1 v 1 Ireland HT 1-1 | 2009-08-29 08:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Knockout / Placement (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Final Placings

Netherlands
Germany
England
Spain
Azerbaijan
Ireland
Russia
Scotland

England New European Champions

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 09:43:00 -0000

The English mens team pulled off a major upset in the final of the EuroHockey Nations Championships in Amstelveen, Netherlands on Sunday. The English team defeated Olympic and World Champion Germany (5:3) to become the new European Champion.

Host Netherlands finally claimed the bronze medal after a disappointing tournament. The Dutch secured a podium place after a 6:1 win over Spain. England, Germany, Netherlands and Spain earned direct qualification for the Hero Honda FIH World Cup 2010 in New Delhi, India.

Results Sunday 30 August 2009

Final:

England 5 v 3 Germany HT 2-2 | 2009-08-30 15:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Men Knockout / Placement (National Mens) | Match Report(s)

Bronze medal match:

Netherlands 6 v 1 Spain HT 2-1 | 2009-08-30 13:00
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Men Knockout / Placement (National Mens) | Match Report(s)

Classification 5-8:

Austria 5 v 4 Poland HT 4-3 | 2009-08-30 08:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Men Knockout / Placement (National Mens) | Match Report(s)

Belgium 7 v 0 France HT 2-0 | 2009-08-30 10:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Men Knockout / Placement (National Mens) | Match Report(s)

Final Ranking:

England (Qualified for Hero Honda FIH World Cup 2010)
Germany (Qualified for Hero Honda FIH World Cup 2010)
Netherlands (Qualified for Hero Honda FIH World Cup 2010)
Spain (Qualified for Hero Honda FIH World Cup 2010)
Belgium
France
Austria
Poland

For more details visit the world hockey website

Scotland in World Cup Qualifier

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 09:28:39 -0000

Scotlands senior men face a World Cup qualifier in Invercargill, New Zealand this Autumn, with a place at the FIH World Cup in New Delhi, India in 2010 up for grabs.

The team will be coached in New Zealand by junior mens coach Russell Garcia, whose assistant coach Derek Forsyth also steps up from his role with the junior men for the qualifiers, which take place 7-15th November.

The Scots fifth place finish at the EuroHockey Nations Trophy in Wrexham last month secured their spot in a qualifier. The qualifier will take place in Invercargill New Zealand this Autumn, with Scotland playing in a round-robin tournament along with China, Malaysia, Austria, New Zealand and Wales. The winners will take their place at the FIH World Cup in New Delhi in February 2010.

Coach Russell Garcia said: Im happy to be taking on this role, and were taking a long term view on it in terms of giving younger players the chance. Well be using these qualifiers as an opportunity to get to the World Cup, but also as a stepping stone for the European Trophy squad for 2011 as well as the Commonwealth Games in 2014.

Scottish Hockeys Performance Manager Callum McLeod said: I'm delighted that both Russell and Derek have agreed to lead the programme as they bring a huge amount of experience with them. Both are fully committed and highly motivated to deliver the best possible programme in the short space of time.

Waltham Forest need players

Wed, 9 Sep 2009 11:55:57 -0000

Having had all eight teams promoted last season our 4 men's teams play in the East League: Divs 2S, 4SE, 5SE and 10SE and our 4 women's teams play in the East League Div 1S and Essex league: Premiership, Div 3 and Div 4.

Based in Walthamstow - matches are on Saturdays and occasional Sundays, and we train every week on Tuesdays (ladies) and Wednesdays (men) 8.30pm to 10pm.

We are looking for players of all standards but particularly 1st team.

For further information please take a look at our website Waltham Forest HC

Blackheath open/trials day Sept 12th

Wed, 9 Sep 2009 11:51:11 -0000

Blackheath Hockey Club are the oldest hockey club in the world and we are looking for players, coaches, umpires to help keep up our long history within the sport. We are in South East London and play in the Kent/Sussex League and welcome people of all abilities from the serious to the social.

Club Open Day/Trials Day is Saturday 12th September 12noon onwards so please come along to our Sedgehill School pitch followed by food, drink and party at our club house.

Training is now underway on Tuesday nights - 8.30pm until 10pm at the HSBC Sports Ground.

For more information visit our website www.blackheath.co.uk or contact Michael Earnshaw at bhc1861@live.co.uk or 07703 066136.

Euro Championship Results Day 3

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 06:59:37 -0000

Germany 4 v 4 England HT 1-1 | 2009-08-24 17:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship (Men) POOL A (National Mens) | Match Report(s)

Englands Rob Moore might have thought hed scored the winning goal on his 100th England appearance against the Worlds number one side today but Germany responded to secure a 4-4 draw in what was a thrilling hockey spectacle at the Wagener Stadium in Amstelveen. Despite letting slip a two goal lead in the dying moments of the game the draw keeps England top of the Pool A table going into their final pool match against Belgium on Wednesday.

Ashley Jackson gave England the perfect start against the reigning World and Olympic Champions when he smashed an effort low to the German goalkeepers right hand side just four minutes in although England would lose him to injury later in the half.

Throughout the half both teams played exciting, fast paced hockey and it was Germany who scored next through the clinical Christopher Zeller three minutes before half time.

If that setback was disappointing to England what happened one minute into the second half was twice as disappointing when they went behind to a Mortiz Fuerste penalty stroke. A move into the England circle had found a German player in front of goal but as he made a challenge Beeston defender Ali Wilson was adjudged to have fouled his opponent and Fuerste stepped up to fire home the resultant penalty.

Captain Barry Middleton, who scored twice against Austria on Sunday, netted another brace against Germany in some style, scoring twice in two minutes to turn the game again. After scoring from open play in the 40th minute, he was then quickest to react to the rebounding ball at a 42 minute penalty corner, knocking home to make it 3-2 to England.

The game was still being played at an exhilarating pace and Rob Moore (pictured right), playing in his 100th international match for England, got his fairytale moment as he scored to put England 4-2 up.

After going off injured in the first half Ashley Jackson returned in the second period but he could do nothing about Zellers goal with 12 minutes remaining, which put Germany right back in contention.

Into the final ten minutes and England were desperate to hold on for the victory. They were dealt a blow with just three minutes remaining when Moore was shown a yellow card, forcing him to watch what remained of the match from the sidelines and a minute later Christopher Wesley equalised for Germany; 4-4 the final score after a breath-taking game.

After the match, Manager Peter Nicholson was philosophical about the result, despite losing the two goals late on. It was a great match a superb advert for hockey. Were obviously a bit disappointed not to see the game out but it was actually still a good result for us, especially with Belgium only scoring three against Austria earlier.

The point won keeps England top of Pool A, ahead of Germany on goal difference and a point ahead of their opponents on Wednesday Belgium. For their part, Austria remain at the foot of the group after their 3-0 defeat at the hands of Belgium. England play Belgium at 13:30 local time (12:30BST) on Wednesday.

Report courtesy of England Hockey

Belgium 3 v 0 Austria HT 1-0 | 2009-08-24 15:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship (Men) POOL A (National Mens) | Match Report(s)

Poland 2 v 3 France HT 1-1 | 2009-08-24 13:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship (Men) POOL B (National Mens) | Match Report(s)

Netherlands 0 v 3 Spain HT 0-1 | 2009-08-24 19:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship (Men) POOL B (National Mens) | Match Report(s)

Euro Championship Results Day 2

Sun, 23 Aug 2009 08:48:47 -0000

Netherlands ladies walked into the semi finals today with a game to spare after crushing England 5-0

Meanwhile Germany and England both won their opening matches in the men's competition.

Women's Results

Netherlands 5 v 0 England HT 2-0 | 2009-08-23 13:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Pool A (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Azerbaijan 1 v 1 Russia HT 0-0 | 2009-08-23 17:00
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Pool A (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Ireland 0 v 0 Scotland HT 0-0 | 2009-08-23 09:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Pool B (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Ireland produced a vastly improved performance against Scotland to draw 0-0 in their second game of the EuroHockey Nations Championships to keep alive an outside chance of reaching the semi-finals and a qualification spot in the 2010 World Cup.

Indeed, Gene Muller felt this was a game where the full three points were left on the pitch as his side pummelled the Scottish goal late on but found the final touch evade their sticks at the key moment.

Indeed, they earned two penalty corners on the final hooter but first Nikki Symmons shot was blocked by the immaculate Abigail Walker and a second effort was squeezed wide by Irish skipper Eimear Cregan.

Like Saturdays loss to Germany, Ireland were slow out of the blocks, conceding sis first half penalty corners, one of which Shirley McCay was required to frantically clear off the line.

They were, however, more tenacious in the tackle with Bridget Cleland leading the defensive line and as the nerves died down, Ireland began to enjoy greater possession, winning three corners.

Two were particularly innovative, opening clear opportunities for Symmons and Cregan but Walker stood firm.

Ireland stepped up a further gear after the break and though Lauren Barr blocked Laura Bartletts goal-bound strike, the Irish dominated proceedings.

Cregan provided a moment of inspiration to burn three tackles and get a shot off while Lisa Jacob guided a volley just the wrong side of the post.

The two late corner chances went a begging, leaving Muller to settle for a point but means Ireland have a shot at reaching the last four if they beat Spain on Tuesday.

I have mixed feelings. I was disappointed in the first half, in the second half it was fantastic. Scotland had a few more chances in the first half but in the second, we were unlucky.

We had three or four opportunities we were unfortunate not to convert. It was a situation that needed a gear shift and the players responded well. The defence really kept us in that game and gave us the opportunity to go for the win.

The result leaves us in contention. In a tournament you often rely on other results. We now rely on the Spain-Germany result to put us in a position to get us into the top four.

Germany 2 v 1 Spain HT 1-1 | 2009-08-23 11:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Pool B (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Men's Results

England 5 v 0 Austria HT 1-0 | 2009-08-23 13:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship (Men) POOL A (National Mens) | Match Report(s)

Germany 3 v 2 Belgium HT 0-1 | 2009-08-23 17:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship (Men) POOL A (National Mens) | Match Report(s)

Euro Championship Results

Sun, 23 Aug 2009 07:08:21 -0000

Netherlands took full advantage of home soil yesterday in the men's and women's EuroHockey championships. The men put 9 past Poland while the ladies went one better and slotted 10 into the Azerbaijan goal.

Women's results

Netherlands 10 v 0 Azerbaijan HT 4-0 | 2009-08-22 13:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Pool A (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

England 4 v 0 Russia HT 3-0 | 2009-08-22 17:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Pool A (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Spain 3 v 1 Scotland HT 2-0 | 2009-08-22 09:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Pool B (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Germany 7 v 0 Ireland HT 5-0 | 2009-08-22 11:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Pool B (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Ireland struggled in their opening EuroHockey Nations Championship game as they lost to reigning champions Germany 7-0 earlier today in Amsterdam.

In the context of Gene Mullers aim of maintaining A division status, the result may ultimately prove immaterial but the manner of defeat may cause him some headaches ahead of tomorrows vital fixture against Scotland.

He said after the game that playing a top side like Germany in peak form was always likely to be a major challenge for his young charges:

It was a difficult assignment playing a German side who have been in a medal match in every major competition for a long time. There was a major quality difference, but not only that, they played very well. We need to recognise that fact once an opposition like that, it becomes a bit of damage control.

It is a bit of a shock to play against a side like this, especially if you have a young team and you have to be aware this is part of the teams education. Its not the end for Irish hockey but a continual building for the future. Disappointed, but you have to take your medicine sometimes.

What we take from the game is that we were able to change, especially our intensity, in the second half. We were too timid in the first half, so our challenge now is to start with that physical intensity against Scotland.

Goal from Anke Kuhn, Natascha Keller and Fanny Rinne gave Germany a 3-0 half-time lead before two well-taken strikes from Maike Stockel and corner strikes from Rinne and Julia Muller completed the scoring.

Ireland improved in the second half, showing more bite in the tackle and won two penalty corners but were unable to make a dent in the deficit.

Muller must now lift his charges quickly for an early start on Sunday against the Scots.

The Scotland game is a critical game for us, it was always going to be. Staying up, thats the premier objective. After that, even a point against Scotland and we may have a chance of playing for a World Cup place against Spain. By the end of tomorrow, the objective is still to be in the tournament.

Men's Results

Netherlands 9 v 0 Poland HT 2-0 | 2009-08-22 15:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship (Men) POOL B (National Mens) | Match Report(s)

Spain 3 v 0 France HT 1-0 | 2009-08-22 19:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship (Men) POOL B (National Mens) | Match Report(s)

EuroHockey League draw made

Sat, 22 Aug 2009 12:26:22 -0000

The draw was made on August 19th for the coming seasons EuroHockey league. with 3 teams in 8 Pools the competition features the best 24 men's club sides from around Europe.

The first series of games will be played over the weekend of October 9th to 11th at a venue yet to be decided and the 2nd batch of first round games will be played two weeks later in Paris.

2 teams from each group then go forward to a 16 team knockout round to be played later in the season.

The groups are as follows

Group A Bloemendaal, Club Alster, Rotweiss Wettingen
Group B Atletic Terassa, Reading, Montrouge
Group C East Grinsted, Amsterdam, AWF Poznan
Group D Rot Weiss Koln, Club Egara HC Bra
Group E Waterloo Ducks, Polo de Barcelona, Dinamo Kazan
Group F St Germain, Beeston HC, KHC Leuven
Group G Pembroke Wanderers, Rotterdam, Kelburne
Group H Grunwald Poznan, Hamburg, Glenanne

Full fixture schedules will be available shortly in our events listings

Edinburgh will host 2011 Golden Oldies

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 03:39:25 -0000

Edinburgh will host the 15th Air New Zealand Golden Oldies World Hockey Festival in 2011, the first time that the event has been staged in Scotland.

The Festival was announced in Scotlands capital today, secured for Edinburgh through a partnership of EventScotland and the City of Edinburgh Council.

The eighty-three year old president of Scotlands LX hockey team, George Black, announced the destination for the 2011 Festival today in Edinburgh along with current Scottish representative, Graham Moodie.

The 2011 Golden Oldies World Hockey Festival will be only the third time that the event has been staged in Great Britain since its inception in 1983, following Bournemouth, England in 1989 and Dublin, Ireland in 1997.

Organisers expect up to 1000 participants from up to 10 countries to travel to Edinburgh.

The 14th Festival will be held in Adelaide, South Australia next month from 20-27 September with organisers Air New Zealand confident of the success
for the 2011 Festival.

We are delighted to stage the 2011 Festival in Edinburgh, which is both a stronghold for the sport and also an outstanding city for Golden Oldies hockey players to enjoy the legendary Fun, Friendship and Fraternity, said Keith Robinson, Air New Zealand Events Manager.

Paul Bush OBE, Chief Operating Officer at EventScotland, said: In 2008 Edinburgh hosted the Golden Oldies World Rugby Festival which was a phenomenal success for the city, attracting rugby fans from around the world. Hosting the World Hockey Festival in 2011 will, without doubt, build upon this success, generating an estimated economic impact of over £1 million for the city of Edinburgh from the participants, spectators, family and friends who will come to enjoy the sport and spend time here in Scotland as tourists. The Festival will also raise awareness of Hockey as a sport which has wide appeal across all age groups and encourage participation from teams based in the UK as well as overseas putting Scotland firmly on the map as a destination for social sporting events as well as competitive ones.

The city of Edinburgh provides an enviable backdrop for any event and the Golden Oldies World Hockey Festival will take place just before the height of the citys festival season to entice attendees to take some time to explore the city, soak up the atmosphere and perhaps travel further in Scotland during their time here.

Lee Cousins, President of Scottish Hockey Union, the organisation responsible for delivering the event, will take on the role of Festival Director.

Scottish Hockey is delighted to be involved in this world class Festival which promotes two very important sides of the sport: the focus on friendship and fraternity and the fact that it is a sport which is accessible to all ages and abilities.

The Festival will be staged at Peffermill, close to the city CBD, which Cousins says is a world class venue which will provide some great play and fantastic facilities.

Securing events like this one for the city of Edinburgh is hugely important in raising the profile of the sport as an inclusive and fun way to keep fit and enjoy the more sociable aspects of competitive sports, said Scottish Olympic representative Graham Moodie.

George Black, 83, said he was delighted that like-minded Golden Oldies will be thronging to Edinburgh in 2011.

Ive been playing hockey for 63 years now and, as president of Scotlands LX Club for players aged 65 and over, I can vouch for the fact that you dont have to be in your twenties to enjoy a game or two. Events like the Golden Oldies Hockey Festival provide a means for people from around the world with a passion for hockey and indeed travel to come together and enjoy a week of sport and socialising and Scotlands LX team will be looking forward to participating in both.

The Golden Oldies World Hockey Festival began in Auckland in 1983 and has been staged on a biennial basis since with Festivals staged in Canada, Australia, England, Fiji, Hong Kong, Ireland, Netherlands and Argentina.

Scots ready for stern test

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 09:02:27 -0000

Scotlands senior women feel prepared and confident for the EuroHockey Nations Championships starting this weekend at Wagener Stadium in Amsterdam after holding their own against world top teams Germany and Spain recently.

Were prepared and confident after a successful build up programme and recent good performances against Spain, who are ranked seventh in the world, and Germany, who are third, said Scotland manager Lynne Dick.

Scotland drew 0-0 and lost 2-0 against a fully fit German squad in Hannover the first weekend in August, following two test matches against Spain in late July where they lost 4-2 and 5-1, with the latter score not reflecting the balance of play.

Given Germany and Spains mentioned world rankings, and Scotlands ranking of 22nd, recent results are promising. But Scotland has their work cut out for them as they not only sit in pool B alongside Spain and Germany at the Championships but also, number 15 in the world, Ireland.

Lynne Dick added: Were pleased with our results, but Germany and Spain are exceptionally good teams and deserve respect-so were certainly not going to get overconfident. Well take lessons from these matches and play our best on the day. The first two matches against Spain and Ireland will be crucial.

Having faced Ireland a total of 128 times with 45 wins, 35 draws and 48 loses, the second match of the tournament should be close. The two Celtic nations historically give each other a tough challenge.

Tough competitors also sit in Pool A, including, world number one, the Netherlands, England, Azerbaijan and Russia. Scotland sit in the underdogs position, but with the top four teams from the event receiving automatic qualification to the World Cup they have plenty to fight for.

Scotlands European campaign pushes back 22nd August against Spain, followed by Ireland on the 23rd, both with a 9:30am start, then Germany on the 25th at 15:30 before cross over matches on the 27th and finals on the 29th.

Match Schedule

Spain 3 v 1 Scotland HT 2-0 | 2009-08-22 09:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Pool B (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Ireland 0 v 0 Scotland HT 0-0 | 2009-08-23 09:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Pool B (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Germany v Scotland 2009-08-25 15:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Pool B (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Ireland set for Amsterdam

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 01:26:14 -0000

Today, Irelands Senior Womens Squad will make the trip to Amsterdam for their EuroHockey Nations Championship campaign which begins this Saturday 22nd August.

We have trained very hard for this tournament. The players and staff have been fantastic especially during the last 3 months of intensive training. The players are all healthy and fit going into the tournament. Commented Coach Gene Muller earlier this morning.

Ireland (15th) will face some of the worlds best in their pool including Germany (3rd), Spain (7th) and Scotland (22nd) with whom they have enjoyed a close rivalry with over the years. The two Celtic Nations have competed against each other 128 times; Ireland has secured 48 wins, 35 draws and endured 45 losses to the Scottish which will mean their second match of the tournament on Sunday 23rd will no doubt be a close affair.

Coach Muller is very much aware of the challenge that lies ahead but is clear about Irelands objectives The first aim is to retain A division status in Europe.

With all the months of training, practice matches and recent internationals Muller has the right to show confidence in his side We are in a very tough pool with Germany, Spain, and Scotland and we will be tested in all of these matches. I am confident that if we perform well, we will stay in the A division. If we are playing well, we can challenge for World Cup qualification by making the semi finals of the Europeans.

Pool A offers no easier competition with The Netherlands (1st), England (8th), Azerbaijan (13th) and Russia (23rd) all vying for semi final spots which will guarantee an automatic qualification to the World Cup as a top four finisher.

Irelands campaign starts this Saturday against Germany, followed by Scotland on Sunday before they take on Spain in their final pool game on Tuesday (25th). The classification and finals will take place on the 27th and 29th August.

Lauren Barr Ballymoney
Emma Clarke Ulster Elks
Bridget Cleland Ballymoney
Lizzie Colvin Loreto
Eimear Cregan (Capt.) Cork Harlequins
Roisin Flinn UCD
Megan Frazer Ballymoney
Mary Goode Bray
Emma Gray Hermes
Michelle Harvey Pegasus
Lisa Jacob UCD
Shirley McCay Ulster Elks
Cathy McKean Loreto
Cliodhna Sargent Cork Harlequins
Alex Speers Pegasus
Emma Smyth Railway Union
Emma Stewart Armagh
Nikki Symmons Loreto

Staff: Gene Muller; Sally Ann Fanagan; Denis Prichard; Karen Coughlin; Rudi Wortmann; Ian McKeown

Match Schedule

Germany 7 v 0 Ireland HT 5-0 | 2009-08-22 11:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Pool B (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Ireland 0 v 0 Scotland HT 0-0 | 2009-08-23 09:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Pool B (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Ireland v Spain 2009-08-25 13:30
No Venue | Euro Nations Championship Women Pool B (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Netherlands win Junior World Cup

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 08:07:52 -0000

Netherlands U21 3 v 0 Argentina U21 HT 0-0 | 2009-08-16 15:30
No Venue | BDO Women's Junior World Cup Finals Day (National U21 Ladies) | Match Report(s)

The Netherlands and Argentina met for the last match of the tournament. This time, the stakes were much higher. In a hard fought game, the two teams gave it their all in the field.

Just like the bronze medal game, the first half was score-less and both teams had equal opportunities, but each team only had one corner. Going into the second half, the result of the game was still up in the air.

It wasnt until the 50th minute of play that #18 Willemijn Bos scored the first goal. The orange and green fans went wild and continued their Go Holland chants. Argentina had a series of corners following Boss goal, but goalkeeper, Mirte van der Vliet blocked all their shots.

In the 61st minute the Netherlands were awarded another penalty corner and #12 Caia van Maasakker made her famous drag flick shot into the left corner of the net. Five minutes later, the Dutch were awarded a second corner and Maasakker repeated the goal, making the final score of the game 3-0. The time ran out and fans erupted in cheers as the Netherlands became the 2009 BDO Junior Womens World Cup Champions!

Korea U21 2 v 1 England U21 HT 0-0 | 2009-08-16 13:00
No Venue | BDO Women's Junior World Cup Finals Day (National U21 Ladies) | Match Report(s)

The Battle for the Bronze began as Korea and England hit the field on the last day of the tournament. It was a tough match, but Korea took advantage of opportunities and got themselves 3rd place in the BDO World Cup with a score of 2-1 against England.

Neither teams could convert shots or corners and the first half remained score-less. The second half brought a lot of back and forth action and Korea was the first to capitalize off a corner when #3 Seul Ki Cheon scored in the 41st minute.

England was looking to even the score and in the 52nd minute, #3 Jenny Hall also scored off a penalty corner, tying the score 1-1. With 12 minutes left, England is dominating, but it is Koreas #5 Kim Dayoung who scores in the 58th minute with a beautiful drag flick into the net.

The game continued and both teams created perfect opportunities, but the final score remained the same. The clock ran down and as the Korean girls hugged with happiness, England fell to their knees on the field. Korea will walk away with the Bronze medal in the BDO World Cup and England takes fourth.

Australia Youth 5 v 2 Germany U21 HT 3-1 | 2009-08-16 10:30
No Venue | BDO Women's Junior World Cup Finals Day (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

On the last day of the 2009 BDO Junior World Cup, Australia and Germany played for 5th and 6th place. The beginning of the match was evenly played. Kate Jenner scored for Australia in the 13th minute, off their first penalty corner of the match. For the rest of the first half, Australia dominated possession of the ball and went up 2-0 courtesy of a Jill Dwyer penalty corner goal in the 28th minute. Continuing their attacking pressure, Australia made it 3-0 with a field goal by #11 Emily Hurtz in the 31st minute. After starting out the half a bit sluggish, Germanys #25 Celine Wilde scored in the 34th minute; ending the half with Australia ahead of Germany 3-1.

In the second half, Germany picked up speed and #24 Eva Frank scored in the 47th minute to make it 3-2. Australia, however, would not see their lead diminish and went up 4-2 a minute later on another goal by Jill Dwyer. In the 56th minute, Emily Hurtz scored her second goal of the match to increase Australias lead over Germany to 5-2. Germany kept up the pressure, but fell to Australia 2-5. Thus, Australia finished the BDO Junior World Cup in fifth and Germany in sixth.

Reports courtesy of world hockey

Junior Cup Finals Classification RESULTS -

Sun, 16 Aug 2009 09:34:48 -0000

Spain U21 2 v 2 France U21 HT 0-1 | Flicks 5-3 | 2009-08-15 09:00
No Venue | BDO Women's Junior World Cup Finals Day (National U21 Ladies) | Match Report(s)

Chile U21 0 v 4 South Africa U21 HT 0-2 | 2009-08-15 11:30
No Venue | BDO Women's Junior World Cup Finals Day (National U21 Ladies) | Match Report(s)

India Youth 2 v 0 New Zealand U21 HT 1-0 | 2009-08-15 14:00
No Venue | BDO Women's Junior World Cup Finals Day (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

USA Youth 2 v 8 China U21 HT 0-3 | 2009-08-15 16:30
No Venue | BDO Women's Junior World Cup Finals Day (National Ladies) | Match Report(s)

New Zealand take series unbeaten

Sun, 16 Aug 2009 08:21:59 -0000

New Zealand 2 v 1 Malaysia 2009-08-15 14:00
No Venue | Friendly (National Mens) | Match Report(s)

The Black Sticks concluded the five test series against Malaysia with a 2 - 1 win Taupo today.

New Zealand has taken out the series with hreewins and two draws.

Hayden Shaw was first on the score board with a drag flick penalty corner in the 20th minute.

Phil Burrows took the keeper on one one one for the second NZ goal and Malaysia pulled one back in the latter stages of the first half through a field goal through Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin Tengku Abd Jalil.

Ryan Archibland made a superb stick save on an attacking Malaysian penalty corner in the second half to keep the Black Sticks in the lead.

The New Zealanders came away with the win but probably should have converted more chances.

Standouts were Casey Henwood in the midfield, defenders Hayden Shaw, Dean Couzins and Blair Hopping and Nick Haig up front.

Junior World Cup semi finals RESULTS

Sat, 15 Aug 2009 06:53:14 -0000

Netherlands U21 5 v 0 Korea U21 HT 2-0 | 2009-08-14 13:30
No Venue | BDO Women's Junior World Cup Finals Day (National U21 Ladies) | Match Report(s)

The match between two-time defending BDO Junior World Cup champions, Korea, and the Netherlands (who won in 1997) began as expected: a hard fought back and forth battle. The Netherlands slightly controlled the pace of the first half, but both teams had a difficult time generating any kind of attack. Finally, in the 24th minute the Netherlands was awarded the first penalty corner of the match; Caia van Maasakker delivered and gave the Netherlands a 1-0 lead over Korea. The Netherlands went up 2-0 on a Kelly Jonker hard blast into the left corner in the 34th minute of play. In the second half of the match, the Netherlands asserted their dominance in 38th minute from another van Maasakker drag flick off a penalty corner. Ahead 3-0, the Netherlands maintained their control of the match and barely allowed Korea to get into their attacking side of the pitch. In the 45th minute, a Willemijin Willemse field goal increased the Netherlands lead to 4-0, which caused Korean players to bend over in dismay. The Netherlands were not done scoring, however, and won the match 5-0 off a field goal by Kitty van Male in the 63rd minute. With their dominating win over Korea, the Netherlands advanced fairly easily to the championship match of the BDO Junior World Cup.

England U21 0 v 0 Argentina U21 HT 0-0 | ET 0-1 | 2009-08-14 16:00
No Venue | BDO Women's Junior World Cup Finals Day (National U21 Ladies) | Match Report(s)

The last match on Friday afternoon was anything but boring. Argentina and England met to compete for a spot in the championships. The game went into extra time and ended with a 1-0 win for Argentina.

Argentina was on the attack for most of the game, but they werent able to get past Englands defense or Goalkeeper, Gemma Ible and nothing went in the goal. The second half was similar as both teams refused to let anything in. Corners were awarded on both sides but the clock ran down and the score remained 0-0, forcing the game into 7 minutes of extra time where the first goal proclaims the winner.

Argentina dominated the first overtime and had many shots on goal, but the England defenders werent willing to budge. The second seven minutes were the same and Ible had some terrific saves, but Argentina was bound to penetrate. With one minute remaining, #9 Carla Dupuy flicked it in the net and won her team a spot in the Championships against Netherlands.

Reports courtesy of world hockey

New Zealand stay unbeaten

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 02:45:53 -0000

New Zealand 2 v 2 Malaysia 2009-08-12 18:30
No Venue | Friendly (National Mens) | Match Report(s)

The Black Sticks scored first two seven minutes into the match with an Andy Hayward penalty corner drag flick variation.

Several minutes later Malaysia later counter attacked and scored from the third of three consecutive penalty corners. They followed with a field goal putting NZ on the back foot until Phil Burrows pulled one back before half time.

In the second half no major chances presented either side, although NZ went close twice on corners with Petherick going over top and several Hayden Shaw attempts saved. Kyle Pontifex also did well in goal thwarting a couple of good attempts.

For the Black Sticks Ryan Archibald was a class above working his way out of tight spots, dirbbling well and giving great passes that should have resulted in more.

The final match of the series is in Taupo on Sunday. New Zealand lead with two wins and a two draws.

New Zealand win 3rd test

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 09:06:04 -0000

New Zealand 3 v 0 Malaysia 2009-08-12 18:30
No Venue | Friendly (National Mens) | Match Report(s)

The Black Sticks Men downed Malaysia 3- 0 tonight in Napier in the third test of their five test preparation for the Oceania Cup in 10 days time.

Simon Child opened the scoring with a well taken field goal in the 14th minute.

New Zealand's next goal did not come until the second half when Hayden Shaw nailed a penalty corner drag flick into the left hand corner.

The Black Sticks' final goal came with seven minutes to go when local boy Shea McAleese finished off some nice buildup work by Ryan Archibald and Nick Haig.

Overall the New Zealanders more patient on the ball than the Malaysians who showed pace but less control than the Black Sticks, each looking to cement his place in the team for the Oceania Cup in Invercargill from 25 August. Standouts included Kyle Pontifex, Blair Hopping and Simon Child.

The next test is in Napier again, tomorrow night.